Trustees’ Annual Report
Financial Year Ending March 2025
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).
Report for the year ending March 2025
The UK Bengali Convention (UKBC) 2024, held on the 22[nd] and 23[rd] of June at The Tom Fleming Centre, Stewart's Melville College, Queensferry Rd, Edinburgh, marked another milestone in the celebration of Bengali culture in the UK. This annual event brought together over 400 visitors across two vibrant days, reaffirming its status as a cornerstone of the Bengali diaspora's cultural calendar.
UKBC 2024 was a vibrant two-day celebration of Bengali culture, creativity, and community, bringing together artists, writers, academics, families, and community groups from across the UK and beyond. The programme showcased a rich blend of music, dance, drama, literature, and visual arts alongside thought-provoking panel discussions, STEM and innovation sessions, and dedicated activities for children and young people. With performances ranging from classical and folk traditions to contemporary and fusion works, and conversations featuring internationally recognised authors and scholars, UKBC 2024 highlighted both the depth of Bengali heritage and its evolving global expression. The event also provided inclusive spaces for learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange, reinforcing UKBC’s mission to celebrate heritage, nurture talent, and strengthen community connections.
The convention featured multiple tracks running simultaneously, including:
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Musical Performances : Vocal and instrumental acts showcasing the depth and diversity of Bengali music, blending classical, folk, and modern styles.
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Dance Performances : Stunning displays of traditional Bengali dance forms infused with innovative contemporary choreography.
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Theatre and Storytelling : Dramatic interpretations of Bengali literature and folklore, offering a vibrant and immersive cultural experience.
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Art Exhibitions : Showcases of Bengali visual art that celebrated the creativity of artists from the community.
The convention also served as a platform for meaningful discussions. Panel sessions tackled critical issues such as cultural preservation, the challenges faced by the diaspora, and the vital role of the younger generation in maintaining and advancing Bengali traditions. These discussions fostered intellectual exchange and highlighted the community's shared values and aspirations.
A major attraction was the bustling marketplace, which featured an array of stalls offering traditional Bengali delicacies, handmade crafts, textiles, and artisanal goods. This marketplace not only provided attendees with a taste of Bengal but also supported local entrepreneurs and small businesses within the community.
UKBC 2024 would not have been possible without the collaboration and support of over 40 organizations from across the UK. Their collective efforts in planning, funding, and promoting the event ensured its continued success.
The event also featured performances by renowned Bengali singer from London, Sahana Bajpaie.
Statement of Income and Expenses for the Year ending March 2024
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Month Opening Balance Money In Money Out Closing Balance
Apr-24 £ 953.25 97.5 £ 1,050.75
May-24 £ 1,050.75 £ 908.58 £ 1,959.33
Jun-24 £ 1,959.33 £ 8,569.55 £ 4,330.00 £ 6,198.88
Jul-24 £ 6,198.88 £ 77.88 £ 5,589.85 £ 686.91
Aug-24 £ 686.91 £ 200.00 £ 486.91
Sep-24 £ 486.91 £ 480.00 £ 6.91
Oct-24 £ 6.91 £ 6.91
Nov-24 £ 6.91 £ 6.91
Dec-24 £ 6.91 £ 6.91
Jan-25 £ 6.91 £ 6.91
Feb-25 £ 6.91 £ 6.91
Mar-25 £ 6.91 £ 6.91
Total Income £ 9,653.51
Total Expenditure £ 10,599.85
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