Sponsored by Howes Percival LLP
Stand Up Challenge returns!
Our annual fundraiser puts local figures onto a stage for the very first time performing their very first stand-up routine
We’ve wrangled 8 willing/nervous/brazen (delete as appropriate) individuals from local businesses, charities and universities to take on the challenge, all whilst raising money for Big Difference Company, the charity behind Leicester Comedy Festival
Participants are supported through the process by Jay Neale all the way up to the showcase at The Y Theatre on Tuesday 30th September
Donate to the campaign on JustGiving here: Just Giving – Stand Up Challenge 2025
Tickets for the event are available here: Stand Up Challenge 2025
Rob Spence
Director, Paragon Sales Solutions
In a moment of questionable judgement, I agreed to take part in the Stand-Up Challenge Leicester 2025—yes, that’s right, I’ll be performing real stand-up comedy, on a real stage, in front of real people! (bit of a dream come true tbh!) Why am I doing this? Because I’m raising money for The Big Difference Company, an incredible charity that uses comedy and the arts to promote wellbeing, tackle inequality, and bring people together. I’ll be swapping my usual day job for punchlines, awkward silences, and probably a lot of sweat under a spotlight. Your donation, big or small, will go a long way in helping a charity that’s genuinely making people’s lives better through laughter and creativity. Support the cause. Spare some change. And pray I remember my lines!
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Hema Badger-Mistry
CEO, Pedestrian
So, I have a big birthday this year and rather than going on a trip of lifetime, I've agreed to do Stand Up Comedy!! If you’ve ever laughed at one of my stories or rolled your eyes at my terrible jokes, now’s your chance to show some love! It is all for a good cause with all proceeds being split between Big Difference Company and Pedestrian (Registered Charity: 1140032) who have been transforming the lives of vulnerable children and young people in Leicester/shire through creativity since 1998. As a very proud CEO, we are an arts and education organisation that provides education, outreach and training for young people (up to the age of 25) at risk, whom are often socially excluded, in challenging circumstances and experiencing disadvantages. All funds will go towards Our Big Build, our capital campaign to create a vital, safe hub for young people in the heart of the city. This is definitely not in my comfort zone, I'm equally excited and terrified so please donate, share the campaign or support on the night by buying tickets for the show.
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Sunita Patel
Head of Charity, Leicester Hospitals Charity
I’m doing stand-up… I know. What could possibly go wrong? So here’s the deal – I’ve signed up for the Stand Up Challenge, and yes, that does mean standing on a stage, with a mic, in front of actual people. Why? Because I’m raising money for two brilliant charities doing incredible work across Leicester and beyond. Some of you may know that I’m Head of Charity at Leicester Hospitals Charity, and the money I raise – with your support – will be split between Leicester Hospitals Charity (no. 1056804) and Big Difference Company (no. 1135167), turning laughs into impact. Leicester Hospitals Charity supports patients, staff and carers across Leicester's Hospitals. Big Difference Company promotes health and wellbeing through the arts (and they’re the fab team behind Leicester Comedy Festival). I’ll be honest – this is way out of my comfort zone. But if a few minutes of me trying to be funny can help make a real difference, then I’m all in. So if you’ve ever thought, “I’d pay good money to see Sunita do stand-up” – now’s your chance. Or even if you just want to support two great causes and help me survive this… I’ll take that too!
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Trusha Lakhani
CEO/Founder, Great Business Matters
I'm excited that I’ll be taking part in the Stand Up Challenge this year on behalf of the Big Difference Company This incredible initiative is all about making a meaningful impact, and I’m thrilled to represent a charity so dedicated to driving positive change. Your support on challenges like this remind us of the power of coming together to create something truly significant. The countdown has officially begun, and I can’t wait to get started.
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Dr Jacqui Norton
Associate Professor, Arts and Festivals Management, De Montfort University
I'm doing the Stand Up Challenge Leicester this September!
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Liam Fish
Client Relationship Manager, Mattioli Woods
I'm doing the Stand Up Challenge Leicester this September!
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Miles Barnes
Partner Commercial, Howes Percival
I'm doing the Stand Up Challenge Leicester this September!
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Sallyanne Kirk
Director, Leicester Fashion District CIC
I'm doing the Stand Up Challenge Leicester this September!
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