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In conversation with: Damian Wild from ING Media

ING Media has shown us once again what our sector can do to end youth homelessness by stepping up as one of the sponsors for the LandAid Trek 2026. We spoke with Damian Wild about what inspired this decision and more.

Damian and his team from ING Media have demonstrated true commitment to our mission. Through this sponsorship, their understanding of the potential impact our sector can have becomes evident. If you want to follow in ING Media’s footsteps, we have plenty of sponsorship opportunities available for multiple businesses to show their support.

On the 18 September, property industry professionals will be trekking along the South Downs Way in a challenge where every step makes a difference for young people experiencing homelessness.

What does this sponsorship opportunity mean to you and your business?

ING’s participation in the trek is growing again this year with almost half our 50-strong team taking part. Given how many of us are taking part, it made sense to go further and sponsor the shirts that we‘ll all be wearing.

What inspired ING to join the LandAid Trek this year?

Our UK team lives and works in London and Manchester where youth homelessness is all too visible every day. So first and foremost, it’s a cause that’s close to everyone’s heart. But the trek also delivers so many other positives. It enables us to stand up and be seen alongside the sector as it contributes to a great cause. It brings our team together. Oh, and who in this industry doesn’t relish a physical challenge too?

The cause, the nature of the challenge and the opportunity to spend quality time with colleagues brings everyone together more than any other event we take part in.
Damian Wild
How does supporting events like the LandAid Trek contribute to ING’s broader social value objectives?

How does supporting events like the LandAid Trek contribute to ING’s broader social value objectives?

We try to embed social value in all that we do. In our work advising clients, surfacing social value is critical as we look to transform the way people see buildings, cities and infrastructure. We have several pro bono clients too, where we focus mainly on widening access to the built environment. And then we are relentlessly enthusiastic supporters of LandAid too. The trek may be the event that draws the biggest number of INGers, but we do the run, the gala dinner (no hardship at all) and also a number of us contribute our time too.

What are you looking forward to the most from the LandAid Trek?

Spending time with colleagues. We’re doing the “trek your way” and I’m looking forward to the route our team captain Ben has mapped for us as well as the trail mix Sam has promised.

What advice would you give others in the industry considering joining the LandAid Trek?

Just do it. Trek for change is one of the easiest, most enjoyable ways in which you can support this critical cause. Whether it’s the South Downs trek, or a trek your way, it’s hugely accessible too. Many of us are doing the full route but some colleagues will join half way. Everyone will make a difference.

Being your second year joining the Trek, what made you want to come back this year?

I’ve been assured the weather this year will be as good as it was last year, and that the trail mix will be as delicious. I’ve seen the t-shirts too. More seriously, it’s the opportunity to be part of a movement to end youth homelessness.

What is one thing you believe to be most valuable for businesses about the Trek?

It’s not the most important aspect of the trek but the event has now reached a critical mass, making it a talking point with contacts, prospects and peers. It’s an industry fixture and it’s one not to miss.

Join likeminded businesses in a challenge where every step makes a massive difference on 18 September 2026 along the South Downs Way. You too can change the lives of hundreds of young people who need your support.

Will you join Damian and his team in trekking for change?

LandAid Trek 2026