On the 15th of August, members and guests of the British & Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce in Finland gathered in the beautiful garden of the British Ambassador’s residence for an afternoon of networking and celebration. The event began with an insightful seminar led by Herkko Plit, CEO of P2X Solutions, who captivated the audience with his expert analysis on the future role of green hydrogen in the energy sector.
As the seminar concluded, the garden party commenced in full swing, with guests mingling under sunny skies as the Helsinki Pipes and Drums set a lively tone for the festivities. The event was graced by the presence of several distinguished dignitaries, including His Majesty's Ambassador Theresa Bubbear OBE, the Ambassador of India to Finland, HE Hemant H. Kotalwar, and his wife, the Ambassador of Canada, HE Jeanette Stovel, Deputy Head of Mission of Namibia, Mr. Cleophas P. Hakweenda, Minister Pertti Salolainen CBE, Saara-Sofia Sirén MP, and the Mayor of Helsinki, Juhana Vartiainen. Adding to the event's elegance was the prominently displayed Bentley Continental GT. The band Spitfire enhanced the atmosphere with their energetic performance of classic 80s and 90s hits, which provided a perfect backdrop to the afternoon.
The highlight of the party was when Garry Parker, Honorary President and Founder of the B3CF, addressed the attendees from the embassy's balcony. Garry expressed his heartfelt thanks to all the guests and to those who had worked tirelessly to elevate the gathering from a simple garden party to an extraordinary celebration, which also marked the 75th anniversary of the Commonwealth. He announced that Pekka Halmet, recently elected Chairman at the last AGM, would be his successor. Pekka took the opportunity to introduce the programme of upcoming events and to thank Garry for his 16 years of service, presenting him with a bottle of the Famous B3CF Whisky and flowers for Mrs. Maria Parker, who supported her husband throughout his long chairmanship. Vladislav Dobrokhotov then began a new tradition by presenting the Commonwealth Trophy to Antti Suonio, winner of the Commonwealth Golf Day 2024, marking the intermission's close and inviting guests to enjoy the exquisite food from La Locanda Herttoniemi, Loimukeisari, Saiko Robata, and Cakery.
The event continued with a selection of drinks provided by Anora, Nederburg Wine, and Arctic Blue Beverages Long Drink, creating a convivial atmosphere as guests enjoyed the rest of the afternoon. The day concluded on a high note with an exciting raffle, where the grand prize—a weekend driving experience in a Bentley Continental GT—served as the perfect finale. As the final prize was awarded and the afternoon transitioned into evening, some guests bid farewell, while others continued their conversations at the afterparty hosted at Brewhouse Bryggeri, rounding off a day filled with celebration and camaraderie.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all participants and sponsors for their contributions to the success of this extraordinary event.
Photo: Mirkku Merimaa / Ihana Elämys Oy and Rita Tainola.
