The British Business Forum Kuwait (BBF) hosted its 2026 Poppy Ball on Friday, November 6, at the British Embassy in Kuwait, bringing together 270 guests from the diplomatic community, business sector and wider community for an evening dedicated to remembrance and honouring those who have served in the armed forces.
The event was attended by Her Excellency Sheikha Halah Bader M A J M Al-Sabah, Her Excellency Sheikha Sheikha Salem Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, British Ambassador to Kuwait H.E. Qudsi Rasheed OBE, Canadian Ambassador H.E. Tara Scheurwater and Georgian Ambassador H.E. Noshrevan Lomtatidze.
Opening the evening, Ambassador Rasheed highlighted the importance of remembrance and paying tribute to those who served in the British, Kuwaiti and armed forces of other nations. He also acknowledged the resilience demonstrated by communities during the uncertain period earlier in 2026.
This was followed by an address by BBF Chairman Patrick Jones, who shared personal reflections on the significance of the occasion. The programme featured readings by retired British Army Captain Oliver George Lemarchant Lawrence and retired US Army Staff Sergeant (P) Robert Earl Scott, alongside two video messages from The Veterans Charity in the United Kingdom.
Guests were served a silver-service dinner, while the video messages offered further reflections on the contribution and experiences of veterans.
The event was organised through the collective efforts of the BBF Board, with support from local businesses and sponsors.
Jones expressed his appreciation to Ambassador Rasheed and his wife, Mrs Leen Odeh, for hosting the event in the Embassy gardens and supporting the forum. He also thanked the British Embassy’s events and security teams, the guests, sponsors and all those who contributed to the evening’s organisation.
Special recognition was given to Shouq Al Mulla for producing and editing the event’s video montage. The 2026 Poppy Ball highlighted the spirit of cooperation within Kuwait’s diplomatic, business and wider communities, while reaffirming a shared commitment to remembering and supporting those who have served.
