A Tribute to Manfred Goldberg MBE
“I’m only a drop in the ocean. But I’ve made up my mind that as long as God gives me the strength, physical and mental, to continue doing it, I have committed myself to keep on doing it. So that’s why I’m here at age 94, speaking to you.” Manfred Goldberg
The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust is deeply saddened by the news of Manfred Goldberg’s passing and honours his remarkable life, experiences and commitment to Holocaust education. We are immensely grateful for his unflagging efforts and mourn his loss greatly.
Manfred dedicated his life to Holocaust education, determined not to let what happened to him and his family be forgotten. During a talk at Burton Borough School in 2025 as part of our Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) activities, he said, “My purpose for coming here is because what happened must never be forgotten, in order to make sure it can never ever happen again.”
Manfred also supported the Trust’s 80 Candles for 80 Years initiative, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. As part of this exhibition, pupils presented His Majesty King Charles III, our Patron, and Manfred with their candles at Buckingham Palace in January 2025, honouring the lives of survivors and those affected by the Holocaust.
In June 2025, His Majesty The King recognised and honoured Manfred’s dedication to Holocaust remembrance and education of the next generation by awarding him an MBE.
Sir Sajid Javid, Chair of Holocaust Memorial Day Trust:
“I had the privilege of meeting Manfred Goldberg several times and was always struck by his warmth, wisdom and courage. By sharing his story, he turned pain into strength and inspired generations – from classrooms to Buckingham Palace. We will honour his legacy by ensuring his voice continues to educate and inspire for years to come.”
Olivia Marks-Woldman, Chief Executive Officer of Holocaust Memorial Day Trust:
“I am heartbroken by the passing of Manfred Goldberg MBE. It was an honour to know Manfred, and a privilege to have worked alongside him in our shared commitment to Holocaust commemoration and education.
Manfred was a true gentleman. Always courteous, impeccably dressed, and deeply committed to sharing his experiences of childhood and during the Holocaust, he helped to reach hundreds of thousands of people, in person and online. Manfred inspired everyone he met, and his memory and legacy will continue to inspire us at the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust for years to come.
Manfred carried himself with the same grace, humility and ease, whether he was speaking in a local school or visiting No. 10 Downing Street – I suppose meeting several Prime Ministers would help!
Manfred’s history and work even inspired the Royal Family. In 2017, he escorted the then HRHs The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge around the Stutthof concentration camp, and in 2022, he featured in a commemorative exhibition, Seven Portraits, in The Queen’s Gallery, commissioned by our Patron, the then HRH The Prince of Wales.
Earlier this year, I was hugely proud to showcase the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust’s 80 Candles for 80 Years exhibition at Buckingham Palace to Manfred alongside our Patron, HM King Charles III.
Manfred was steadfastly supported by his wonderful wife Shary and family; our hearts are with them all. Thank you, Manfred, for your lifelong commitment and dedication. We will continue to honour your legacy through Holocaust education and remembrance.”