Blog. Spotlight on: Rodger Grant
August 18, 2025 | Author Giuliana Vittiglio
We never expect anything in return from the people we support, our only aim is to help where we can, so it’s always heart-warming when someone we’ve supported decides to give back through fundraising.
One such person is Maya Gilbert, who we supported with financial assistance during the pandemic. Maya is now taking on the incredible challenge of walking the entire English Coastal Path in our honour! Another is Rodger Grant. We supported Rodger by helping cover rent and a deposit so he could secure new accommodation after a long period without a fixed address. We caught up with Rodger, who to show his gratitude all these years later, is planning a series of special events on our behalf.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your time working in hospitality?
I began my journey in hospitality through music and culture. After growing up in the Midlands and Northwest, I moved to Shoreditch in the mid-nineties, immersed in a scene that valued creativity above all else. In 2006, I co-founded Three Blind Mice, a cult venue known for its underground atmosphere, eclectic design, and cutting-edge programming. As Creative Director, I developed every aspect of the bar, from branding and staffing to live music and partnerships, hosting artists such as Amy Winehouse, Adele, and Tim Burgess.
Those experiences laid the foundation for Soul Partizan Radio Roadshow, now a global broadcast with 30,000+ listeners. Over the years, I’ve travelled extensively as a DJ, promoting British black culture and nurturing new talent. More recently, I’ve expanded into event production with projects like Redhill Fields in the East Midlands and partnerships with Art’otel Hoxton and Gillett Square in London aid of Hospitality Action.
How did you first hear about Hospitality Action? And what did our support mean to you?
It was in 2022; I’d just had a pop-up project finish due to the leaseholder deciding to end the project. I was living with my ex-partner, and I had just been diagnosed with COPD after the covid epidemic had developed it. I did my MA in creative entrepreneurship and was encouraged to do a startup business, by Hackney council. I was sofa surfing for ten months while waiting for accommodation. One of my council advisors introduced me to Hospitability Action for financial support.
You’re launching a brand-new community-driven event, All Good in the Neighbourhood, what’s it all about?
All Good in the Neighbourhood is a community celebration for the unsung heroes of the hospitality industry, from bartenders and baristas to chefs, porters, cleaners, and delivery drivers. Taking place at Gillett Square, Dalston, on Sunday 31 Augusts, this all-day gathering flips the script, the people who serve our cities are now the guests of honour. Organised by Many Hands Make Light Work Productions in proud support of Hospitality Action; we’re looking to combine the local community and the hospitality community. You can book your tickets here.
Tell us about the Sound & Soul Sessions you’re working on. How did they come about and what can guests expect?
A fresh cultural series is launching this September in the heart of East London at Art’otel Hoxton. The concept came about from an initial programme we did when I had my bar the ‘Three Blind Mice’. Sound & Soul Sessions brings together iconic musicians, legendary producers, and devoted fans for an intimate night of live Q&A interviews, gallery DJ sets, and soulful conversation with special guests Simon Bartholomew (Sept 2), Howie B (Oct 8), and Jordan Rakei (Nov 5). The events celebrate music, foster community, and support Hospitality Action and are on sale here.
Finally, what would you say to others who are thinking about fundraising for Hospitality Action?
Get involved ASAP. This charity has a modern way of understanding life and appreciates how hard it is to survive in hospitality.
We’re incredibly grateful to Rodger for choosing to fundraise on our behalf and we hope to see you at one of the events above. For more information simply send us an email. #WeveGotYou
