The Pink Ribbon Gala Ball
The incredible Pink Ribbon Foundation .
Under Globe Theatre | 2nd October https://underglobe.co.uk
Bringing People Together for a Cause That Matters
That spirit of unity was alive and shining at this year’s PINKLondon gala hosted by the Pink Ribbon Foundation and held on Thursday 2nd October at the magnificent Underglobe on the banks of the River Thames. The evening sparkled with generosity, elegance, and heartfelt emotion — a true celebration of hope and humanity.
PINKLondon2025, held in association with Filippo ioco, celebrated a double milestone this year — marking the 25th anniversary of the Pink Ribbon Foundation and the 11th PINKLondon event in collaboration with Filippo ioco and iocoBenefits.
At the heart of it all was Lisa Allen, the powerhouse behind the Pink Ribbon Foundation. Through her tireless work, Lisa continues to inspire countless people to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer charities across the UK.
The Power of Art and Connection
The magic of the evening began long before the first champagne cork was popped. Through my mutual connections, Lisa met Anne-Marie Bickerton, a self-taught artist and photographer whose work radiates empathy and creative passion.
Anne-Marie had previously curated a moving exhibition featuring Dr Pam Spurr, the much-loved psychologist and media personality. During that show, Dr Spurr auctioned one of her own paintings to support breast cancer charities — an inspiring gesture that beautifully captured the evening’s theme of giving through art.
Also lending her talents was the artist Piluca, a bold and brilliant street artist whose colourful murals speak of empowerment, identity, and strength. Her creative energy lit up the exhibition and later became an integral part of the Pink Ribbon story.
Ambassadors of Art and Strength
On that glittering October night, Anne-Marie Bickerton and Piluca Camino Alcon were officially named Ambassadors for the Pink Ribbon Foundation. Their shared belief that “art doesn’t just heal — it educates” has driven remarkable projects that use creativity to inspire awareness.
Among them is the groundbreaking exhibition “BUSTOUT”, featuring one hundred artistic photographs celebrating women’s bodies in all their diversity. Displayed at the Firepit Gallery, the show — curated by Anne-Marie and Piluca — was as provocative as it was empowering, challenging taboos and encouraging conversations about self-acceptance, self-checking, and health.
Anne-Marie’s Fight — In and Out of the Ring
For Anne-Marie, 2025 has been a year of courage and change. Alongside her art, she’s taken up boxing — a decision born from both love and determination. Her 15-year-old son Sam, who lives with autism and had been the target of bullying, joined a local boxing class to build confidence. Wanting to support him and lead by example, Anne-Marie laced up her own gloves.
Months of hard training led to an extraordinary moment: a charity boxing match at The Troxy, where Anne-Marie stepped into the ring to raise funds and awareness for autism and mental health causes. Her bravery resonated deeply within the Pink Ribbon community — a powerful reminder that strength can take many forms.
The Great Gatsby Glamour
This year’s PINKLondon gala theme was pure vintage glamour — The Great Gatsby. Guests dazzled in sequins, pearls, and feathers, stepping into a scene straight out of the roaring 1920s. The historic Underglobe was transformed into a world of champagne bubbles, jazz melodies, and pink-tinted lights.
Leading the celebrations, Lisa Allen made a stunning entrance, embodying the glamour and grace of the era. Her passion and dedication shone as she welcomed guests, thanked supporters, and reminded everyone why they were there — to celebrate hope, honour survivors, and fund life-changing work.
In a moment of light-hearted fun, a spectacular pink cake featuring Lisa’s own face was auctioned for charity — lovingly created by Keith Scovell (aka Kakesby Keith), who outdid himself with a confection as stylish as its inspiration.
Stars, Ambassadors, and Friends
The guest list sparkled with Pink Ribbon’s brightest stars and supporters. Among them were:
- Danielle Mason, actress and model, whose warmth and advocacy continue to inspire
- Haley Sparkles, television presenter and long-time supporter of women’s health
- Sally Morgan, the nation’s favourite psychic medium, who brought humour and heart to the night
- Donna Preston, actress, writer, and comedian best known for her role as Despair in Netflix’s The Sandman, as well as The Hitman’s Bodyguard, Hard Cell, and Hey Tracey!
- Shaun Dooley, actor and narrator known for his versatile roles in It’s a Sin, Gentleman Jack, Broadchurch, The Witcher, and Changing Ends — the autobiographical comedy about Alan Carr’s childhood
- Lorraine Stanley, actress best known for her long-running role as Karen Taylor in EastEnders, as well as for London to Brighton, Call the Midwife, and Made in Dagenham
- Kelly Reeves, the talented photographer whose stunning shots of the evening appear throughout this feature
Also honoured were Juliette Morrison and her family — among Pink Ribbon’s most proactive ambassadors — for their ongoing dedication and tireless fundraising. Their recognition was one of the evening’s most touching moments.
Adding to the sense of family and continuity was the appearance of Jacqueline Abbott, Lisa’s remarkable mother, who became an ambassador last year. Her warmth and quiet strength embody everything the charity stands for.
Entertainment with Heart and Sparkle
The Brooks & Baker entertainment was as dazzling as the guests. Gatsby-style performers twirled across the stage, while guests joined in a lively Charleston dance class — feathers flying and laughter filling the room.
The event also featured fantastic entertainment from the talented West End Kids — invited back after a wonderful performance at PINKLondon2024 — along with a special performance by singer Russell Jones, who travelled all the way from Wales to join the celebration and support the cause.
Then came the show-stopper: an electrifying performance by Oulalahoop, whose energy and charisma set the crowd alight. It was impossible not to be swept up in the rhythm, as applause echoed around the theatre.
The evening’s raffle was led by Shaun Dooley, the acclaimed actor and patron of Pink Ribbon, known for his role in It’s a Sin. His heartfelt words about compassion and community struck a chord with every guest, reminding all present that the true purpose of the evening went far beyond glamour.
A Night of Unity and Friendship
Also in attendance was Dr Anna Kennedy OBE, renowned autism campaigner and founder of the charity Anna Kennedy Online. She attended in support of her friend, author Samantha Lee Howe, adding another layer of solidarity to the night — one that bridged communities and causes.
That sense of shared purpose defined the entire event. Whether through art, performance, or simple acts of kindness, the gala proved that compassion can connect worlds.
The Heart Behind the Glamour
As the final song faded and glasses clinked in a final toast, there was a sense that something truly special had happened. The PINKLondon2025 gala wasn’t just another glamorous event — it was a statement of unity, creativity, and love.
Lisa Allen’s closing words summed up the evening perfectly:
“Pink Ribbon isn’t just about raising funds — it’s about raising each other up.”
And that’s exactly what she did.
From dazzling performances to heartfelt moments, from laughter to tears of joy, the night was a triumph. PINKLondon2025 reminded everyone that when passion meets purpose, miracles truly happen.
Photo Credits
Photography: Kelly Reeves and Brett Cove
Cake: Keith Scovell
With special thanks to Lisa Allen, Anne-Marie Bickerton, Piluca, and all the Pink Ribbon ambassadors and supporters who made the evening unforgettable
https://www.pinkribbonfoundation.org.uk
2Shades Magazine 