We are a non-profit charitable organisation based in England.
Over the past 13 years, more than 15,000 people have taken part in our events.
Whether for children, adults, or families, we turn culture into experience, building new communities and enriching the world’s cultural heritage in the United Kingdom.
Strengthening the internationally inspiring role of our culture
Through a range of events held in the UK and cross-border online programmes, our aim is to present the richness and diversity of Hungarian culture—both artistic heritage and its modern creative expressions. We are committed to building meaningful cultural connections by creating opportunities for collaboration between Hungarian and international artists, encouraging dialogue, and promoting cultural exchange. Our programmes celebrate traditions while embracing innovation, ensuring that Hungarian culture remains dynamic, relevant, and globally influential.
By reaching a broad and diverse audience, we aim to strengthen cultural ties, spark curiosity, and nurture lasting recognition of Hungary’s creativity and artistic excellence.
Our organisation was founded in 2011 by Attila Kubánda and István Olivér Fátyol, and became a registered charity in the UK in 2013.
Sadly, Attila did not live to see this, as he and his fiancée lost their lives in a tragic car accident in 2012. Their warm personalities and passionate dedication to the Hungarian community in London will never be forgotten, and part of our foundation’s work stands as a tribute to their memory.
For Hungarian Culture in the United Kingdom
Our charity was honoured with the prestigious "For Hungarian Culture in the United Kingdom" award by the Balassi Institute in 2014. This recognition acknowledges our ongoing commitment to promoting and preserving Hungarian culture in the UK, celebrating our efforts in cultural diplomacy and community engagement.
Boldizsár Acsai former leader of the Hunique Dance Ensemble and a member of our board of trustees, has been honoured with the Dr László Timaffy Award for his outstanding contribution to Hungarian culture in the UK.
Beáta Verbászi, member of our board of trustees and founder and chairwoman of the Hungarian Poetry Reciters’ Association in England, was honoured with the Radnóti Award and the Kaleidoszkóp Award in the performing arts category.
We carry out our work in our free time
Taking responsibility for achieving the foundation’s goals, managing its assets, and ensuring its operations comply with the law.
István Olivér Fátyol served as a founding member and chairman of the foundation from 2012 to 2025, playing a pivotal role in shaping the Hungarian Culture and Heritage Society’s mission and expanding its influence.
Throughout his leadership, Olivér worked tirelessly to enhance the reputation of the organisation, helping to foster a deep sense of community and connection among its members and partners.
Under his guidance, the nonprofit evolved into a vibrant hub for Hungarian culture in the UK, executing a wide array of successful projects and collaborations that promoted
Hungarian traditions, arts, and heritage to a diverse audience. Since its establishment in 2011, the foundation has grown significantly, becoming one of the most prominent and respected institutions in the Hungarian cultural scene in the UK, with a lasting impact on both the local community and the broader cultural landscape. Oliver stepped down from his leadership role this year, but his expertise and vast experience continue to serve the charity’s work.
Erika is one of the foundation's first members and the most dedicated organiser of our events. As one of the founding board members, she has not only contributed her invaluable experience and extensive network, but also her boundless energy and kindness.
Erika selflessly dedicates her time and effort to anyone who seeks her help, consistently going above and beyond for the foundation’s cause.
Over the past 13 years, she has been responsible for organising key events such as our annual Carnival, Easter, and Christmas celebrations, as well as overseeing the planning and execution of some of our largest craft fairs and festivals.
Erika also plays a pivotal role in creating historical programs, organising special events like craft days and cultural celebrations, and coordinating a wide range of activities that promote Hungarian culture.
Her ability to make everything run smoothly and successfully, combined with her warm and approachable nature, has earned her the deep respect and affection of all who work with her.
It’s no surprise that within the foundation, Erika is affectionately known as the "mother of the foundation"—a testament to her nurturing, selfless spirit and the immense impact she has had on our community. Her dedication and meticulous attention to detail ensure that every event she organises is not only a success but also a joyful, memorable experience for everyone involved.
Boldizsár has been a key figure in promoting Hungarian culture and folk dance in the UK, playing a central role in bringing together the local Hungarian community through a variety of cultural initiatives. He was one of the main organisers behind three consecutive Hungarian Cultural Festivals, where he successfully brought together numerous Hungarian dance groups, creating a celebration of Hungarian heritage that became a significant annual event. This remarkable effort helped strengthen the bonds between the local Hungarian community and promoted Hungarian traditions in the broader cultural landscape of the UK.
Boldizsár’s dance journey began in Hungary, where he was a core member of the Csobolyó Folk Dance Ensemble in Győrújbarát, a role he held for 15 years. His deep commitment to Hungarian folk traditions and his extensive performance experience laid the foundation for his continued work in the cultural field. In 2008, Boldizsár moved to London, where he continued to deepen his passion for folk dance while actively contributing to the cultural life of the Hungarian community there.
In 2015, Boldizsár took over the leadership of the Hunique Dance Ensemble, which had already been successfully operating in London for seven years. Under his guidance, the group flourished, growing into a dynamic and dedicated community of over 50 members. Boldizsár's leadership ensured the continuous development of the ensemble, fostering an environment of creativity and collaboration that has become a hallmark of the group. His dedication to preserving Hungarian traditions, paired with his commitment to the ensemble’s growth, has made him a prominent figure in London’s Hungarian cultural life.
In recognition of his tireless work and significant contributions to Hungarian culture, Boldizsár Acsai was awarded the Dr. László Timaffy Prize for his efforts in promoting Hungarian culture in the UK. His work continues to inspire and strengthen the community, leaving a lasting impact on Hungarian cultural expression in the diaspora.
Anita has long been immersed in the world of folk dance and Hungarian traditions, making culture and community a central part of her life.
With nearly 35 years of dance experience, 10 years of teaching expertise, and 7 years of leadership experience, she has become a respected figure in the Hungarian folk dance community. Anita’s journey in dance began in Hungary, where she was a key member of the prestigious Halas Dance Ensemble and later the Szeged Dance Ensemble for an impressive 20 years. These formative years shaped her deep understanding of Hungarian folk dance and solidified her passion for preserving these traditions.
Since moving to the UK, Anita has continued to share her knowledge and enthusiasm for folk dance as an instructor with the London-based Hunique Dance Ensemble, where she teaches both beginner and advanced groups. Her commitment to fostering a love for Hungarian culture through dance has enriched the community, creating a space for individuals of all ages to connect with their heritage.
From 2018 to 2025, Anita took on the role of leader of the Hunique Dance Ensemble, a position in which she not only guided the group’s artistic direction but also helped to elevate the ensemble’s quality and organisational standards. Under her leadership, the group became one of the most respected Hungarian folk dance ensembles in the UK, operating at the same high level of professionalism as amateur folk dance groups in Hungary.
Her contributions to the folk dance community in the UK have not only enriched the lives of those involved but have also helped bridge the gap between Hungary and the diaspora, ensuring that Hungarian traditions remain alive and vibrant for years to come. For Anita, folk dance is not just a passion—it’s a way of life that ties her to the past, the present, and the future of Hungarian culture.
Beata is the Founder and chairwoman of the Hungarian Recitation Association in England.
Beáta is a Radnóti Award-winning performing artist, for whom stage art is a true passion. She has tested her skills at numerous international recitation competitions representing the Hungarian Recitation Association of Vojvodina.
She has also performed several solo recitation shows, which she has presented in several countries across the Carpathian Basin as well as in the United States.
Since 2015, she has been actively participating in literary events in the United Kingdom, enriching the cultural life.
AWARDS
Beáta has organised the József Attila Poetry and Prose Recitation Competition in London six times so far. On average, around 40 participants take part each year. The one-day event focuses on nurturing and celebrating our mother tongue and Hungarian literature, bringing together those who love literature and those eager to perform on stage. The competition features a distinguished panel of judges, who evaluate the contestants, while the day is concluded with a lively gala performance before the award ceremony.
This event plays a vital role in strengthening the Hungarian community in the UK, whether through schools or individuals. It offers a unique opportunity for people of all ages to connect with their cultural roots and share their passion for literature.
WITH GRATITUDE
Attila KubándaThe founder of the foundation, who dreamed up and then created this community on May 3, 2011, with the vision of promoting Hungarian culture in London, Europe’s largest multicultural capital. Attila’s tragic death posed a great emotional and spiritual challenge for the foundation. Thanks to his friend and co-founder Olivér Fátyol István and the foundation’s members, Attila’s dream lives on.
Anita Lusánszky Former secretary of the foundation (2013–2025), who played a very important role in the foundation’s life. Beyond her secretarial duties, she contributed to promoting and advertising the foundation’s programs, as well as handling administrative tasks. She was responsible for several successful grant applications that proved essential for the organisation’s development.
Gellért Szabó He was the male dance instructor for the Hunique Dance Ensemble (2022–2024). He taught the beginner/intermediate group on a weekly basis and regularly took part in performances. With his many years of dance experience and deeply dedicated personality, the ensemble owes a great deal to Gellért.
Vilmos Hatházi Vilmos Hatházi led the advanced dance rehearsals of the Hunique Dance Ensemble (2017–2020). He was a professional dancer with the Transylvanian Háromszék Dance Ensemble for many years. He originally learned the basics of dance through ballet. Beyond teaching dance, Vilmos also choreographed pieces for the ensemble. He regularly participates in performances as a dancer and teaches at dance houses.
Andrea Pál She played a major role for several years in organizing the Family Day children’s events run under the foundation. Andrea’s creativity and diligence greatly contributed to raising the quality of family programs to a higher level, which was especially appreciated by the Hungarian families in London.
Melinda Kelemen For many years, she was co-organizer of the Family Day program series alongside Erika Gyugyei. Beyond organising and hosting duties, Melinda significantly supported the organisation’s programs by handling administrative tasks as well.
László Sipos He played a consistent supporting role in the foundation’s family programs. Laszlo was an essential part of every Family Day event. He always took a leading role in managing volunteers and ensured the successful execution of the events.
