23 October marks a special anniversary for Polish Sue. We look back with pride on the recognition awarded to our Association by the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN), which honoured our work with the prestigious title of “Ambassador of Polish History” – a distinction celebrating our commitment to preserving and promoting Polish historical heritage in the United Kingdom.

Although time has passed since this memorable occasion, the emotions associated with receiving this award remain vivid. It was a moment of great pride, gratitude and reflection – and a powerful reminder of why our work matters.

A special moment at the British Parliament

On 7 October 2024, at the Palace of Westminster in London, during the opening of the Institute of National Remembrance’s international exhibition, “Trails of Hope. The Odyssey of Freedom”, I had the honour of receiving the “Ambassador of Polish History” award on behalf of Polish Sue.

The award was presented by Dr Karol Nawrocki, then President of the Institute of National Remembrance and today President of the Republic of Poland.

Receiving this distinction within the historic surroundings of the British Parliament made the occasion particularly meaningful. For an organisation dedicated to building bridges between Poland and the United Kingdom through history, education and remembrance, it was a moment that will always hold a special place in our story.

The award recognised Polish Sue’s contribution to commemorating Polish history and promoting Poland’s historical heritage beyond its borders. It was not only an honour, but also a responsibility to continue sharing the stories of those whose courage and sacrifice helped shape our shared European history.

History that connects generations and nations

Founded in London in 2016, Polish Sue was established in memory of Lady Sue Ryder of Warsaw and inspired by the values she represented: compassion, solidarity, service to others and respect for human dignity.

From the beginning, our mission has been to preserve the memory of Poland’s heroes and historical experiences while bringing these stories to wider audiences, particularly younger generations of British people of Polish heritage.

We believe that Polish history deserves to be known internationally. The stories of Polish soldiers, airmen, sailors, resistance fighters and ordinary people who demonstrated extraordinary courage in the darkest moments of European history should not be confined to the Polish community alone.

Through commemorative events, educational initiatives, historical projects and cooperation with institutions and Polish community organisations, we seek to ensure that these stories remain alive.

For us, remembrance is not simply about looking back. It is about helping future generations understand their heritage, appreciate the sacrifices made for freedom and recognise the enduring importance of historical truth.

“Ambassador of Polish History” – an honour and a responsibility

The IPN award holds a special significance for our Association. It affirms that meaningful work in support of Polish historical remembrance can be carried out beyond Poland’s borders, bringing forgotten stories back into public awareness and restoring recognition to those who deserve to be remembered.

I accepted this distinction on behalf of the entire Polish Sue Association – everyone who generously contributes their time, energy and commitment to ensuring that Polish history reaches British audiences and younger generations of the Polish diaspora.

I remain deeply grateful to the Institute of National Remembrance for this recognition, and particularly to Dr Karol Nawrocki, who presented the award in his capacity as President of the IPN.

My sincere thanks also go to everyone who has supported Polish Sue throughout its journey and helped us develop our work in the field of historical remembrance and education.

Our mission remains unchanged: to preserve Poland’s historical legacy, honour its heroes and build understanding between nations through a truthful account of the past.

Looking to the future with pride

As we commemorate this anniversary, we also reflect on the journey Polish Sue has taken since its foundation. Every commemorative event, every historical figure brought back into public memory and every opportunity to engage younger generations strengthens our conviction that this work is both necessary and worthwhile.

For Polish Sue, the title “Ambassador of Polish History” is not simply a source of pride. It is a commitment to continue serving the cause of Polish historical remembrance.

We will continue working to ensure that Poland’s history is shared with accuracy, dignity and passion – in the United Kingdom and wherever people are willing to discover it.

We thank the Institute of National Remembrance for this exceptional distinction and all those who continue to support our work.

We are proud to preserve Polish history. We remember our heroes with respect. And we remain committed to passing their legacy on to future generations.

Iwona Golińska, MBA
Founder and President, Polish Sue Association
Ambassador of Polish History – Institute of National Remembrance, 2024. Secretary of The Council for the Polish Diaspora Abroad by the President of Poland.

🇵🇱🇬🇧 Remembrance connects generations. History builds bridges.

POLISH SUE ASSOCIATION

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