Sunday 23rd March 2025: 10.00am

Last night, I had the pleasure of attending the Salford Ceremonial Mayor’s Charity Ball at the Salford Community Stadium (formerly the AJ Bell Stadium where, interestingly my Bollywood Guinness World Record Breaking Company, Ri Ri’s Dance Academy, provided Bollywood dance entertainment for a corporate event many years ago. So, it was a joy to be back!). I was invited by Jackie Njoroge, Chief Strategy and Data Officer, and Vicky Halliwell, Interim PVC Dean of the School of Health and Social, who were hosting a table on behalf of the University of Salford. They extended a warm invitation to me and a guest, and I was delighted to bring my lovely Mum along for the evening. 🌟

The ball was a spectacular event, featuring a drinks reception, a three-course meal, live entertainment, as well as a raffle and auction. This year, the event raised funds for two wonderful charities: Royal Naval Association – City of Salford and St Ann’s Hospice – Little Hulton. The colour theme of the evening was blue and yellow, adding a vibrant touch to the festivities. 💙💛

Royal Naval Association – City of Salford – The Royal Naval Association provides those with a link to the Royal Navy access to a life-long community of like-minded and supportive individuals. Our community provides companionship, resilience, comradeship and unity to anyone and everyone with a Naval story, supporting them through life’s highs and lows. The RNA in Pendleton is a family of current and former Naval Service personnel, and other ex-service personnel, relatives and supporters of our country’s Armed Forces. The RNA can offer help with getting support with anything from mobility issues, to advice on new technologies and getting online, to finding a community or social support system locally. Whatever the challenge, they are there to offer a helping hand in finding ways of making things easier for their members, whether they are still serving, working on civvy street or retired. Whether catching up with friends at their regular social events, fundraising, advising on welfare and employment matters or just providing an arm around the shoulder, their natural willingness to help others stems from the tradition and camaraderie that life in the Royal Navy instils. Membership is open to all serving or retired members of the Armed Forces and their family, friends, and supporters.

St Ann’s Hospice – Little Hulton This independent charity provides supportive and specialist palliative care services to people over the age of 18 from across Greater Manchester. It enables individuals with a life-limiting illness, their families, and carers to maximise the quality of their lives. Care is given free of charge and is regulated by the Quality Care Commission. Provision includes in-patient, home care, day therapy, bereavement services and community services. The charity also provides educational training for other health professionals.

As vegetarians, my Mum and I were thrilled that the event catered to vegetarian and vegan food options, ensuring we had a delightful dining experience. The highlight of the evening for me was watching my Mum win in the raffle! She chose a Cowshed hamper – a perfect treat for Mother’s Day coming up. 🎁

Vicky shared that her favourite part of the evening was hearing my Mum’s laugh, which is enough to put a smile on anyone’s face. 😊 We had a great time dancing, and the University of Salford table 19 was a winning table with four raffle prizes for our table! 🏆The event included entertainment by the Mississippi Soulman, and Podilya Ukrainian Dance Ensemble with a disco and DJ and auction.

I am incredibly grateful to the University of Salford for this wonderful invitation. It was an incredible evening, and I am already looking forward to my next event! 🎉

💗Thank you, Salford University, for making this night so memorable! 🌸🙏🏼

Lots of love,