05:30, 19 April 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
‘Chella is back for another year and while many may be focused on the fabulous fits at the event often dubbed ‘The Influencer Olympics’, it is also good to look beyond that at what celebs are doing outside the famous festival.
So here are some of the stars that showed up and positive things they have done.
This is about Soft Play’s drummer, Isaac Holman who recently revealed that he is preparing to run a 57-mile ultramarathon from Glasgow to Edinburgh this October, raising funds for Abigail’s Footsteps – a charity that supports bereaved parents and works to improve maternity care.
The challenge is deeply personal, following the heartbreaking loss of his daughter, Lila, at 21 weeks due to a severe heart defect. Issac has bravely shared his experience, shedding light on the lack of compassion and care during the hospital stay and birth. His goal is to help ensure other families don’t face similar trauma. Donations can be made via his JustGiving page, where over £8,000 has already been raised.
People are already dubbing this year’s festival ‘Gagachella’ and for good reason! The singer has long been involved in activism as a powerful extension of her artistry. Through the Born This Way Foundation, she champions youth empowerment and mental health support. The foundation promotes kindness, bravery, and emotional well-being through programmes like the Be There Certificate and the Kindness in Community Fund, which backs grassroots organisations.
Outside of running her own foundation, Lady Gaga has also championed LGBTQIA+ rights, often speaking out against policies that infringe on the group.
Coming out as part of Megan Thee Stallion’s set, hiphop legend Missy Elliott has long used her platform to support various causes, particularly supporting women and girls, animal welfare and HIV/AIDS care.
Through her philanthropic efforts, she has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, youth empowerment, and gender equality. Elliott’s projects often focus on uplifting young girls and aspiring artists, providing them with resources and opportunities to succeed. Her charitable work demonstrates a deep commitment to positive change, as she continues to inspire and empower those who need it most.
Benson Boone, not only a rising star in music, is also making a meaningful impact through his charity work. He is particularly committed to supporting causes that uplift young people and promote inclusivity. Boone has been involved in initiatives that encourage mental health awareness and provide resources for those in need.
Benson and his family have decided to establish the Benson Boone Scholarship Fund to help future graduates of Monroe High School achieve their dreams. You can donate to it on their page.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Abigail’s Footsteps. This UK charity is dedicated to supporting bereaved parents who have experienced the loss of a baby, offering counselling and practical assistance. Find out more.
Born This Way Foundation. This organisation focuses on empowering young people and promoting mental health awareness to create a kinder, braver world. Learn more here.
MusiCares. This US-based non-profit provides financial and emotional support to musicians in need, offering assistance with health, recovery, and personal crises. Support them here.
This article aligns with the Partnerships for the Goals.
All images are from the artists’ Instagram accounts.
