St. George Party Raises HUF 1 mln for UNICEF

“Thank you ever so much for supporting UNICEF’s work for children through this wonderful event! It was great being part of the evening, and we’re very grateful for all the funds raised,” Antónia Mészáros, executive director of UNICEF Hungary, told guests.

The annual fundraiser brought together expats and locals from Hungary’s business, diplomatic and cultural circles, including several ambassadors, the country director of the British Council, and several top people from the British Embassy.

An extensive cheese and wine tasting reception included English and local cheeses paired with wine from St George Hill near Balaton, along with whites, rosés and reds from other regions around the country.

After a welcome from MC Peter Linka that included a Shakespeare recital (St. George’s Day was both the birthday and the date of death of the playwright), Matthew Kirlew, head of policy at the British Embassy, highlighted the international background of the patron saint of England (and many other places), who is known as Szent György in Hungarian.

Next, Mészáros talked about the work and challenges the United Nations Children’s Fund faces, highlighting that it relies on donations. As usual, TV star Zsuzsa Demcsák hosted the live charity auction, with all funds raised going to UNICEF.

The evening also included a VIP screening of the Amy Winehouse biopic “Back to Black” and later dancing to popular English music.

This article was first published in the Budapest Business Journal print issue of May 31, 2024.