A Night Where Love Took the Stage
On February 8th, 2025, the hall at Whitgift School was alive with energy, colour, and hope.
Over 170 young performers from across London took to the stage at our ninth annual Love Not Hate event — a night filled with music, dance, art, and the unmistakable power of community.
What began nine years ago as a small local initiative has grown into a movement — one that celebrates unity, belonging, and the belief that every young person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
This year’s event was more than a showcase of talent; it was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people are given the platform, support, and belief to shine.
In Partnership with The Phoenix Way
We are honoured that The Phoenix Way UK featured our event in their recent article “Why We Fund Differently.”
Their words captured the heart of what we stand for — trust, collaboration, and shared purpose.
For the past 10 months, The Phoenix Way has walked alongside us, offering not just funding but friendship. They’ve taken the time to listen deeply, understand local challenges, and believe in community-led change.
From dementia cafés that connect generations to youth projects that build confidence and resilience, their trust-based support has helped us strengthen the foundations of care and connection in Croydon.
The Heart of the Evening
Throughout the night, stories came to life through performance. Dancers, singers, and musicians shared their journeys of identity, strength, and joy.
One young performer summed it up perfectly:
“I like dancing because it helps me get stronger. It builds my confidence. It’s just really fun.”
Each performance was more than entertainment — it was expression, healing, and visibility.
Students from Croydon, Lambeth, and beyond took part, showing that this work transcends borough boundaries and brings people together through creativity.
Bridging Generations
The beauty of Love Not Hate lies in its intergenerational spirit.
Through our dementia cafés and volunteer programmes, young people regularly connect with elders, sharing stories, laughter, and compassion.
Volunteer Tessa put it beautifully:
“We’re connecting the generations together — it’s really important.”
This cross-generational connection is at the heart of mental wellbeing and community resilience — reminding us that care isn’t a one-way street, but a shared journey.
Community Voices of Hope
We were joined by parents, civic leaders, and mentors who spoke with deep conviction.
Barrister Stephen Akinsanya highlighted the need to invest early in youth safety, while Civic Mayor Kola Agboola reminded us that opportunity, not background, levels the playing field.
Their words echoed what the event itself demonstrated — that when we come together in unity and purpose, we create safer, stronger communities.
With Gratitude to Our Partners
We are deeply thankful to all those who made this event possible —
our funders, sponsors, and supporters:
Wades Group, Young London Today, Roland Brothers Foundation, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, London Biggin Hill Airport, and our long-standing partner The Phoenix Way.
Your belief in our mission helps young people and families thrive and ensures that Love Not Hate continues to grow as a force for good.
Funding with Love: A Shared Vision
At MSHF, we believe that love is action.
We share The Phoenix Way’s conviction that trust-based funding isn’t soft — it’s strategic.
When communities are trusted and empowered, they build lasting solutions rooted in empathy, equality, and hope.
Our partnership proves that love, not bureaucracy, is what drives real, sustainable change.
Love Not Hate isn’t just a theme — it’s a strategy. It’s how we choose to show up for one another, with care, courage, and commitment.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to building a Croydon — and a world — where love triumphs over hate, and community is the foundation of wellbeing.
To everyone who performed, volunteered, or supported us — thank you.
Together, we’re proving that when we lead with love, change follows.
Join the Movement
Be part of Love Not Hate 2026 and our ongoing community programmes.
- Volunteer with us → msfoundations.co.uk/join-us/
- Donate → msfoundations.co.uk/support-us
