From Ceremony to Charity Mission

Author/Editor Maria Anna Furman

The 54th Polish Ball took place at the InterContinental Park Lane hotel in London, marking one of the most important social and charitable events within the Polish community in the United Kingdom. Organised continuously since 1970, the celebration once again combined elements of diplomatic protocol, émigré tradition and charitable activity, bringing together representatives from public life, diplomacy, business and the social sector.

The evening began in accordance with official protocol. Guests were invited to stand and join in the singing of the British National Anthem, followed by the loyal toast, “The King.” The Polish National Anthem was then performed, accompanied by the toast “To the President of the Republic of Poland.”

The bilingual format of the ceremony, together with the presence of state representatives, underscored the event's international character and its symbolic role as a meeting point between the Polish diaspora and the British institutional environment. The evening's official opening was hosted by Polish journalist and television presenter Joanna Racewicz and BBC News presenter Kasia Madera.

During the introduction, the history of the Polish Ball was recalled, noting that it was initiated in January 1970 by General Władysław Anders. It was also noted that the event has been held under the honorary patronage of His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent for many years.

During the formal part of the evening, invited guests were welcomed, including representatives of Polish diplomacy and political and institutional figures. Among them were:

Jerzy Boczkowski, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in London,

Ambassador Anna Maria Anders, daughter of General Władysław Anders,

representatives of British public institutions and international communities.

One of the programme's central moments was the reading of a letter from the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland, delivered by Ambassador Anna Maria Anders. The letter emphasised the historical importance of the Polish Ball and the role of the Polish diaspora in preserving national traditions and social engagement beyond Poland’s borders. It also referred to the legacy of General Władysław Anders and contemporary initiatives commemorating the history of Poles abroad.

Organisers stressed that the Polish Ball has, above all, a charitable dimension. Each year, the Organising Committee selects a beneficiary for whom funds are raised through auctions and fundraising activities during the event. This year’s support was dedicated to the Opoka organisation, which assists women and children experiencing domestic violence.

The organisation's founder, Aneta Makel, presented the history of Opoka and outlined its scope of work. She noted that the initiative began as a small support group in Bristol and has since developed into a bilingual advocacy organisation providing legal, psychological and social assistance. In her speech, she highlighted ongoing challenges in securing funding and expressed gratitude to the organisers for their support of the initiative.

Following the official segment, the evening's first artistic performance was presented by the Mazury Song and Dance Ensemble. The programme continued with charity auctions, a formal dinner and further artistic performances. The hosts emphasised the importance of generosity among participants and encouraged active engagement in fundraising activities.

During the event, sponsors and partners were invited onto the stage and officially thanked for their organisational and financial support. Special recognition was given to members of the organising committee, including a dedicated acknowledgement of the Ball’s Chair, solicitor Marzena Konarzewska, who was responsible for preparing this year’s edition.

Author/Editor Maria Anna Furman

The 54th Polish Ball took place at the InterContinental Park Lane in London.
It is one of the most important Polish community and charity events in the United Kingdom.
The evening combined diplomatic ceremony, émigré tradition and charitable fundraising.
This year, the funds raised were dedicated to supporting Opoka.
The event highlights the role of the Polish diaspora in preserving tradition and building community abroad.

The 54th Polish Ball in London is more than a social event. It serves as an important meeting point for the Polish diaspora, public institutions and socially engaged communities. Its importance lies in combining a long-standing émigré tradition with real charitable impact. This year’s edition placed special emphasis on supporting Opoka, an organisation helping women and children affected by domestic abuse. As a result, the event builds not only prestige but also measurable social value.