VE Day Tea Party Looks to Future Remembrance

Lady Rosa Lipworth CBE generously opened her north London home for the occasion, setting the stage for an afternoon of reflection and connection with Holocaust survivors amongst the guests.

The gathering commenced with poignant personal stories as Ella Marks MBE and Judith Hamilton-Masri shared their memories of VE Day. Following these reflections, the focus turned to the vital importance of intergenerational understanding, a principle that directly informs HMDT’s theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2026: ‘Bridging Generations’. This theme was explored in a thoughtful interview between Louisa Clein, actor and member of the second generation, Holocaust survivor Dr Agnes Kaposi MBE and her granddaughter Tabatha Steemson. Their discussion examined the crucial ways in which subsequent generations can preserve and share the powerful narratives and testimonies of Holocaust survivors, ensuring that these lessons of history are never forgotten.

A particularly moving element of the day was the prominent display of the ‘80 Candles for 80 Years’ exhibition – an impactful nationwide arts and education project that features unique candleholders, each a testament to the creativity and dedication of 80 diverse communities and organisations across the UK. Each handcrafted piece draws its inspiration from the individual life story of someone deeply affected by the Holocaust or Nazi persecution. The exhibition stands as a powerful symbol, uniting communities in collective remembrance, honouring those who suffered, and radiating a message of enduring hope. Find out where you can see the exhibition.

Reflecting on the event, HMDT’s CEO, Olivia Marks Woldman OBE said:

“It was a truly special afternoon, bringing together so many dedicated individuals to reflect on the significance of VE Day while also looking ahead to the vital work of remembrance for Holocaust Memorial Day. Lady Lipworth’s generous hospitality created a wonderful atmosphere for connection and reflection and we thank her very much for her on-going support of the charity”.

The afternoon concluded with an appeal from HMDT Chair, Laura Marks CBE, to support the charity’s work to commemorate the Holocaust and recent genocides.