Boxing for a Cause: How One Southampton Electrician Is Fighting for Young Lives vs. Cancer

By Tolek
Midway boxing training session for Ultra White Collar Boxing event in Southampton.

As a full-time electrician running Solid Electrics in Southampton, most of my days are spent upgrading consumer units, installing EV chargers, or solving electrical faults. But this summer, I’ve taken on a very different kind of challenge — one that doesn’t involve tools, but training gloves.

I’ve signed up to take part in the Ultra White Collar Boxing event in Southampton on 19th July 2025, all to raise funds for the amazing charity Young Lives vs. Cancer.

Why Boxing, and Why This Cause?

Young Lives vs. Cancer is a charity that supports children and young people facing cancer, along with their families. They provide practical, emotional, and financial help during one of the toughest times imaginable. As a father, this hits home. I knew I wanted to support a cause that really makes a difference in people’s lives — and stepping into the ring, while completely outside my comfort zone, felt like a powerful way to do that.

Balancing Business and Boxing

Balancing full-time work with training hasn’t been easy. Between callouts and consumer unit upgrades, I’m now squeezing in boxing drills, sparring, and strength training sessions — often early in the morning or late at night. It’s been physically demanding, but also incredibly rewarding.

The discipline needed in boxing reminds me of the dedication I put into my electrical work. Both take focus, preparation, and a willingness to keep pushing, even when it’s tough.

Halfway Through the Journey

We’re halfway through the 8-week training programme and things are heating up. Recent sessions have included intense two-minute sparring rounds with different opponents, power punching drills, and performance circuits (think press-ups, high knees, and shadow boxing). Missing a few sessions during my family holiday definitely set me back — but I kept up my fitness and came back ready to catch up.

How You Can Support

With Fight Night fast approaching, I’m inviting the community to get involved. You can support in a few simple ways:

  • 🎟️ Buy a ticket to the event and cheer us on in person:
    Click here
  • 💷 Donate to my JustGiving page — every donation goes straight to Young Lives vs. Cancer:
    Click here
  • 🏷️ Sponsor me or my business: If you're a local business looking to give back and gain some exposure, I’d love to hear from you. Sponsorships will be mentioned on my social media and website.

Thank You :-D

Whether I’m wiring a kitchen or stepping into the ring, my goal is the same — to make a positive impact. This boxing event is more than just a challenge; it’s a way to give back to families in our community who need real support.

Thank you to all my amazing customers, fellow tradespeople, and friends who’ve backed me so far. Your support means the world — and together, we can make a difference.

Shem – Solid Electrics Limited
📍 Local Electrician, Southampton
🌐 www.solidelectrics.co.uk
📞 023 8181 0636
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