At the 25th edition of the Christmas Tree Festival, a manifesto-event dedicated to equal access to education, Catena continued to stand at the heart of this charitable initiative. Its contribution helped achieve a historic result: over €1 million raised to support more than 15,000 children at risk of poverty and social exclusion.
On a night when generosity became the shared goal of everyone present, the 24 creations auctioned once again demonstrated the power of solidarity and community.
From iconic designers to emerging young artists, participants in the 2025 edition transformed the Christmas tree into a visual expression of involvement and social responsibility. Each creation tells a story and, through the generosity of those who placed bids, becomes a real instrument of social change. Over the years, the Festival organized by Save the Children Romania has successfully built a bridge between art and generosity.
The most highly auctioned work, “A Cosmic Tree of Life”, created by Vlad Nancă, was acquired through the joint efforts of Catena and other involved partners.
Once again this year, the Fildas–Catena Group reaffirmed its strong commitment to social causes that support the education and development of vulnerable children. Through active participation in the auction, Fildas–Catena acquired a series of Christmas trees with outstanding artistic and emotional significance:
The Angel
Created by Doina Levintza
A symbolic representation of the angel as a divine messenger and protector, “The Angel” conveys hope, light, and comfort. The piece evokes the idea of care and love, like a guardian angel watching over people.
Voltaquin
Created by Mihai Popescu & Twins Studio
“Voltaquin” is an architectural, sculptural tree made of polished brass, glass elements, and 3D-printed components, transforming light into a fascinating visual spectacle.
A Cosmic Tree of Life
Created by Vlad Nancă
A mosaic-like work inspired by space exploration and the imagery of a feminist future, “A Cosmic Tree of Life” is a modular ensemble configurable into two autonomous forms: one symbolizing balance and accumulation over time, the other dialogue, duality, and cosmic expansion. Both versions are united by the same symbolic structure.
Time
Created by Damiana Păun (Vorbește Lumea, PRO TV)
“Time” portrays two worlds: “then” — the bright memory of rural childhood, and “now” — the bustling, modern city full of contrasts. The tree speaks about unseen yet deeply felt roots, about moments that pass, and about becoming. Looking at it, one finds themselves caught between who they were and who they have become.
Brave Hearts, Branches of Light
Created by Simona & Gabriel Gherasim – Gallantique Boutique
A creation inspired by the stories of children supported by Save the Children. The white branches symbolize their fragile steps, while red represents courage and the heart that never gives up. Natural elements remind us that strength and beauty grow from patience and care. Every detail tells the story of a child who can flourish when someone sees them, supports them, and believes in them. Created with the loving involvement of grandparents Elena and Gherasim Lazăr.
Silk Embrace
Created by Laura Hincu & El Jardin
A natural tree with roots, wrapped in a silk ribbon, “Silk Embrace” speaks of gentleness, protection, and giving. The creation is an invitation to care — for children, for the future, for nature. After the auction, the tree will be planted in a location chosen by the winner, as a symbol of good that, once planted, continues to grow and remain a constant green presence.
Protective Light
Created by Diana Nicolaie & Ela Crăciun
Created as a tribute to children whose voices are not heard enough, “Protective Light” features a central vertical axis made of blue glass — a symbol of their fragility, beautiful and transparent, yet resilient. Inside pulses a warm light, like the hope that grows in every child when they are seen and protected.
The artwork affirms the promise that every child’s light deserves to be kept alive.
The Sweet Tree
Created by Dhaniel Nora & Purple Flowers
“The Sweet Tree” brings together the joy of childhood and the magic of the holidays. Decorated in shades of red and white, with elements inspired by the world of desserts, the tree evokes joy and indulgence — a creation that brings warmth and the generous spirit of Christmas.
The Professions Tree
Created by Adela Pârvu, with the support of Tubądzin Romania
“The Professions Tree” speaks about every child’s chance to learn a profession and build their own path. An invitation to understand that when we support education, we build people and open the future.
The artwork is a modular decorative object, designed to have a long life beyond the festival.
The Story of the Infinite Tree
Created by Nicu Bocancea & Iris Flower Shop
“The Story of the Infinite Tree” speaks about the bond that is born when people choose to stand by children. The trunk shaped like the infinity symbol represents the continuity of gestures of care, support, and solidarity — a path that always moves forward.
The Portal of Childhood
Created by Save the Children, with the support of Ștefania Mircea
“The Portal of Childhood” visually revives the world of stories and the magic of Christmas Eve — the scent of oranges, gingerbread, and the charm of childhood wishes. Beyond nostalgia, the tree conveys the message that the miracle of Christmas remains alive as long as we continue to dream and rediscover the inner light we carry from childhood.
Through these actions, the Fildas–Catena Group reaffirms its role as a long-standing partner of the Christmas Tree Festival — a partnership built on values, respect, and responsibility toward the future of children in Romania.
A firm commitment to children’s future
Catena’s involvement in supporting this charitable event for over 20 years represents a commitment that goes beyond donations, becoming a story that adds new chapters each year to a broader narrative about the importance of children’s education.
Over its 25 editions, the Christmas Tree Festival has become a true pillar of solidarity. To date, more than €10 million have been raised to support 272,127 children through programs such as School After School, Second Chance, summer kindergartens, psychological counseling, and socio-economic support for families.
Each edition stands as proof that good is passed on, and that every contribution opens a new path toward education and hope.
The Christmas Tree Festival also highlights a reality that cannot be ignored: in Romania, over 33.8% of children live at risk of poverty or social exclusion, and for vulnerable families, children’s access to education often becomes impossible without external support. According to Save the Children data, nearly 58% of families in the organization’s programs cannot cover basic school-related expenses, with the percentage rising dramatically in cases of severe poverty.
