Over 170 young professionals and industry leaders gathered for an inspiring evening of insight, connection, and philanthropy at Nobu, hosted by Young Jami and Jewish Care (YJJC).
The YJJC Property Networking Event brought together a mix of professionals across the property sector. The lively evening of discussion and networking was all in support of Jami, part of Jewish Care, and raised £15,000 for the vital mental health services it provides for the Jewish community.
The evening including a reception followed by an engaging conversation between Matthew Watts, Founder of Rockbourne & The People Property Place Podcast, and Nick Leslau, Chairman and Chief Executive of Prestbury Group of Companies.
Their discussion delved into Nick’s personal journey in real estate, the lessons he’s learned, and the challenges and opportunities within the current market. He also spoke candidly of what it is like to be Jewish in the industry during such a challenging time for the community, and shared anecdotes about his first property deal.
Nick commented, “Young people are the future. Inspiring the next generation is more important today than ever before because we are living in a very anxious world, especially amongst our community. We must feel proud of who we are. I am more inclined to speak at events like this because it’s important to encourage young Jewish professionals to be proud of their Jewishness, and Jewish Care is an organisation I have supported forever.”
Nick Leslau, a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, has led Prestbury since founding it in 1998. Over the course of his distinguished career, his companies have invested in and managed more than £10 billion of property assets. He previously co-founded Burford Holdings Plc, growing it into a £1 billion enterprise and delivering a remarkable 1,300% NAV per share growth during his tenure. Beyond his business success, Nick has been a director of professional, charitable, and educational boards, been a member of the Bank of England Property Forum for over twenty years and has been director and shareholder of Saracens Rugby Club for twenty-five years.
YJJC Property Networking Committee Chair, Holly Nineberg said, “Your presence here tonight means so much to Jewish Care and Jami, and to the lives of 12,000 people whose lives are touched by their work every single day. I’d like to say a huge thank you to Nick Leslau, an incredible role model to us who, together with Matthew Watts, has truly inspired us this evening.”
Making an appeal at the event, Oliver Brecher, YJJC Committee member, added, “One in four people now needs mental health support. More than 55% of under-25s in our community are now affected by mental illness, distress or trauma. Let’s come together to ensure that we can support our community to receive the support, hope and dignity they deserve.”
The funds raised will help to support those who rely on Jami’s vital mental health services for the Jewish community and was sponsored for the eighth year running by Brotherton Real Estate. Michael Eliott, Compton, as well as PRP and Eastdil Secured and Asserson also supported the event.
Jewish Care’s Director of Fundraising & Marketing, Ellisa Estrin, said, “Thanks to the dedication of our incredible YJJC Property Committee and the generosity of everyone who attended, we’re thrilled that this event was such a success, raising £15,000. As Jami continues to experience growing demand for its mental health services for the Jewish community, this support is invaluable. The funds raised will help ensure we can continue providing vital help, hope, and care to those in our community who need it most.”