Samuel Gibson, who works for RCR Energy, will be one of three speakers at BNI Wine Country’s fundraiser on 26 August in Hastings. He will tell his inspirational story of overcoming the challenge of a rare bone disorder that makes his bones very brittle. Samuel is confined to a wheelchair and because he found this constrictive, he invented one that is now distributed internationally. He will be joined by Murray Douglas (former Chairman of the HB Chamber of Commerce) and Graham Southwell (National Director of BNI New Zealand) at a breakfast fundraising event for Cranford Hospice.
Samuel is excited about the opportunity to tell his story at this event in particular. “As a local boy the breakfast will be a great chance for me to reconnect with businesspeople who may have not heard my story,” he says. “I’ve found that my story really resonates with small business owners. I believe in finding your passion and doing everything you can to realise your goals in relation to this. Business owners are often in the same boat; working hard to overcome challenges and realise their hopes and dreams.”
Kerry McIntyre, the Event Coordinator for BNI Wine Country, says all three speakers will provide motivating speeches for business people that attend. “$14 of the ticket price goes directly to Cranford Hospice,” says Kerry, “so it’s a fantastic opportunity to hear these speakers and give back to a great cause. As well as the breakfast and speeches we will be offering spot prizes and raffles,” he continues. “For those looking to network with local businesses and become involved in a fun experience that makes a difference in the community, this is a not to be missed event.”
Helen Blaxland, GM for Cranford Hospice, is looking forward to the event which will be attended by staff from the hospice. “BNI and the hospice share values and ideals of people connecting with people and developing relationships based on trust,” Helen says. “BNI’s philosophy is about ‘giver’s gain’ and growing successful businesses within the community they operate in. We are reliant on the business community to support us and we in turn support and strengthen it. Many business people have had a personal experience with Hospice and events like this are their way of giving back.”
Details on the event
The breakfast will be held 26th August 2014 at Off the Track Restaurant, Havelock Road, Hastings. 6.45am – breakfast and networking, presentations 7.15am and completed by 8.45am. Tickets for the hospice fundraiser are $30.00 and can be purchased by contacting Kerry McIntyre on 0274 424 241.
