On January 26th, the Exeter Phoenix played host to the 33rd annual Grand Finale of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (WOŚP), a distinguished Polish initiative established in 1993 by the renowned radio journalist Jerzy “Jurek” Owsiak in Warsaw. Since its inception, WOŚP has dedicated itself to enhancing healthcare and saving lives, particularly focusing on providing state-of-the-art medical equipment to public hospitals. This year’s campaign specifically sought to raise vital funds for paediatric haematology and oncology.
Under the exemplary leadership of Anna Kmita, WOŚP has been a prominent fixture in Exeter since 2019, forming part of a global network of nearly 8,000 branches spanning continents—from Poland and the United Kingdom to the United States, Southeast Asia, and even Antarctica.
The Grand Finale, a meticulously orchestrated event months in the making since October 2024, was brought to fruition with the tireless efforts of over 50 volunteers, including more than 10 students from the University of Exeter’s Polish Society. The event presented a comprehensive range of activities designed for all ages, with every penny of the proceeds being donated to the charity.
The day featured an eclectic mix of live musical performances, with standout acts such as Combustion, Red Stitches, It Might Be Friday, and Czapa captivating the audience. In addition, a hallmark of the event was the live auction, which offered an array of exclusive items including branded mugs, calendars, bags, toys, paintings, and jewellery. These auctions were also held online for two weeks prior to the event, maximizing accessibility and ensuring the potential for the greatest possible fundraising impact.
In a notable educational contribution, professional medical personnel provided live demonstrations on how to administer first aid and manage emergency situations. This hands-on approach allowed attendees of all ages to gain invaluable knowledge on life-saving techniques.
Another highlight of the event was the immersive performance “A Return to Slavic Roots,” which featured theatrical combat depicting ancient pagan rituals. This, along with live Muay Thai lessons provided by the FSC Muay Thai school, offered participants both children and adults the opportunity to engage with skilled martial arts coaches, further enriching the event’s dynamic programming.
Throughout the day, a variety of delectable food options were available, ensuring that all attendees had the sustenance needed to fully participate in the diverse activities on offer.
However, the crowning feature of the day was undoubtedly the professional massage services offered by expert therapist Artur Broda. For a charitable donation, attendees could receive a therapeutic massage alongside personalized health insights, contributing both to their well-being and to the cause.
In total, including both on-the-day contributions and online donations, the Exeter branch of the 33rd Grand Finale of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity raised a remarkable £7,600. This sum is part of an even greater total of £35 million raised globally for this vital cause.
The event was a resounding success, demonstrating not only the power of community spirit but also the far-reaching impact of WOŚP’s mission to improve healthcare outcomes for children around the world.
