“Don’t Give Money, Give Your Time, Give Yourself” – 6th Conservative Ladies’ Breakfast with H.E. Zsuzsanna Nagy

In a world where financial donations and large charity events often dominate conversations about philanthropy, a powerful message emerged from our latest Conservative Ladies’ Breakfast: true support goes beyond money and many times is happening rather quietly. It was an absolute honor and great pleasure to welcome H.E. Zsuzsanna Nagy, wife of the Hungarian President, Dr. Tamás Sulyok, as our distinguished guest to our 6th Conservative Ladies’ Breakfast. This inspiring event, organized in collaboration with the Foundation for a Civic Hungary, focused on the theme of volunteering and was titled “Helping Helpers.”

Gathering more than 40 accomplished women from diverse sectors – including several Ambassadors and high-ranking representatives from the public and private domain – the event provided an opportunity for meaningful discussion on the significance of volunteering and the necessity of supporting both professional and non-professional caretakers. As a mental hygienist and family therapist, Madam Zsuzsanna knows how great everyone’s need is for connection, acceptance, and listening. For the past two decades she has worked as mental health specialist and family therapist, a lot as a volunteer: in kindergardens, in child and adult psychiatry, and as a family supporter.

Madam Zsuzsanna passionately shared her insights on the importance of mental health protection, underscoring the essential role of those who dedicate themselves to caregiving. Whether they are trained professionals or individuals providing care out of love and duty, their well-being is often overlooked. As Hungary’s First Lady, Madam Zsuzsanna has made it a priority to advocate for these unsung heroes, emphasizing the need for community support and active engagement which go beyond financial contributions.

Her words struck a deep chord with the audience, sparking engaging conversations about the various possibilities and also the personal fulfillment that comes from offering one’s time and presence. The discussion reinforced a universal truth: while donations are valuable, it is the personal involvement, empathy, and dedication of individuals that create lasting change in the lives of those in need.

This event also aligns closely with the values and mission of CDI’s Lady Ambassadors’ Charity Initiative, which, in cooperation with the Hungarian Association of the Order of Malta, aims to facilitate regular visits to the institutions of the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta and to enable engagement in charitable activities therewith. Through such visits, the participants gather valuable insights and also show their appreciation and respect to those who dedicate their lives to caring for the most vulnerable – be it the elderly, the sick, or the poor. This collaboration reflects a profound commitment to hands-on humanitarian support, emphasizing the power of presence overmaterial assistance.

This breakfast was more than just an exchange of ideas and wonderful conversations – it was also a call to action as each one of us has the power to make a difference by being present, by listening, and by offering our time to those who need it most. Let’s not forget that true generosity is not measured in money but in the willingness to give a piece of ourselves to others.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to H.E. Zsuzsanna Nagy for her inspiring words and unwavering commitment to this cause. And to all the remarkable women who attended, thank you for your dedication to making the world a more compassionate place – one act of kindness at a time.