Under the theme “The Age of Reimagination. Art, Business and Philanthropy,” the anniversary edition of TOP CHARITY ChangeMAKERS 2026 brought together global leaders, innovators, philanthropists and policymakers in Warsaw for a high-level dialogue on artificial intelligence, responsible leadership, the future of states and Africa’s growing role in the global economy.

Organised by Omenaa Mensah and Rafał Brzoska, the event gained historic significance with the first-ever visit to Poland by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, one of Africa’s most influential traditional leaders. His presence elevated discussions on leadership, cultural diplomacy and the future of Europe–Africa partnerships.

Held as part of the internationally acclaimed TOP CHARITY initiative, ChangeMAKERS 2026 served as a platform for dialogue across business, technology, culture, diplomacy and philanthropy. This year’s edition emphasized the need to redefine leadership beyond economic growth, placing responsibility, education, innovation, culture and long-term social impact at its core.

Africa at the Centre of Global Opportunity

A key focus of the event was Africa’s emergence as one of the world’s most promising regions for investment, innovation and international cooperation. Discussions highlighted the continent’s youthful demographic profile, rapidly expanding digital economy and the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

In a powerful keynote address, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II presented Africa not as a recipient of aid, but as a strategic partner for global growth. He emphasized shared values between Africa and Poland, including resilience, identity, family, faith and national dignity.

“Poland knows what it means to defend its identity. Poland knows what it means to rise after adversity. Africa knows these values too. Ghana knows them. Today, we are called not only to remember, but also to build the future,” the Asantehene said.

The King’s visit also symbolized a renewed commitment to strengthening relations between Poland and Ghana, reviving historic educational, diplomatic and cultural connections that date back to the 1960s.

Distinguished Global Voices

The event welcomed an influential group of international speakers and guests, including:

Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz
Aleksander Kwaśniewski
Andrzej Domański
Åsa Regnér
Martin Vohánka
Representatives of Goldman Sachs and ElevenLabs
Marwan Zakhem
Clare Maguire

Speaking at the event, Åsa Regnér highlighted UNESCO’s ongoing commitment to Africa, particularly in education, gender equality and sustainable development.

Rebuilding Historic Connections

Reflecting on the significance of the moment, Omenaa Mensah noted that the visit carried personal and historical meaning.

“My late father, who came from the Asante lineage, arrived in Poland to study medicine in the 1960s, at a time when Poland and Ghana were building their first educational and cultural bridges. This is a story of people, education and relationships that are worth reclaiming today,” she said.

The African dimension of TOP CHARITY was also reflected through cultural initiatives, including the award-winning pavilion “Redefining. Polish-Ghanaian Textile Narratives,” presented by the OmenaArt Foundation at the Malta Biennale. Inspired by the philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because we are” — the project celebrated historical solidarity and future cooperation between Poland and Ghana.

A Growing Global Impact

Established in 2022 in response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, TOP CHARITY has evolved into a year-round platform connecting business, culture, diplomacy and philanthropy. Over four editions, the initiative has raised nearly PLN 150 million to support educational, social and humanitarian projects in Poland and abroad.

Its impact includes:

Supporting more than 1,200 children and young people in Polish children’s homes.
Providing educational assistance to over 7,000 students.
Helping rescue nearly 580 children from slave labour in Ghana.
Funding scholarships and development programmes for 99 Polish students at leading international universities.

According to Rafał Brzoska, Africa represents one of the most significant opportunities for future Polish economic engagement.

“The historic visit of the King of Asante during TOP CHARITY ChangeMAKERS 2026 symbolizes a new opening—one based on respect, cooperation, investment and responsible social impact,” he said.

A Symbol of the Future

Hosted in the historic interiors of the Zamoyski Palace, the event welcomed 350 guests from Poland and around the world. More than a gathering of leaders, TOP CHARITY ChangeMAKERS 2026 became a symbol of a new era of cooperation between Poland and Ghana, Europe and Africa, demonstrating how philanthropy, business, technology and culture can come together to shape a more connected and inclusive future.

Asantehene Boosts Poland-Ghana Relationship for TOP CHARITY ChangeMAKERS 2026

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