Carolyn Davidson’s Post

Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai has come to an end. It has been the most amazing experience of my career to be the UK Commissioner General at this phenomenal international event. Expo involved 158 countries and welcomed over 29 million visitors. The UK pavilion has been the heart of UK activity throughout the six months. We served 70,000 portions of fish and chips, many many scones and cups of tea and quite a few whiskies. We have informed, entertained and delighted over 1 million visitors. We have introduced them to UK innovation in clean energy, life sciences, creative industries, to name but a few of the sectors covered during our 16 trade missions. We have hosted ballet dancers, musicians, economists, presidents, prime ministers, mayors, business leaders and thought leaders, from the UK, Japan and everywhere inbetween. But when I say "we" I really mean all the people in this photo with me: the most amazing bunch of colleagues - committed, enthusiastic, multilingual, multi-talented - representing 17 different nationalities; the guides, the security staff, the cleaners, the front of house in restaurant, bar and shop, the managers, the tech team. My thanks to each and everyone of them. It wouldn't have been possible without the support of others too - in Osaka, Tokyo, London and elsewhere - but today I want to salute those who worked on the pavilion. It has been a privilege and an honour to work with you all. Otsukaresamadeshita! Evie McDermott Iain Cox Frances Smythe Molly Learoyd-Hurst Shannon Kissane Evan Jones Sam Maddicott Makiko Wilson Matthew Ellis