This year has been full of upheaval and unexpected challenges, yet throughout the pandemic members of the Guild have rallied behind excellent causes and lived up to the four pillars of the City; promoting education, charity, fellowship, and trade. Whilst we haven’t been able to meet in person or hold events like the Installation Banquet or Lord Mayor’s Show, we have been privileged to still run a diverse and interesting programme of events in this first half of our membership year 2020 – 2021, including…
Meet the Livery
Fellowship is one of the fundamental pillars of the City and Livery, and we have been delighted to host so many of our Livery friends for virtual ‘Meet the Livery’ sessions. These have ranged from learning about the difference between casks with the Coopers, about the myriad uses of wool with Woolmen, and seeing the spectacular array of basketry with the Basketmakers, and many more!
The Fruiterers The Basketmakers
City Giving Day
Charity being another pillar of the City, and in a first for the Guild of Young Freemen, members took advantage of the good weather and relaxation of lockdown rules to get outside (following social distancing and local rules!) and participate in a group challenge to raise money for the Lord Mayor’s Appeal and the Master’s Charity (The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award). Overall we raised just over £300.00 for these good causes, and are looking forward to next year’s challenge!
In Conversation With…
We were honoured to host Alderman Emma Edhem to join us in the second of our ‘In Conversation With…’ series, where the Master interviews a notable City figure. Emma had some fantastic insights into the workings of the Court of Alderman, as well as some inspiring advice for our members!
Carols for the City
VOCES8 Performing at Carols for the City Mince pies with the Master post service
What better way to end the year than with a traditional carol service. Yet, this time, rather than the familiar surroundings of St. Michael’s Cornhill, we found ourselves (together with all the City and Livery) joining a virtual livestream from the VOCES8 Centre with readings from the Lord Mayor, the Lord Lieutenant of London, and from HRH Prince Edward. All together we raised a staggering £45,000 for charity. After the service, members met virtually for mince pies with the Master, and wished one another a very Merry Christmas.
We look forward to seeing everyone again as we go into 2021, and have an equally exciting events programme lined up for the second half of the membership year! You can find more details of it on our events page, HERE.
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