Omenaa Mensah is a visionary who has transformed her public image into a force for social good. As a successful businesswoman and well-known Polish television personality, she chose to channel her influence into meaningful humanitarian work by founding three charitable organizations: the Omenaa Foundation, which focuses on supporting children and youth; the OmenaArt Foundation, dedicated to promoting contemporary art and empowering artists; and the Philanthropic Consortium – an initiative launched alongside TOP CHARITY, which provides grants to other foundations around the world and promotes a spirit of collaboration over competition in the realm of giving.
Jacket and body: DIOR; Necklace in white gold with diamonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Artwork: Tony Cragg, Current Version, 2009, OPERA GALLERY, PARIS
Driven by a deep sense of purpose, Omenaa turned her career achievements into opportunities for change – most notably by building the Kids Haven School and next to it SportCArt Complex in Ghana, providing education and hope to children in need. Together with her husband, Rafał Brzoska, she cocreated the award winning initiative TOP CHARITY, a unique philanthropic network that unites contemporary art collectors, socially engaged entrepreneurs, and advocates for underprivileged youth.
In this interview, we speak with Omenaa Mensah about vision, leadership, and how passion for art and social justice can shape a better future.
Jacket and dress: UNGARO; Long chain and ring in white gold: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLER.
GUCCI; Turban: MAISON VIRGINIE; Rings and bracelets in white gold with diamonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Artwork: Pablo Atchugarry, Untitled, 2023, OPERA GALLERY, PARIS
L’O: When did you realise you wanted to use
your platform to help underprivileged children?
Omenaa Mensah: Ten years ago, I travelled to Ghana to meet my father’s family and reconnect with my roots, which trace back to the royal Ashanti lineage. He had come to Poland in the 1970s on a scholarship granted by the Polish government to study medicine.
During that visit, I witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by local communities. As a young woman raised in a family where education was a deeply cherished value, I felt a strong calling to take action. I began raising funds to build a school for street children in Ghana and to support orphans in Poland and across Europe.
At the time, convincing the Polish public to support a cause focused on Africa wasn’t easy. During this journey, I was fortunate to meet an incredible businessman, Rafał Brzoska, who would later become my husband. He is the founder of InPost, a Polish logistics company that revolutionised the European parcel delivery market with its innovative network of automated parcel lockers.
Today, InPost is the third-largest logistics company in Europe, with a strong presence not only in Poland but also in France, where in 2021, under Rafał’s leadership, the company acquired Mondial Relay, the second-largest logistics operator in the country, for 513 million Euro. It was the largest private foreign investment ever made by a Polish company. InPost now operates across the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg.
What brought us together was more than shared ambition – it was shared values. We both deeply believe in using our success and influence to create meaningful social impact. That’s why creating the TOP CHARITY initiative felt like a natural step for both of us. It’s an expression of our joint mission to connect business, art, and philanthropy in a way that truly makes a difference.
Neither of us will ever forget our humble beginnings – he as an entrepreneur, and I as a television personality eager to make a real difference with my public voice. Our shared desire to give back brought us together, and with hard work and dedication, we succeeded in all the causes we are proud to support
Suit and body: GIADA; Turban: MAISON VIRGINIE; Earrings and long necklace in rose gold with diamonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Artwork: Ron Arad, Bodyguard (solid), 2008, OPERA GALLERY, PARIS
L’O: In your opinion, why is the business world increasingly sensitive to philanthropic initiatives?
OM: Today, the most important values have changed. It’s no longer just about making money but also about how we live, what drives us, and what we wish to leave behind. The new generation of entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds is no longer content with simply accumulating material possessions; they care about others and prioritize sharing with those in need. I was raised in a family where this mindset was part of everyday life.
WHEN YOU are successful, THE LEAST YOU CAN DO is help others reach THEIR HAPPINESS.
True success MEANS GIVING BACK.
Thanks to a scholarship from the Polish government, my father was able to study in Europe and became a highly respected cardiothoracic surgeon. My mother studied environmental protection and became a water and sanitation systems engineer and an architect. They flourished thanks to the support of strong public services that were avail- able at the time.
However, many European governments face very different, often urgent priorities today. As a result, non-governmental organizations like ours have become essential, especially in education. In Ghana, we are giving street kids a chance to start their first school; in Poland, at Rio Edu Centrum, we are providing Ukrainian mothers and children with a safe place that offers educational, psychological and legal support; and all around the world – through the Rafał Brzoska Foundation – we are empowering talented youth by enabling access to world-class education and personal development opportunities.
When one achieves success, whether as an artist, a lawyer, an entrepreneur, or, like me, a public figure, it is important to share a part of that success with those who haven’t had the same opportunities. When you are successful, the least you can do is help others reach their happiness. True success means giving back.
Jacket and dress: UNGARO; Boots: CAZABAT; Long chain and medallion in white gold with diamonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Artwork: Manolo Valdés, Golden Reina Mariana, 2020, OPERA GALLERY, PARIS
L’O: Could you tell us more about your connection to African children?
OM: My situation is unique, as I am of mixed race. I love Poland. Yet, as a person of colour, there were times in my youth when I felt very lonely, sometimes even unwelcome. But it didn’t make me lose my spirit; on the contrary, it made me stronger. My first trip to Africa was a truly transformative experience. I didn’t go with specific expectations, but I had a clear vision: to confront the issue of street children in Ghana – my father’s country of origin – many of whom live in conditions akin to modern-day slavery. During that journey, I also discovered the extraordinary creativity of African artists. Repurposing. Redefined. This is how some of African artists are transforming waste into powerful works of art, challenging our perception of beauty, sustainability, and value. I saw that in African art, and it deeply touched me.
ONE OF THE MOST delicate moments is helping CHILDREN UNDERSTAND that we are not THERE TO TAKE them away into yet ANOTHER FORM of captivity – but free THEM.
In families with six or seven children, basic resources are often scarce, and young ones are forced into labour without pay. I couldn’t turn a blind eye to this. As an educated woman with African roots fortunate enough to grow up in Europe, I felt a moral obligation to act – to use my resources and voice to make a difference. My father once gave me invaluable advice that shaped my entire approach: “When you go to Africa, never showcase the continent’s poverty. Never show children with distended bellies and flies on their faces. Instead, show its beauty. Show its potential.” That deeply resonated with me. I realised that my greatest contribution could be in education – because that is what is truly lacking and has the power to change lives.
I hold a university degree in economics and have completed doctoral studies in economics and social policy at the Warsaw School of Economics. Building on this academic foundation, I plan to write my doctoral dissertation on Africa’s neo-colonial legacy, a topic that remains critically important to understanding the continent’s present challenges and future opportunities. When you are successful, the least you can do is help those less fortunate.
Picture on the left- Top and skirt: GUCCI; Turban: MAISON VIRGINIE; Bag: TJ HOLDMAN; Earrings in white gold with diamonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Artwork: Pablo Atchugarry, Untitled, 2023, OPERA GALLERY, PARIS. Picture on the right- Coat, body and trousers: GUCCI; Turban: MAISON VIRGINIE; Sunglasses: LINDA FARROW; Necklace in rose gold with diomonds and precious stones, and bracelets in white gold with diomonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY
L’O: Could you explain how the Kids Haven School, created with funds raised by the Omenaa Foundation, operates?
OM: Construction of the Kids Haven School began in April 2017 and took 1.610 days to complete. The school was officially inaugurated on September 4, 2021. Located in Tema, just 25 kilometres east of Ghana’s capital, Accra, it now provides a safe and nurturing environment for sixty children aged between four and seventeen. They live in secure, gender-separated housing and follow individualised educational programs tailored to their age, personal experiences, and educational background. When these children arrive, some are as young as four and a half – many have already endured the unimaginable: forced labour, exploitation, and even modern-day slavery. These are not just tragic statistics. Behind every number is a child with a name, a story, and a right to a better future.
Last year alone, we carried out eleven rescue missions, saving children from the lives of slavery and abusive labour. These operations are far more than logistical challenges – they are deeply emotional, high-stakes missions that require not only determination but also a profound understanding of local communities and social dynamics. We work closely with those on the ground – teachers, village elders, and trusted local residents who are often the first to recognise when a child is in danger. Their courage in raising the alarm enables us to intervene, and it is their trust that empowers us to act. Every rescue mission begins with their voice.
Each mission often requires hours of travel off the grid – far from paved roads, cell service, or communication networks – to reach isolated areas where exploitation hides in silence. Our teams face not only difficult terrain but also intense emotional and social situations. The conversations are hard, the atmosphere is tense, and every step must be handled with care and cultural sensitivity.
One of the most delicate moments is helping children understand that we are not there to take them away into yet another form of captivity – but to free them. We are there to offer them a new beginning filled with care, education, and dignity. It takes time and compassion to build that trust, but when it happens, it changes everything – for them and us.
That’s why, every year, I invite business leaders, artists, and supporters to visit Ghana. These trips are combined with a cultural week dedicated to showcasing the richness of African art and the deeper purpose behind our mission. Because education is not just for children, it’s equally important that adults – especially those in positions of influence – see and understand the realities that still exist in many parts of the world. In the West, we often live in a comfortable bubble – one that is increasingly fragile. We need to confront these truths and reflect on our role in building a better world.
At Kids Haven School, we know that healing goes far beyond education. Many of the children in our care have experienced deep trauma and require specialised psychological support. That’s why we established a doctor’s room and on-site psychological counselling space, where qualified professionals provide individualised support and therapy. Looking ahead, we are expanding our mission with the creation of the Sport & Art Complex – a unique facility that will seamlessly integrate art therapy and structured sports programs into the school’s daily life. We firmly believe in the transformative power of movement, self-expression, and creativity and their ability to support every child’s emotional, physical, and social development.
We are honored to have the support of our exceptional ambassadors – Ewa Chodakowska, Poland’s most recognized fitness trainer and advocate of healthy living, and Pops Mensah-Bonsu, a former NBA player of Ghanaian origin. Alongside our specialists, they will help engage children in physical activity, build confidence, and restore joy. As part of the Sport & Art Complex, we also plan to create an artist-in-residence program. This initiative will not only serve as a source of inspiration for visiting artists from around the world but also as a unique opportunity for local children to engage with creativity and expression firsthand. Through workshops, shared projects, and everyday interaction, the residency will become a space of mutual exchange – where art becomes a bridge between worlds, generations, and life stories.
The Sport & Art Complex will be a place of balance and recovery – a space where children can rebuild not only their knowledge but also their sense of self, hope, and emotional well-being.
At Kids Haven, we don’t just build schools – we build futures.
Picture on the left- Coat: GUCCI; Turban: MAISON VIRGINIE; Sunglasses: LINDA FARROW; Necklace and earrings in white gold with diomonds and precious stones: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY. Picture on the right- Coat, body and trousers: GUCCI; Shoes: CAZABAT; Turban: MAISON VIRGINIE; Sunglasses: LINDA FARROW; Ring in rose gold with diomonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY
L’O: Where do the individuals involved in the school’s program come from?
OM: The school’s program’s individuals come from Ghana and Europe. Most teachers are recruited locally in Ghana and participate in a comprehensive two-three-year training program. We also bring in experienced educators from Europe to support and enhance this process. A few permanent members of our foundation are based on-site, overseeing daily operations and supervising the construction of a new educational complex.
We also collaborate with a partner school led by Gertrude Oteng Twenefor – a passionate and empathetic educator who cares for around 70 children from the local community.
DURING the third edition OF OUR CHARITY AUCTION – TOP CHARITY 2024 WE SECURED THE FULL funding for CONSTRUCTING THE KIDS HAVEN SPORT & ART COMPLEX.
As part of our broader mission within the Philanthropic Consortium, we support carefully vetted institutions around the world, including an orphanage in Uganda, a school complex for approximately 400 socially excluded children (including children with disabilities) in Kenya, educational programs in Armenia, and rehabilitation initiatives for victims of violence and street children at Don Bosco Primary School in Sierra Leone. We have also extended support to flood victims in Poland who lost their homes and livelihoods due to natural disasters.
L’O: How have the charity auctions facilitated the school construction process?
OM: When I began my charity work ten years ago, it took me four years to raise enough funds to start building the school. In contrast, during the third edition of our charity auction – TOP CHARITY 2024 – we secured the full funding for The complex, located next to our school, will be an extraordinary space where street children can access sports education, medical care, psychological support, art therapy, and the chance to interact with European artists.
This project reflects our philosophy: to support African art through collection and curation and weave it into the very fabric of the children’s everyday lives, making it a vibrant, living presence in their world.
Dress: GUCCI; Shoes: MANOLO BLAHNIK; Necklace and earrings in rose gold with diamonds and precious stones: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Artwork: Pieter Obels, The Story I Heard, 2024, OPERA GALLERY, PARIS
L’O: What role does contemporary art play in your philanthropic approach?
OM: My husband and I are both entrepreneurs and passionate art collectors. He is a leading voice in the European technology and logistics sectors, while I, in addition to running my own business ventures, have dedicated much of my energy to charitable work through my personal foundations. I also remain active as a television personality on Poland’s largest private TV net- work. Over time, we’ve created a unique fusion of business and philanthropy, technology and media – a dynamic that has led some to describe us as Poland’s “power couple.” It felt natural to combine these worlds to support meaningful causes, and that’s how our flagship initiative, TOP CHARITY, was born. The Challenge was to create a platform that would unite people from all over the world – in one place, for one evening – right here in Poland.
The first edition, held in 2022, took place shortly after the outbreak of war in Ukraine. Part of the funds raised was directed toward helping Ukrainian refugee mothers and their children through the RiO EDU CENTRUM. In 2023, we introduced a nearly twomonth pre-auction exhibition, allowing the public to engage with the artworks before the gala. This format, unique in Europe, has become a vital cultural and educational platform.
In 2024, the exhibition attracted over 70.000 visitors, and the auction that followed raised nearly twelve million euros, making TOP CHARITY the most prestigious and successful philanthropic event in the luxury space. For 2025, we anticipate around 100,000 visitors, thanks to an exceptional selection of works by renowned artists such as Jeff Koons, Tadeusz Kantor, Pablo Atchugarry, Rita Mawuena Benissan, and many others. All participating artists benefit from prominent exposure through our preauction showcase. A cornerstone of this initiative is our Artistic Council, composed of some of the most respected figures in the Polish and European art scenes. They carefully curate the auction selection throughout the year, ensuring both artistic excellence and diversity of voices.
In 2025, we are introducing new features, including a silent auction and a curated section dedicated to philanthropic and socially engaged artists. Our curators are committed to amplifying emerging talent and ensuring that even the most promising new voices in contemporary art are seen, appreciated, and supported.
From the very beginning, this auction was designed with business stakeholders in mind. Our goal is to unite them around shared passions – art and philanthropy – and inspire them to give back a part of their success. To raise significant funds for charity, I know I must offer the very best – and that’s why we put so much care and effort into making TOP CHARITY the most impactful philanthropic event in Europe.
Through our TOP CHARITY initiative, we are also proud to collaborate with esteemed institutions and iconic brands that share our vision of purposeful giving and cultural impact. Among our partners are Sotheby’s Auction House, the Sotheby’s Institute of Art, Opera Gallery, and Gallery 1957, as well as leading luxury houses such as Dolce&Gabbana, and Mercedes-Benz – which, for this year’s gala, presented the opportunity to purchase one of only 20 G-Class models in the world, co-designed by the French fashion house Moncler and Japanese designer NIGO. We also collaborate with Dassault Aviation and Sun- reef Yachts, the world’s first producers of fully electric luxury catamarans, blending cutting-edge technology with sustainable design and artistic expression. These partnerships reflect our commitment to uniting excellence in art, innovation, and philanthropy and to making a real, lasting difference in the world. We are currently seeking a reputable French foundation to partner with us in this international mission – one that combines generosity, creativity, and the will to make a lasting difference.
Jacket and trousers: L’AGENCE; Body: GUCCI; Sneakers: DIOR; Turban: MAISON VIRGINIE; Necklace, ring and earrings in rose gold with diamonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Pictured at OPERA GALLERY, PARIS
L’O: Does this auction benefit other charitable projects?
OM: Yes. With each edition of the auction, our guests are invited to submit proposals from trusted foundations they support to our Philanthropic Consortium, which we established two years ago to broaden the impact of our work and support additional causes.
The Philanthropic Consortium is the only initiative in Europe – a platform that helps other foundations achieve their statutory goals by offering funding, visibility, and collaboration without competition. We aim to show that in philanthropy, we can achieve far more by working together than by working alone. It’s a model built on solidarity, trust, and shared responsibility. The Consortium Council, composed of philanthropically engaged entrepreneurs, oversees project selection. Sylwia Dobrzycka, a dedicated leader in social impact, chairs the council. Thanks to this structure, we are able to support meaningful initiatives in Poland, particularly in areas such as mental health, support for children and youth in care homes, and programs for exceptionally talented young people.
We also collaborate with international organisations such as the Obama Foundation, which connects emerging global leaders to drive social change; the Rafa Nadal Foundation, which uses sport and education to empower vulnerable youth; the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, which recently opened a new youth centre in Florence; the ShoulderUp Foundation; and Re:wild, which is dedicated to protecting endangered species and ecosystems. This year, we are also honoured to welcome First Lady Jill Biden as a special guest at the business networking conference preceding the TOP CHARITY Auction. A significant portion of the funds – up to 30% of the total raised, depending on the project scope and our involvement – is allocated to these organizations and causes.
Additionally, through this funding, we pro- vide scholarships for talented students from art schools in both Poland and Africa, support artist residency programs, and help Polish youth access top-tier education worldwide through the Rafał Brzoska Foundation. These initiatives ensure that our philanthropic efforts empower future generations – both creatively and academically.
Picture on the left- Suit: ELIE SAAB; Shoes: MANOLO BLAHNIK; Necklace, earrings and ring in white gold with diamonds and precious stones: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Pictured at OPERA GALLERY, PARIS. Picture on the right- Suit and body: DIOR; Necklace in white gold with diamonds: MESSIKA HIGH JEWELLERY; Artwork: Tony Cragg, Current Version, 2009, OPERA GALLERY PARIS Pictured at OPERA GALLERY, PARIS in March 2025. (Opera Gallery Paris, 62 Rue du Faubourg Saint- Honoré, 75008 Paris, France)
L’O: How does Warsaw, where you and your husband reside, contribute to this virtuous dynamic?
OM: Our initiative unfolds over six months of diverse events that celebrate the intersection of business, culture, and art. It culminates in a grand gala this June when our guests arrive in Warsaw for two or three days. We are always delighted to welcome them and showcase the beauty of our capital, especially its architecture – a field I am deeply passionate about. We take our guests to iconic places such as the Royal Łazienki Park and the Museum of King Jan III’s Palace in Wilanów. I am actively involved in restoring historic buildings in Poland and across Europe – including the North Gallery at the Wilanów Palace Museum. I firmly believe that preserving our cultural heritage is essential for future generations.
We take great pride in introducing our guests to this dynamic and influential part of Europe – a region rich in business potential, cultural depth, and open dialogue with Western Europe, the United States, and Asia. This initiative reflects the diversity and creativity of those around us and highlights the exceptional opportunities within our European community. In these challenging times, it is also a reminder of the importance of unity – of standing together to demonstrate our continent’s strength, resilience, and wisdom.
L’O: Have you targeted French personalities or brands you would like to cooperate with?
OM: I would love to invite individuals from France who are passionate about art – both African and European – historic architecture, meaningful philanthropy, and embodying the spirit of this new generation of purpose-driven entrepreneurs. We are currently seeking a reputable French foundation with which to collaborate. Each year, we engage in conversations with a range of foundations to better understand their missions and assess their interest in joining our initiative. Many express genuine enthusiasm and are often impressed by our capacity to support causes that truly matter financially.
That said, I fully understand how challenging it is to manage a foundation and secure funding. That’s why we remain committed to building a strong, values-driven network of influential individuals from the business world – people who recognize the urgent need for thoughtful, effective philanthropy. As Martin Luther King Jr. so powerfully said, “The time is always right to do what is right.” And we believe that the time is now.
Credits:
Photographer: DENIS NEMYACHENKO
Stylist: FAROUK CHEKOUFI
Interview: FLORENCE JULIENNE
Coordination: BJS PRODUCTIONS
Make-up & Hair: KASIA SUJKA,
using GIVENCHY BEAUTY & CARITA
Production: ROBERTA MOLIN CORVO
Stylist Assistants: CANNELLE GODRAN & VALERIIA NOKHAEVA
Digital Artwork: QUENTIN FROMONT
Location: OPERA GALLERY, PARIS