Foreign Sisters UK
Royal Opera House - Foreign Sisters Lunch 2023
Foreign Sisters Annual Lunch
Foreign Sisters was founded by Lady Palumbo in 2007 under the umbrella of Cancer Research UK's National Events Committee. Their objective is to mobilise a dynamic and powerful group of high-profile international women in the UK, to raise awareness of Cancer Research UK's vision and to help make it a reality by supporting the vital work of its scientists and doctors.
Over the past 17 years, Foreign Sisters has raised over £2.5m for Cancer Research UK through an annual luncheon attended by women from over 60 countries, based or living in London. They have previously raised £1m to fund a laboratory of their own within the Francis Crick Institute. The Foreign Sisters now raise vital funds for our future leaders programme which invests in the rising stars of scientific research, supporting them to make new discoveries, drive progress in tests and treatments, and offer hope to people affected by cancer everywhere.
The annual Foreign Sisters Lunch will be returning to The Royal Opera House on Thursday 8 May
Tables of 10 cost £2,500
A limited number of individual tickets are also available
For more information, please contact philanthropy.events@cancer.org.uk
Foreign Sisters Annual Lunch 2025
Date: Thursday 8 May
Venue: The Royal Opera House
Tickets and tables sold out!
To join the marketing list for next year’s event please get in touch
The Lily of the Valley
The Lily of the Valley is the emblem of the Foreign Sisters. This May flower represents the renewed hope that Cancer Research UK offers each time a breakthrough is achieved, and symbolises the friendship and community of Foreign Sisters.
Foreign Sisters Lunch 2023
In May 2024, 280 guests attended the annual Foreign Sisters Lunch at the Royal Opera House, raising over £270,000 for life-saving cancer research. Guests enjoyed a drinks reception on the beautiful terrace overlooking Covent Garden, followed by a two-course lunch in the stunning Paul Hamlyn Hall.
Guests heard from inspirational speaker the Duchess of York, who shared her own personal experience of cancer and how vital the funding of scientific research is. The funds raised at the 2024 Lunch will support and nurture early career researchers, allowing them to build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills at a pivotal point in their development.
