Honoring Hungarian Heritage and Business Excellence: The HCBA Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony

The Hungarian Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Hungarian Canadian Business Association (HCBA) once again paid tribute to the heroes of the 1848-49 Revolution and War of Independence with an exclusive awards gala dinner. Hosted at the Hungarian Canadian Cultural Centre in Toronto, the evening was a remarkable celebration of Hungarian heritage, business achievements, and community.

A Night of Elegance and Commemoration

The gala commenced with a sophisticated champagne reception, where guests were welcomed with sparkling wine from Patricius Winery, presented by Joseph Safian, sommelier and Director of Operations, Food & Beverage Division of HEPA Regional Office Canada. Attendees also had the opportunity to enjoy Unicum, a Hungarian herbal liqueur, courtesy of Pieter Mielzynski Agencies.

The evening was officially opened by Sándor Balla, host of the event, President of both organizing associations, and Executive Director of HEPA Regional Office Canada. Distinguished guests included Toronto City Councillor Brad Bradford, alongside Hungary’s Ambassador to Canada, Dr. Mária Vass-Salazar, and Consul General of Hungary in Toronto, Dr. János Jákó, who delivered heartfelt remarks in honor of Hungary’s national holiday.

(From left to right: Toronto City Councillor Brad Bradford, Hungary’s Ambassador to Canada, Dr. Mária Vass-Salazar, Consul General of Hungary in Toronto, Dr. János Jákó, Executive Director of HEPA Regional Office Canada, Sándor Balla)

A major highlight of the evening was the announcement of the newly established Hungarian Canadian Medical Association, introduced by Dr. András Fecső, Director of Healthcare Affairs at HCBA. This initiative aims to unite Hungarian professionals in the healthcare sector across Canada.

Culinary Delights and Exquisite Hungarian Wines

The HCBA Business Award Gala Dinner was not only a celebration of achievements but also a showcase of Hungarian gastronomy. The carefully curated menu featured:

  • Hungarian-style amuse-bouche

  • Rich poultry consommé with meatballs and liver dumplings

  • Veal cutlet with “Vadas” sauce and bread dumplings

  • Crepes Gundel style, a classic Hungarian dessert

Paired with these exquisite dishes were outstanding Hungarian wines, including the velvety red from Csányi Winery and the fragrant Furmint from Patricius Winery, enhancing the dining experience.

Celebrating Business Excellence

One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the HCBA Business Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to the Hungarian-Canadian business community:

🏅 Businesswoman of the Year: Apolka Rohanszky, founder of Advena Immigration
🏅 Business of the Year: Canadian Mangalitsa Farm, founded by Zoltán Gazsó and Sarah Gazsó
🏅 Lifetime Achievement Award: László Kovács and Ibolya Tóth for their dedication to preserving Hungarian culture and gastronomy

Strengthening European-Canadian Business Connections

The event was further enriched by the presence of esteemed representatives from the European Union Chamber of Commerce in Canada (EUCCAN), fostering collaboration between European and Canadian business communities. Special thanks to:

🌍 Stephen Klus, Honorary President of EUCCAN & Senior VP of the Canada Poland Chamber of Commerce
☘️ Carmel Drumgoole, President of the Ireland Canada Chamber of Commerce
📚 Krisztina Arany, Director of Advancement & Alumni Engagement at George Brown College
🇧🇪 Anne Popoff, CEO of the Belgian Canadian Business Chamber
🇸🇮 John Doma, President of the Canada Slovenia Chamber of Commerce & Treasurer of EUCCAN
🏥 Margaret Doma, Director of Joseph Brant Hospital and Townsend Smith Hospice Foundation
🇷🇴 Peter Sandica, President of the Romanian-Canadian Board of Trade in Toronto
💼 Aurel Lonian, CEO of the Romanian-Canadian Board of Trade

Their presence underscored the importance of strong international partnerships and cultural exchange.

An Unforgettable Evening of Culture and Music

Adding to the grandeur of the night were mesmerizing performances by:

🎼 Bettina Tóth, harpist
🎤 Lilla Polyák, one of Hungary’s leading musical theatre stars
🎹 Gergő Teleki, pianist

The Hungarian Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the HCBA extend their gratitude to all guests, partners, and honorees who made this evening truly unforgettable. The event was a testament to the enduring strength of Hungarian-Canadian business relations, cultural heritage, and the power of community.

We look forward to another year of collaboration and success!

Comments are closed.