Sabine Douglas

Team Plan member Sabine is challenging stereotypes and fighting for girls’ rights.

New to boxing, she trained with White Collar Boxing cohort for two months before entering the ring for a live fight night. Whilst participating in her training she also raised an incredible £1,200 to help girls worldwide live free from violence and have their voices heard.

We caught up with her to find out what inspired her to take on a boxing challenge.

Hi Sabine! Can you tell us what inspired you to fundraise for our Because I am a Girl campaign?

I saw a TV advert and the striking message immediately resonated with me; I couldn't think of a more impactful and tangible way to empower women.

The statistics of Plan UK's success meant that I could quantify how much impact my fundraising would have, which just motivated me more, as well as inspiring others!

Why did you decide on a boxing challenge?

I wanted to do something difficult, challenging and completely outside of my comfort zone to raise money.

Women worldwide are fighting for equality, to live without pain and fear and suffering on a daily basis - this made white collar boxing feel pretty insignificant in comparison!

What did you enjoy most about the challenge?

If I'm honest, the support and overwhelming rewarding feeling of doing something selfless that's going to better the lives of others.

Every single time I received a message that someone had donated, or sent a message of support, it truly gave me a sense of purpose!

I completed the challenge with a bunch of amazing women, all fundraising and fighting for different causes. The support, morale and general atmosphere of encouragement was great to be a part of.

 

It sounds like hard work! Did you face any challenges along the way? 

Absolutely! The first time I got punched in the face I cried for ages and didn't want to go back. I sobbed all the way home and I've never felt so vulnerable in my life, knowing I had to continue this for another 7 weeks.

I remember the pressure, nerves and overall anxiety of getting up in front of hundreds of people for a boxing match that I'd had eight weeks training for. It was completely terrifying and definitely one of the hardest things I've ever done in my life.

The training regime was exhausting, I made a great deal of sacrifices and it certainly took its toll. Had I not have been able to directly relate to the charity, I would have quit after the first session.

Knowing that just £10 more could almost change someone's life, kept me going. That and the thought of a holiday and a crate of carbs at the end!

What is your top fundraising tip for others who want to do something to support our work? 

Don't be afraid to show the good with the bad! I found that people were more willing to support me when I shared the reality (no alcohol and a strict diet, the blood sweat and tears and exhausting training), rather than painting a happy picture.

The struggle was real. But nothing in comparison to what I was fundraising for.

Plan's support was also instrumental; they sent me fundraising packs and shared stats that I could use to get people to support the cause.

What advice would you give to others wanting to take on a challenge?

Do it! Sign up and don't look back. People say the gratification is in the doing, and I can tell you it absolutely is!

White Collar Boxing is a form of boxing where participants train like a professional boxer to fight in special events. 

If you're thinking of taking on a challenge and fundraising for our work we'd love to hear from you. Contact our Community and Events Fundraising Team or find out more about our challenges.