AmCham Thanksgiving Charity Dinner 2025
AmCham Norway welcomed members, partners, and friends to the majestic Hotel Bristol for our annual Thanksgiving Charity Dinner. The evening brought together representatives from Norway’s international business community to celebrate transatlantic friendship, express gratitude, and support a meaningful cause.
Paired with the traditional Thanksgiving meal were California wines Bonterra Estate Collection Chardonnay 2022 and IRONY Pinot Noir 2023. The atmosphere was lively – a fitting setting for fellowship, gratitude, and giving.
This year’s event was generously supported by 3M, KPMG, and MSD, whose commitment helped make the evening possible.
Giving Thanks, Giving Hope
Maria Greenberg Bergheim, Secretary General at UNICEF Norway, delivered a moving, firsthand account from the field, painting a stark picture of life for children in war-torn regions. Generators are powering hospitals and water pumps, and efforts are continuously underway to help the evacuated return to safe and stable lives, including children who have been forcibly removed from Ukraine.
Bergheim expressed that “your trust means the world to us – but even more to the children who rely on our help. Together, we can make a difference for those who need it the most.” She went on to acknowledge that “in challenges too big for governments or NGOs alone, the private sector is essential. Investing in children is not just charity – it is the smartest long-term investment societies and economies can make.”
Minister of Trade & Industry Cecilie Myrseth, a returning guest, addressed the audience with warmth and humor, describing the evening as “the perfect mix of diplomacy, business and gravy!”
She spoke of the deep historical ties between Norway and the United States, the bicentennial anniversary of emigration from Norway to the US, and the continued strength of transatlantic partnership in trade, investment, and innovation.
US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Eric Meyer extended thanks to AmCham, sponsors, donors, and attendees, noting that in an uncertain world, “our alliance is not just ceremonial, it is essential.” He emphasized the two nations’ shared achievements and commitment to a prosperous, secure future rooted in collective strength.
"Our alliance is not just ceremonial, it is essential."
Good Fortune & Winning Bids
Highlights of the evening included the raffle and auction featuring items generously donated by AmCham members and partners.
The raffle featured coveted prizes such as a flight voucher from Icelandair, a one-on-one coaching session from Dale Carnegie Training, and a weekend with a Lucid Air.
The auction sparked excitement with auctioneer extraordinaire Christopher Minora leading the fast-paced bidding round, engaging both seasoned donors and first-time supporters.
Up for auction grabs were prizes such an iconic Coca-Cola minifridge, a 10 kg wheel of Jarlsberg from Tine, VIP tickets to Tons of Rock 2026, and a rare Hard Rock Cafe pin from their recent opening at Jernbanetorget.
Following the raffle and auction, AmCham Norway Managing Director Jason Turflinger proudly announced the record-breaking amount of 135 000 NOK raised in support of UNICEF Norway’s work.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all attendees, partners, sponsors, and donors for making this year’s gathering meaningful and memorable!
Please click on the image to read the letter from UNICEF Norway Secretary General Maria Greenberg Bergheim.
Raffle & Auction Prize Sponsors
