On a radiant summer afternoon, the British & Commonwealth Chamber of Commerce in Finland hosted its annual Patrons Dinner at the historic and picturesque Billnäs Gård. This year's gathering was especially significant, as it brought together B3CF Patron Members, key supporters of the Finland Float at the Lord Mayor’s Show 2025, and honoured guests including the 696th Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman The Rt Hon. Alastair King DL, and the Lady Mayoress.
The choice of venue was more than symbolic. Billnäs Gård was selected in recognition of their generous donation of a prize for the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch silent auction, which helped raise an outstanding £435,000 in support of UK veterans. Our sincere thanks go to Taina Snellman-Langenskiöld for her warm hospitality and for opening the doors of this historic estate to our community.
Every detail of the event was expertly orchestrated by Lisa Vainikainen of Real Vision Hospitality, ensuring a seamless and elegant experience for all guests. The setting, bathed in sunshine and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Finnish countryside, provided the perfect atmosphere for meaningful conversation and reflection.
Guests were treated to an exceptional culinary experience rooted in a zero-waste philosophy, with ingredients sourced from local farms. The menu not only celebrated Finnish seasonal produce but also reflected the values of sustainability and innovation that define both our Chamber and our partners.
Throughout the afternoon, thought-provoking discussions unfolded on topics ranging from economic resilience and growth to the importance of bold decision-making and the transformative impact of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The presence of the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress offered a rare opportunity to explore shared priorities between the UK and Finland in an atmosphere of genuine friendship and collaboration.
We are deeply grateful to all who made this special occasion possible - our Patron Members, our hosts, our partners, and every guest who contributed to the rich dialogue and spirit of community that defines B3CF.
The 2025 Patrons Dinner was not only a celebration of longstanding partnerships, but also a reaffirmation of the values we hold dear: generosity, innovation, and shared responsibility for shaping a better future.
