Imperial College London and W12 Together Spread Festive Cheer for Care Leavers

Student volunteers and W12 Together

Imperial’s Community Engagement Team and Imperial Business School partnered with W12 Together to celebrate Christmas with local care leavers

Over the festive break, Imperial’s Community Engagement Team and Imperial Business School partnered with W12 Together - a non-profit organisation supporting the White City community - to create a Christmas Day celebration that embodied the spirit of the season.

“This initiative wasn’t just about dinner; it was about capturing the very soul of the Festive season - a time to spread joy, create cherished memories, and remind one another that no one should feel forgotten during the holidays” Imperial Business School student volunteer

Focusing on 18 to 25-year-old care leavers, the Christmas Day Lunch initiative was a heart-warming collaboration that brought joy and connection to those who might otherwise have spent the holiday alone.

Under the theme "No care leaver should be alone on Christmas Day", W12 Together and Imperial student volunteers worked for two days to prepare a day of festive cheer. For the students, many of whom were unable to travel home themselves during the holiday period, the initiative offered an opportunity to connect with others in the local community. Students assembled personalised gift baskets, helped decorate the venue with Christmassy touches and planned a variety of engaging activities. The highlight of the day for many was the Christmas lunch!

“This partnership between Imperial and W12 Together is a perfect example of how institutions and local communities can come together to create meaningful, lasting impact. It was truly inspiring to see our students connecting with care leavers and bringing warmth and happiness to their Christmas Day.” - Farial Missi, Senior Community Partnerships and Engagement Manager at Imperial

“This initiative reminded us of the transformative power of community and connection. It was a privilege to be part of an event that not only brought joy to care leavers but also strengthened our own sense of purpose and belonging”. - Mohammed Zaid Abid Dalla, Vice President of Societal Engagement for the Dean’s Student Advisory Council (DSAC) at Imperial Business School

The event was made possible thanks to the shared collaboration of W12 Together, a local organisation driven by the belief that community is stronger when everyone comes together, alongside Imperial’s Community Engagement Team, Imperial Business School, Ed City, and WEST Youth Zone. Together, they demonstrated the power of collaboration in creating meaningful experiences that make a lasting impact.

“W12 Together was incredibly appreciative of the support from the whole W12 community. The collaboration with Imperial volunteers was invaluable in creating an unforgettable day for everyone involved. We hope to continue this partnership in the future.” Jenny Chigwende Chair of W12 Together

For the care leavers, the day was more than a meal - it was a celebration of togetherness and belonging. For the volunteers, it was a poignant reminder of the importance of giving back and the joy that comes from making a difference in someone’s life.

If you would like to get involved in future events and opportunities with the White City community, email Imperial’s Community Engagement Team at whitecity.community @imperial.ac.uk