Trustees’ Annual Report Financial Year Ending March 2023
Introduction
United Kingdom Bengali Convention (UKBC) is a non-profit charity registered in the UK, with a view to organise the largest convention for the Bengali diaspora based in the UK.
UKBC has had support from up to 60 organisations in the UK with a view to celebrate this unique annual celebration.
Our Aim
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To advance the education of the public in the subject of Bengali culture by any means as the trustees in their discretion shall determine.
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The promotion of racial harmony for the public benefit by promoting knowledge and mutual understanding between different racial groups and advancing education and raising awareness about different racial groups to promote good relations between persons of different racial groups.
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The promotion of social inclusion among elderly persons who are excluded from society because they are house-bound and of Bengali ethnicity (irrespective of religions) with limited opportunity to interact with outer society, by the provision of: social trips to cultural and recreational programmes depicting Bengali culture and arts (including transport to and from home).
Change of Trustees
During this year the following Trustees resigned:
- 1) Debanjan Mukherjee
During this year the following Trustees have joined us:
- 1) Sandip Raha
Report for the year ending March 2023
This year has been the second year where UKBC has been able to host our annual event in a physical face-to-face format. The focus of our organisation was in the planning and execution of the event. The event itself was organised in at the Stoller Hall in Manchester on the 27[th] and 28[th] of Aug 2022.
Our event titled “UKBC 2021” focussed on the following areas:
The UK Bengali Convention (UKBC) 2022, held at Stoller Hall in Manchester on the 27th and 28th of August, was a landmark event for the Bengali community in the UK. This annual convention, known for celebrating Bengali culture, art, and heritage, brought together a diverse audience and featured a multitude of events that highlighted the richness of Bengali traditions.
The event was a star-studded affair, with performances by renowned Indian artists such as Imon Chatterjee, Jayati Chakraborty, Poushali Banerjee, and the legendary tabla maestro Anindo Chatterjee. Their performances spanned a variety of genres, including classical music, contemporary songs, and traditional Bengali compositions, which resonated deeply with the audience. These celebrity appearances were a major draw, and they added a touch of glamour and cultural depth to the proceedings.
UKBC 2022 was meticulously organized with multiple tracks running concurrently to cater to the varied interests of the attendees. These tracks included art exhibitions showcasing the works of Bengali artists, dramatic performances that brought Bengali literature and folklore to life, and a series of vocal and instrumental musical performances. The dance performances were particularly noteworthy, blending traditional Bengali dance forms with contemporary choreography, creating a visual feast for the attendees.
In addition to the performances, the convention featured discussion panels that addressed a range of topics relevant to the Bengali community, including cultural preservation, the challenges of the diaspora, and the role of youth in continuing Bengali traditions. These panels provided a platform for intellectual exchange and community dialogue, enriching the cultural experience of the event.
Another highlight of the UKBC 2022 was the marketplace, where small businesses had the opportunity to display and sell their products. This marketplace featured a wide array of items, from traditional Bengali foods such as sweets and snacks to handmade crafts, textiles, and other artisanal goods. This not only provided a taste of Bengal to the attendees but also supported small businesses within the community.
The convention was made possible through the support of over 70 organizations from across the UK, reflecting the strong sense of community and collaboration among the Bengali diaspora. These organizations played a crucial role in organizing, funding, and promoting the event, ensuring its success.
Overall, UKBC 2022 was a celebration of Bengali culture that went beyond mere entertainment. It was a gathering that reinforced community bonds, showcased artistic talents, and provided a platform for cultural exchange. The event left a lasting impact on all who attended, highlighting the vibrant and resilient nature of the Bengali community in the UK.
Statement of Income and Expenses for the Year ending March 2023
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Month Opening Balance Money In Money Out Closing Balance
Apr-22 £ 1,132.02 £ - £ - £ 1,132.02
May-22 £ 1,132.02 £ 50.00 £ 1,182.02
Jun-22 £ 1,182.02 £ 575.00 £ 1,757.02
Jul-22 £ 1,757.02 £ 4,915.00 £ 6,672.02
Aug-22 £ 6,672.02 £ 738.68 £ 2,150.00 £ 5,260.70
Sep-22 £ 5,260.70 £ 1,831.63 £ 5,578.12 £ 1,514.21
Oct-22 £ 1,514.21 £ 1,161.00 £ 353.21
Nov-22 £ 353.21 £ 160.00 £ 513.21
Dec-22 £ 513.21 £ 15.00 £ 528.21
Jan-23 £ 528.21 £ 38.00 £ 566.21
Feb-23 £ 566.21 £ 251.00 £ 817.21
Mar-23 £ 817.21 £ 350.00 £ 150.00 £ 1,017.21
Total Income £ 8,924.31
Total Expenditure £ 9,039.12
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