In an era where corporate social responsibility is gaining significant traction, the partnership between E.Wedel and the Omenaa Mensah Foundation stands as a stellar example of how businesses can contribute positively to society. E.Wedel, Poland's renowned chocolate manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1851, has joined forces with the Omenaa Mensah Foundation to drive impactful social initiatives. This collaboration not only exemplifies corporate philanthropy but also highlights the importance of supporting education and social development.

E.Wedel: A legacy of excellence

E.Wedel is a name synonymous with quality chocolate in Poland. Established by Karol Wedel, the company has grown from a small confectionery shop to a leading brand in the chocolate industry. Known for its high quality products, E.Wedel has consistently maintained its commitment to quality and innovation. Over the decades, the company has become a beloved brand name, offering a wide range of chocolates, from classic pralines to innovative treats made with cocoa from Ghana.

Cocoa from Ghana is a key ingredient in our chocolate, characterized by the unique, deep and distinctive flavor of the local variety. Cocoa from this country is a valued raw material on the international market due to its high quality. E.Wedel works with trusted suppliers who also care about sustainable cocoa farming and provide decent working conditions for their employees. Due to this connection with Ghana for years, and in order to actively contribute to this country's development, we support the Omenaa Foundation organization, thanks to which we have the opportunity to bring real help to the community there.

Omenaa Mensah Foundation: A vision for a better future

The Omenaa Mensah Foundation, founded by the celebrated Polish-Ghanaian TV presenter and entrepreneur Omenaa Mensah, is dedicated to supporting education and social development, particularly in Africa and Poland. The foundation's mission is to provide educational opportunities for children, youth and those in need, empowering them to create a better future for themselves and their communities. Through various initiatives, the foundation has made significant strides in building schools, providing scholarships, and supporting educational programs.

A partnership with a purpose

The collaboration between E.Wedel and the Omenaa Mensah Foundation is rooted in a shared commitment to social responsibility and community development. This partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both organizations to create meaningful and lasting impact. Here are some key aspects of their cooperation.

Educational projects in Africa
One of the cornerstone initiatives of this partnership is the construction and support of educational facilities in underserved regions. In Ghana, the Omenaa Mensah Foundation has been actively involved in building schools that provide a safe and conducive learning environment for children. E.Wedel's involvement has amplified these efforts, providing financial support and resources to accelerate the completion of these projects.

Responding to one of the country's biggest social problems, the company contributed to the opening of a Kids Haven School facility in Ghana's Tema in September 2021. As a result of this commitment, the company's long-term cooperation with the foundation began. E.Wedel's involvement consisted not only in donating funds, but also in carrying out campaigns to raise further funds for the expansion of the school, for example, “Every shirt helps” (the sales of shirts inspired by E. Wedel chocolates designed by well-known fashion designer Maciej Zień) or the charitable sales of Chocosquezze in the Rossmann drugstore chain.

The school is located next to the “CHILD PROTECTION CENTER”, so it is attended by the children who are in a dramatic life situation and who otherwise would have no chance for education. Thanks to the foundation, the facility provides classes conducted by volunteers from Poland and teachers from Ghana, as well as a number of other educational initiatives, i.e. excursions and art classes and meetings with representatives of local institutions.

Since 2021, the school's infrastructure has been improved, and E.Wedel invariably participates in this process. The most recent example of joint efforts between the company and the foundation is the education and relaxation room, where children can take part in sensory activities, have meetings with therapists or simply spend time playing. The room was also designed to stimulate creativity. Under the guidance of Ghanaian artisans, the children will create their own artwork here. It also addresses the social and economic needs in Africa to provide residents with skills and qualifications for work, thereby fostering entrepreneurship among them.

The children are already using their new space, and E.Wedel is working together with the foundation on further initiatives - in response to the current needs of the wards, E.Wedel has provided the school with equipment for the sports room.

Projects in Poland

E.Wedel also supports the Omenaa Foundation in Poland, directing assistance to the Warsaw-based Rio Edu Center, which currently houses refugees from Ukraine (mainly mothers with children) who arrived in Poland as a result of the war. While the adults are taking part in career counseling courses and gaining assistance in finding jobs after leaving Ukraine, their children are benefiting from educational and developmental activities under the supervision of qualified pedagogical staff and animators. The role of the latter is also played by E.Wedel volunteers, who, among other things, conducted chocolate workshops, introducing the fascinating world of chocolate production. Children were able to take on the role of decorators and decorators of “Torcik Wedlowski”.

Community engagement and awareness
Raising awareness about the importance of education and community support is another critical component of this partnership. Through joint campaigns, E.Wedel and the Omenaa Mensah Foundation have engaged the public, encouraging them to contribute to the cause. These campaigns highlight the impact of education on individuals and communities, inspiring people to get involved.
E.Wedel has also used its platform to promote the foundation’s work, integrating messages of social responsibility into its marketing strategies. This not only enhances the brand’s image but also spreads the foundation's mission to a wider audience.

Employee involvement and volunteerism
E.Wedel’s employees have played a crucial role in the partnership, volunteering their time and skills to support the foundation’s initiatives. From participating in fundraising events to the employees' involvement has added a personal touch to the collaboration. This engagement has also fostered a sense of pride and purpose among the employees, strengthening their connection to the company.

With pleasure for the future

The partnership between E.Wedel and the Omenaa Mensah Foundation has already yielded significant results. Dozens of children in Ghana now have access to quality education,. E.Wedel supports the Omenaa Foundation in a multidimensional and long-term way, and the assistance provided knows no boundaries and responds to the real, current needs of the wards. E.Wedel provides financial resources, volunteering and product donations (recently more than 1,800 kg of sweets were delivered to the wards of the centers run by the foundation!)

Looking ahead, both E.Wedel and the Omenaa Mensah Foundation are committed to expanding their efforts. Plans are in place to launch new educational programs, and increase public engagement. The partnership aims to create a sustainable model of corporate social responsibility that other businesses can emulate.

In conclusion, the collaboration between E.Wedel and the Omenaa Mensah Foundation is a shining example of how businesses can contribute to social good. By focusing on education and community development, both organizations are making a tangible difference in the lives of many. This partnership not only reflects the values of both but also serves as an inspiration for others to follow suit. Through their combined efforts, E.Wedel and the Omenaa Mensah Foundation are truly contributing to a real change.