Team talks: Bamboo’s Conán puts himself through the wringer for good causes

Here at Bamboo, we’re passionate about fundraising and making a difference. That’s why we do what we do.

But we don’t just talk the talk. In addition to supporting fundraising events as a team, we all participate in various fundraising events outside work.

In this post, we speak to Recruitment Consultant, Conán, about his latest fundraising venture.

What was the event?  

It was a white-collar boxing event.

Did you organise it yourself?

No. The event was set up and run by a gym (White Collar Boxing), on Old Kent Rd in SE London. Scott Borthwick, a legend in the boxing world organised it. He put on an incredible show.

Why boxing?

I’ve always loved boxing. I started it when I was young, but field sports took over during my teens. When I moved to London, I was out every weekend, had nothing to aim toward, and wasn’t feeling great in myself. I was about to start a new job and felt I needed something to keep me focused and off the booze on the weekends.

One day, I was browsing Facebook and saw an advert for the event. The rest is history…

Which cause did you raise money for?

MIND, CALM & Pieta (an Irish charity). They’re all mental health charities. It’s such an important cause to raise money for, as you’re helping someone get the help they need. And that help could prevent someone from committing suicide.

The town I grew up in had the highest suicide rate per capita in Europe at one time. I’ve lost plenty of friends and know people who have lost family members to it. So I knew I wanted to focus on mental health charities.

Did you train for the event or wing it?

I trained intensely 3-4 times a week for 10 weeks ahead of the events, which took place at Troxy, East London, on 5th November 2021 & 18th November 2022 respectively.

The training was great – it involved running, core work, pad work & sparring.  There were a few coaches on hand at each session to help me get fit and in peak condition for the events.

Can you give us a rundown of what happened 

Both fights were incredible. I walked out with the Irish flag draped around me to the sound of 1,500 people screaming and cheering, which was incredible. Both fights went the distance. There were 3 rounds, lasting 2 minutes each.

Thankfully, I emerged from both without any injuries!

Did you win? 

Yes! I came up against 2 fantastic opponents who gave it their all, but I managed to get the win both times.

How did you raise money?

I raised money through my JustGiving page which I promoted on social media, and through my family and friends.

How much did you raise?

I raised c. £500 for each charity.

Are you planning anymore fundraising events?

Not at the moment. However, I may well do another event in 2024… watch this space!