Fez — What began as a 50-year milestone for the British–Moroccan Society quickly turned into something more forward-facing in Casablanca, as diplomats, business leaders, and charity organizers used the anniversary gathering to outline concrete plans for education projects in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.
Rather than dwelling on history, speakers throughout the evening focused on partnership, continuity, and measurable impact — from funding a school in a remote village to supporting girls’ access to reusable menstrual kits that help prevent classroom absences.
As the Society transitions into new leadership while maintaining strong diplomatic backing, the gala signaled not just longevity, but an intention to convert influence and networks into tangible support on the ground.
Ambassador highlights strong UK–Morocco ties
Among those present at the Hyatt Regency Casablanca evening was Alex Pinfield, British Ambassador to Morocco, who described the anniversary as a “fantastic achievement.”
“It’s my honor to be here at today’s event celebrating the 50th anniversary of the British Moroccan Society,” Pinfield told Morocco World News (MWN). “It’s a fantastic achievement to have reached 50 years, and the work that the British Moroccan Society does supports cultural exchange and charity work between our countries.”
He added that the UK–Morocco relationship is “in a strong place, going from strength to strength,” expressing confidence that with the Society’s ongoing work, “the future looks bright.”
Business community voices support
Stephen Orr, President of the British Chamber of Commerce in Morocco, also attended the event and praised the Society’s long-standing contribution.
“I’m very proud and honored to be here together with the British Moroccan Society celebrating their 50th anniversary,” Orr told MWN, congratulating the organization on what he described as 50 years of good work in Morocco.
Said Orfi, co-manager of Howden Insurance Morocco, echoed those sentiments, noting his company has been part of the BMS journey for two years.
“We love what BMS has been doing here in Morocco. We wish them all the support… and we’ll certainly be supporting BMS for the years to come,” Orfi said.
Leadership transition and fundraising goals
Mike Wood, Chairman of BMS, reflected on the Society’s history and its charitable mission. “We are celebrating 50 years of our society,” he told MWN. “Over that time, we’ve held an awful lot of fun events… and we’ve also raised an awful lot of money for charity.”
Meanwhile, Mina Matoui, Chairwoman of BMS in Morocco and committee member in the UK, emphasized the evening’s specific objective. “We’re here to fundraise for a school in one of the Atlas villages that we have been helping for a number of years,” she said, expressing hope that construction would be completed before the end of the year.
The event also marked a leadership transition, with Graham Lyon introduced as the new British Society chair. Calling it his first gala in Casablanca, Lyon thanked sponsors including Burger King, Hurya, Travel Link, and AFG ADP Advisory and Finance Group. He described the gathering as a strong networking opportunity and reaffirmed the Society’s commitment to raising funds for charitable causes in Morocco.
As the British–Moroccan Society enters its sixth decade, the anniversary gala highlighted not only its diplomatic and cultural role, but also its continued focus on tangible projects — particularly in education — aimed at supporting communities in Morocco’s Atlas region.
