Brighton Grammar School’s community united to raise money for Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia in honour of the memory of former student James Tsindos.
Tsindos died in 2021 after suffering a severe allergic reaction to a takeaway meal.
The school’s annual Jam for James event raised $17,000. The event included an assembly and concert bringing together current and former students, staff, family members, and friends to reflect on James’ life and promote awareness of food allergies and anaphylaxis.
James was a member of the Class of 2021 and is remembered as a vibrant and gifted young man with a deep love of music. He was a talented pianist who dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur and one day living in Los Angeles.
Tom Deans, James’ close friend, shared personal memories at the assembly and spoke about the positive impact James had on those around him.
Maria Said, Chief Executive Officer of Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia (A&AA) and Director and co-chair of the National Allergy Council, delivered a keynote address at the assembly on food allergy awareness, anaphylaxis and ways to foster an inclusive environment for people with severe allergies.
Jam for James featured performances from student musicians and Old Boy Finn Watson-Hook from the Class of 2022.
“Through music, reflection and connection, we honoured James’ legacy while raising awareness of food allergies and anaphylaxis, continuing a conversation that remains as important today as ever,” the school said on social media.
“He will always hold a special place in the heart of BGS.”
