March 2015

UCB hosts first Commonwealth Day dinner

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UCB opened its doors to welcome local diplomats and representatives to the Birmingham Commonwealth Association’s first Commonwealth Day dinner.

The evening was attended by Commonwealth representatives and members of its Trade and Business, Community and Education focus groups. Guests from Commonwealth sister associations also attended, representing China, South East Asia, Europe and North and South America.

The dinner included welcome addresses and toasts from Paul Sabapathy CBE, HM Lord Lieutenant, Sir Albert Bore, leader of Birmingham City Council, and UCB’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof. Ray Linforth.

The Commonwealth theme for 2015 is “a young Commonwealth”, meaning that the association is recognising the capacity, contribution and potential of the young people who play a vital role at the heart of sustainable development and democracy.

We were so pleased to have our first dinner in UCB’s award-winning restaurant. The university is a key player in the association’s ‘Education’ focus group due to its international reputation for training and education in culinary arts and hospitality. Many of the UCB students looking after us during the evening were young people, and some with Commonwealth country backgrounds. We could not have asked for better service and hospitality. Everyone involved really delivered on the evening and should be very pleased and proud of their achievement.

Keith Stokes-Smith, Birmingham Commonwealth Association Chairman

Commonwealth Day is celebrated across the Commonwealth – covering 52 countries that are home to 2.2 billion people. The day offers an opportunity to promote understanding on global issues, international co-operation and the work of Commonwealth organisations that aim to improve the lives of citizens.