WIZO UK serves up successful charity padel tournament raising funds for vital projects in Israel

More than 60 players took to the courts for a vibrant day of sport, fundraising and community spirit at WIZO UK’s Mixed Padel Tournament, raising vital funds to support WIZO projects helping vulnerable women, children and families across Israel.

The tournament, which took place at The Padel Hub, saw 63 players compete in mixed pairs throughout the day in a lively and competitive atmosphere hosted by journalist Suzanne Baum.

The winning pair were Zoe Kessler and Meir Porat, while Daniel Jackson and Nicole Neumann finished as runners-up following a closely fought final.

The event was sponsored by Winkworth, with a number of businesses contributing to the day. CPress provided protein-packed smoothies for players, while CANO Water kept competitors hydrated throughout the tournament. Zylo Padel and Name The Ball donated prizes for the charity raffle, while the team from Grains and Greens provided salad bowls for all players at lunch.

Emma Yantin, Events Manager at WIZO UK, welcomed players by highlighting the strong sense of community throughout the day and the organisation’s mission to support vulnerable people across Israeli society.

She said: “It’s truly special to see so many new faces today many of you are attending a WIZO event for the very first time, so a particularly warm welcome. And much like padel, once you’ve come along once, there’s a very good chance you’ll be back again.

“For those who may be new to us, WIZO UK is, at its core, about one thing: strengthening lives in Israel, with social welfare services that support every need at every stage of life, regardless of race, religion or gender.

“At this time however, our focus is especially on the women who have had to carry society since October 7 and their families.

“And in many ways, today feels very fitting. Padel is all about partnership, resilience, support and community — showing up for one another, lifting each other up, and knowing that no one succeeds entirely alone. Those same values are exactly what sit at the heart of WIZO.

“Your support is vital. It’s therapy for those dealing with trauma. It’s safe spaces for vulnerable women and children. It’s education that helps rebuild futures.”

The winning pair, Zoe Kessler and Meir Porat, said: “We had such a brilliant day playing in the tournament and were thrilled to win, but the real highlight was being part of an event that brought so many people together for such an important cause. The atmosphere was incredible from start to finish and it was great to know the money raised will go towards supporting the life-changing work WIZO does for women, children and families across Israel.”

Funds raised from the tournament will go towards supporting WIZO’s projects across Israel, including women’s shelters, youth villages, schools, day-care centres, trauma support services and community programmes helping families recover and rebuild following ongoing conflict and instability.