Make-A-Wish International Summit Hosted at The Savoy Hotel

The Savoy Hotel in London hosted the inaugural Make-A-Wish International charity summit, bringing together senior corporate executives, philanthropy partners, and hospitality leaders for the Leadership for Impact Summit held in celebration of World Wish Day.

The event focused on strengthening purpose-driven partnerships and promoting long-term social impact initiatives that support children living with critical illnesses worldwide. Hosted at the iconic Savoy Hotel, the summit highlighted the growing role of businesses and hospitality brands in driving meaningful charitable collaborations.

Founded in 1980, Make-A-Wish International has become one of the world’s leading wish-granting organisations, fulfilling more than 650,000 wishes across nearly 50 countries. The London summit aimed to deepen partnerships, encourage innovation, and create stronger engagement between global organisations committed to social responsibility.

The afternoon programme featured a panel discussion moderated by Aliénor Descours de Guernon, Director of Corporate Alliances at Make-A-Wish International. Industry leaders from globally recognised brands shared insights into how businesses can integrate ESG values, digital engagement, and purpose-led marketing into their operations.

Panel speakers included Joss Hastings, Global Vice President of Marketing at The Walt Disney Company, Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1, and Laura Kaye, Global Social Media Director at Booking.com. The discussion explored how authentic partnerships can strengthen community engagement while aligning with business priorities.

One of the most emotional moments of the summit came from Patrick O’Hora, a former Make-A-Wish recipient diagnosed with osteosarcoma as a teenager. Patrick shared how his passion for Formula 1 inspired a behind-the-scenes wish experience with Lewis Hamilton and the Mercedes Formula 1 team during his treatment journey.

Patrick and his father, Darren O’Hora, who also serves as a board member of Make-A-Wish Ireland, reflected on the lasting impact of wish experiences for children and families facing serious illnesses. Their story reinforced the importance of emotional support and meaningful experiences during difficult times.

The event concluded with a networking reception followed by a private “Leaders for Wishes” dinner, allowing attendees to strengthen relationships and discuss future charitable collaborations focused on social impact and community development.

Luciano Manzo, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish International, stated that partnerships with companies and individuals help create lasting change for children and families worldwide while allowing brands to demonstrate their values through genuine social impact initiatives.

Laura Kaye from Booking.com highlighted that purpose-led partnerships can successfully combine meaningful community engagement with long-term business objectives when approached authentically and strategically.

The Leadership for Impact Summit at The Savoy Hotel reflects the growing importance of charity-led corporate events within the hospitality sector. It also reinforces London’s position as a global hub for international philanthropy, ESG leadership, and socially responsible business collaboration.