Newham All Star Sports Academy is celebrating its 20th birthday with an event aimed at generating funds to support its east London operation
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tell me about NASSA’s Next Generation…
Newham All Star Sports Academy (NASSA) is set to host its first networking and fundraising dinner – NASSA’s Next Generation – at Brick Lane Music Hall in Royal Docks this summer.
what is NASSA?
For 20 years the charity has been an engine of social mobility for young people in east London.
Engaging them through basketball, it supports their education and training, instilling discipline and ambition in some of the most deprived areas in the capital.
Its Carry A Basketball Not A Blade campaign has reached more than 100,000 young people, teaching them about the dangers of knife crime and working in partnership with the Metropolitan Police to tackle gang culture.
In short, NASSA saves young people’s lives and enriches them.
>> Natasha Hart MBE, NASSA CEO and founder, started the charity in 2005 after taking her two sons to a Newham park to teach them basketball.
Soon she was surrounded by young people keen to try the sport, which inspired the charity’s creation.
Natasha said: “Once you become part of the NASSA family, that’s for life.
“What started in 2005 as a way for young people to get outside and keep fit has grown into a bigger mission, working with the community to tackle violence and gang culture through sport and education.
“It’s incredibly moving to hear about the difference we’ve made in people’s lives. Now we want to reach even further.
“It’s amazing that we’re able to host this networking and fundraising dinner in our 20th year to help us continue that work.
“We’re so grateful for the support we’ve had over the years and would love you to join us on June 18, 2025.”
why NASSA’s Next Generation?
To continue in its work and expand its operations, NASSA needs to raise funds and is always looking for new organisations and individuals to partner with.
In celebration of its 20th anniversary, it has created an event aimed at bringing its supporters together with those who would like to get involved to network, to introduce the charity’s ongoing work to them and mark its achievements.
what will happen?
NASSA’s Next Generation is set to take place at Brick Lane Music Hall in Royal Docks on June 18, 2025, from 6pm-midnight.
The evening will start with a drinks reception with plenty of time for networking.
This will be followed by a three-course dinner and a music hall show, with further opportunity to socialise after the curtain falls.
who will be there?
The evening will be hosted by NASSA with support from the charity’s patron, Sir Stephen Timms MP, minister for social security and disability.
The event will also be attended by senior management from long-time NASSA supporters Excel London, Tate&Lyle Sugars, London City Airport and Novotel London Excel as well as the Royal Docks Team and local businesses.
>> Excel London has long been a supporter of NASSA and its work.
CEO Jeremy Rees has brought local organisations together in an advisory capacity to help guide the charity as it continues to grow and develop, tackling some of the toughest issues in society.
Jeremy said: “What Natasha and the team have done over the course of two decades is incredible and deserves our attention and backing.
“This is an organisation that started with just £20 in its bank account and has now reached more than 100,000 young people.
“The NASSA’s Next Generation networking and fundraising dinner is all about how we can work together as businesses, organisations and individuals to help it continue these vital efforts and reach the next 100,000.
“The event will be a real celebration of NASSA – but we can’t do this alone.
“Support us on June 18 and we can do even more.”
how can I get involved?
Tickets to the event are now on public sale, priced at £220pp with all proceeds going to NASSA.
A small number of full tables (12 seats) and half tables, priced at £200pp are available too.
In addition to the show, a raffle will be held on the evening for exclusive prizes from the likes of Kricket, iFLY London, Arc Community Sauna, Emilia’s Crafted Pasta and Skuna.
how do I book tickets?
Can email info@wharf-life.com or visit the charity’s website.
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