This year, Zenzero’s annual Design Challenge, delivered in schools across the Channel Islands, took on added meaning through a partnership with the Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation (PPBF).
By combining creativity with a clear purpose, the collaboration helped raise awareness of the charity’s work while providing practical support to families who need it most.
The work of the Priaulx Premature Baby Foundation
PPBF supports families facing the challenges of premature birth or serious illness in young children. One of its key initiatives is providing “home from home” accommodation near Southampton Hospital, giving Channel Island families a place to stay while their children receive specialist care.
These apartments offer more than just a place to sleep. They provide comfort, stability and a sense of normality during what is often a very difficult time.
Adding impact to the Design Challenge
Zenzero’s Design Challenge is designed to encourage creativity and problem solving in young people while giving something back to the community. Partnering with PPBF allowed us to extend that impact even further.
Alongside raising awareness through the competition, and with support from our headline sponsor PlainSail, we donated a Smart TV and an Xbox Series S to PPBF. These are now installed in one of the Southampton apartments, helping families relax and unwind during their stay.
Bringing creativity to life
We also brought the winning Design Challenge concept to life. The design featured a flying pirate ship, created to make journeys between the Channel Islands and Southampton feel safe and imaginative for families.
This idea was recreated in LEGO and installed in “Matthew’s Hideaway”, a room named in memory of Matthew, a young boy who lost his battle with cancer. As a big LEGO fan, this felt like a fitting tribute, adding something meaningful for families using the space.
In addition, the team took part in PPBF’s “Raffle a Day Off” fundraiser, raising £230 for the charity.
Jo Priaulx, co-founder of PPBF, said:
“From the moment we applied to be one of their chosen charities for 2024, the support, enthusiasm and generosity from the team at Zenzero was clear. They have been incredibly open to our ideas, allowing us to be part of their projects in creative and engaging ways, while always being thoughtful and supportive. This partnership has helped us not only raise funds but also increase awareness, which is essential to keeping our charity active in the community. The additions to Frankie’s Den in Southampton will benefit families for years to come, and helping to keep Matthew’s memory alive means a great deal to his loved ones. On behalf of everyone at PPBF, thank you.”
