Meeting Needs Welcomes New Trustees to Enhance Charity Impact

Meeting Needs, a foundation that supports small charities through the events industry, has added three new trustees to its board. These changes come as four longtime members step down following a combined 20 years of service. The new trustees—Bernice Heard of Hyatt Hotels, Dan Bardgett of XSEM, and Mags Shaw of Mags Worldwide—bring deep experience and strong sector ties.

Experienced leaders transition as fresh talent steps in

The departure of Shonali Rodrigues, Matt Curran, Karen Small, and Hannah Kelly marks a shift in leadership. Their work helped drive the charity’s mission across the UK and beyond. The board now turns to fresh ideas from new members who reflect today’s event industry. This change keeps the charity’s strategy aligned with modern fundraising goals

Each new trustee adds unique value to the board

Mags Shaw, with over 25 years in international incentive travel, offers a strong connection to the global event space. She understands how destination partnerships fuel giving. Bernice Heard, serving as a senior leader at Hyatt, adds insight from the hotel and hospitality world. Her role supports the charity’s donor engagement and brand visibility. Dan Bardgett, Managing Director of XSEM, has already supported Meeting Needs by raising funds in annual charity runs. His hands-on involvement now becomes a long-term commitment

Direct impact seen in UK food security program

The board recently approved a new initiative with Community Grub Hub in Aldershot. Over the next six months, 80 families per week will receive food donations sourced from Fareshare. This project reduces hunger while rescuing over 500kg of food weekly from landfill. The idea was championed by Noella Milas of Blue Line Events, who volunteers at the site. This effort shows how small partnerships can create real-world outcomes

New classroom investment boosts youth training in Uganda

Internationally, the board funded a vocational classroom at Uphill Junior School in Uganda. The final grant of £7,193 allowed construction to begin on a space for knitting, joinery, and sewing education. The program is led by The Uphill Trust, a Scottish nonprofit that operates without overhead. The new space includes a covered veranda for flexible use. It will give students hands-on training and boost job readiness across the community

Meeting Needs sets a global example for charity leadership

This transition signals ongoing strength in the charity’s mission. By combining volunteer energy with industry support, Meeting Needs delivers high-impact projects to local causes. Event professionals can join by sponsoring a project, donating time, or contributing funds. For those ready to take action, contact mmann@meetingneeds.org.uk to support the Meeting Needs charity board Just Now News.