Community at the Core: How Frank Matcham’s aligns with Gef’s 30 Under 30

Ahead of a special Christmas mixer event at Frank Matcham’s to reunite this year’s Gef’s 30 Under 30 Winners and Partners, we spoke with the team at Jaks Group about their partnership with Gef’s 30 Under 30 2024 Community Impact Category.

What made you want to be involved in Gef’s 30 Under 30?

The Jaks Group believe it is important to empower young people who are making an impact in the community for many reasons. We are very present in our island community, and we hope that we are making a positive impact with our venues by enabling more people to enjoy a diverse range of local hospitality offerings. It was also seen as a great opportunity to promote one of our latest venues, raise awareness and connect with a wider audience that engages directly with Gef and Gef’s 30 Under 30.

What company values do you have that align with Gef’s 30 Under 30 campaign?

The Jaks Group have a strong ethos for providing opportunities to young people on the Isle of Man as they are the future players of the island. We have ample job opportunities across all our establishments and business, providing training and development opportunities for those who want to make a career in hospitality. The transferrable skills that can be picked up by working in this sector prove valuable throughout life. We encourage our staff to explore their own ideas and implement them if possible. We also offer sponsorships for local sports teams and individuals to support local up and coming talent.

Why is the category you chose to sponsor important to your company?

The Community Impact category aligns directly with the Jaks Group ethos, to continuously create new venues and business that create a direct impact in our community. As an island, we think it is so important to support the local food and drink scene and suppliers through our business and ensuring security for local businesses and producers. The Manx community are what makes the island the incredibly special place that it is – we absolutely love it for that!

What is your company doing to support young people on the island?

The Jaks Group actively support and sponsor young people in the sporting world and continue to create new and exciting venues for our local community to enjoy, within an affordable price bracket. Frank Matcham’s was specifically created to be somewhere close to the arts and cultural scene, of which many under 30’s are a big part of. Times are tough for everyone, and the younger demographic shouldn’t be effectively cut off from the local community due to the cost of living. We offer incredible deals for families like Kids Eat Free which really makes a difference to so many people and lifts the spirits of the community.

Did you go to Gef’s 30 Under 30 Winner’s Party and if so, what did you think of the event?

Yes, we did attend and it was one of the highlights of the year, supported by so many local businesses, sponsors, MHK’s and of course all of the nominees and winners who deserved the recognition on the night and we were delighted to join in the celebrations. It was a fabulous event with the perfect mix of entertainment, professional hosts and the wonderful team from Gef and Media Isle of Man who helped make this a fantastic event.

What stood out to you most about the winners in your category?

It was heartwarming to hear of the efforts that Jay Wight, Joe Reid and Kim Tastagh had put into their respective initiatives and events. These guys are selfless and do what they do for the love of people and help guide individuals with their leadership and engagement skills to look after one’s health, mindfulness and support local communities which makes the Island a better place to live.