Shared Stories

Join us for an insightful interview with Ignacy, who arrived in Northern Ireland as a child and has since forged a diverse and impressive career. With degrees in Biomedical Science and Law, Ignacy’s journey took him to the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Belfast, where he engaged in significant cross-cultural initiatives, including Polish Saturday Schools and promoting the historical contributions of Poles in Northern Ireland. Now employed at Baker McKenzie Belfast Centre, Ignacy is eager to share his experiences of adapting to a new environment, overcoming challenges, and making the most out of every opportunity. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from someone who has successfully navigated both educational and professional landscapes while maintaining strong cultural ties.

Join us as we dive into the unique journey of John Cieślik, who arrived in Northern Ireland in 2010. Unlike many Polish immigrants, John grew up in South Wales in a Polish-Welsh family. His father served in the Second World War with the Polish General Anders Army in Italy and settled in Wales after the war. Today, John plays an important role as a trustee at Polska Szkoła ”Polca” w Belfaście / Polca School. His involvement not only helps ensure that his son learns to speak Polish, but it also motivated John to reconnect with his family in Poland after years apart. This heartfelt reunion allowed him to rediscover his Polish roots. John's story is truly fascinating, especially as he navigates his identity, blending his Welsh heritage with Polish culture, all while embracing the Northern Irish experience.

Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Iwona Rejczak, who initially arrived in Northern Ireland with a plan to support her family in Poland. Over two decades later, Iwona has established herself as a passionate advocate and leader within the Polish community. Discover how she co-founded the Polish Community Association Belfast and her tireless efforts in promoting and supporting her community. See why she now calls Northern Ireland her forever home and be inspired by her story of dedication and heritage.

In this inspiring video, we sit down with Anita Hope, who moved from Poland to Northern Ireland in 2005 with her then-fiancé, now husband, in search of better life. Anita shares her incredible journey from working as a shop assistant in a small market in Poland to realising her long-held dream of becoming a professional photographer. She delves into the challenges and triumphs of starting a photography business in Northern Ireland, highlighting how her new environment provided the perfect backdrop for her creative aspirations to flourish. Join us as Anita recounts her story of perseverance, passion, and the beautiful blend of cultural experiences that have shaped her family's life in Northern Ireland.

Ever wondered how the wave of Polish migration to Northern Ireland started? Dive into the fascinating backstory of how local recruitment agencies, like Grafton Recruitment, played a pivotal role in filling the labour market gaps. In 2004, many local factories struggled to find full-time staff. Recruitment agencies expanded their search to include new EU states, focusing on Poland. Discover how Grafton Recruitment, with its Polish branch, brought thousands of skilled Polish workers to the UK, Ireland, and Northern Ireland. Join us as Ken Belshaw, co-founder of Grafton Recruitment, shares his personal experiences and insights into this historical migration process. Don't miss this intriguing story!

What began as a quick way to raise funds for higher education became the start of Artur's professional football coaching career, facing top names in European football. Shortly after arriving in Northern Ireland, Artur Kopyt followed his passion for football, playing at all levels from casual games in Ormeau Park to competing in the NIFL Premiership. His professional career took off as he became a football coach, gaining experience with Sparta Belfast and running a Polish youth program for Glentoran FC. After 15 fruitful years in Northern Ireland, Artur moved on to an assistant coach role at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, one of Belgium's most successful teams. He is now building his legacy on both national and international levels, including this year's Europa League competition.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring academic journey of Professor Piotr Blumczynski, who brought his exceptional skills and knowledge to Northern Ireland in 2010. Currently a professor at the Centre for Translation and Interpreting, Queen’s University Belfast, Piotr has significantly contributed to the fields of Translation and Intercultural Studies both locally and internationally. In this video, Piotr shares his experiences of moving to Northern Ireland, his extensive involvement in research projects and his impactful roles at Queen's University Belfast.

Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Ewa Grosman, CEO of the Centre for Democracy and Peace Building and founder of the Fellowship Programme in Northern Ireland. From advising in the House of Lords to launching Polish Cultural Week and combating hate crime, Ewa’s achievements are extraordinary. Dive into her story of leadership, cultural diplomacy, and her passion for promoting Polish culture. Discover her two-decade experience shaping Northern Ireland’s cultural landscape. Don’t miss this inspiring tale of dedication and impact!

Join us as we sit down with Jeremiasz Ojrzyński at the Belfast Exposed Gallery during the 2024 MFA exhibition to discuss his multifaceted journey in Northern Ireland. Jeremiasz first arrived in Northern Ireland as a volunteer for an international charity and later returned to pursue his MFA in Photography at the University of Ulster. In this candid interview, Jeremiasz shares his experiences and insights from an international student’s perspective. He delves into the nuances of local culture and how his time in Belfast has profoundly shaped his understanding of space and people. Don’t miss this insightful conversation to learn more about his unique journey and the artistic contributions showcased in the MFA exhibition.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Joanna Pusz , a talented dance instructor who turned her dreams into reality. Discover how Joanna, came to Northern Ireland in 2014 and embraced the vibrant student life before fulfilling her passion for dance. Learn about the importance of the first dance in Polish wedding traditions and how Joanna helps couples transform their grand entrance into a magical moment. Whether you’re preparing for your wedding or just love the art of dance, you’ll find joy and inspiration in Joanna’s story!

Welcome to the heart of East Belfast! Discover Wolf Pack Boxing Club, nestled on Newtownards Road, where dreams take shape and determination knows no bounds. Run by the passionate Coach Michał Wiśniewski, Wolf Pack Boxing Club isn’t just a gym; it’s a haven for young souls striving for something greater. Michal’s vision is simple yet powerful: to foster a space brimming with energetic youth focused on sport, discipline, and character-building. Join us as we dive into the daily grind of Michał's life, where hard work and perseverance are the cornerstones of success. Witness firsthand the efforts to offer youth an alternative to screen time, steering them toward personal growth and physical fitness. Whether you’re a boxing enthusiast or simply in search of inspiration, Wolf Pack Boxing Club promises a story of transformation and grit. Step inside, get inspired, and maybe even throw a punch or two!

In this heartfelt video, we sit down with Monika Dike , the passionate owner of the beloved Smokey Deli in East Belfast. Join us as Monika shares her inspiring journey of opening the business, the challenges she faced in keeping it alive, and her plans for the future as she prepares to close this cherished community space. After years of resiliently fighting to keep the business afloat, Monika has made the difficult decision to wrap it up. With just a few more days left before closing the doors, we are thrilled to give Monika the platform to reminisce about the positive and not-so-positive memories that have defined Smokey Deli. Whether you're a long-time supporter of this unique deli or discovering it for the first time, Monika’s story is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the impact of community.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Magdalena Załęcka, a bibliophile who transformed her love for books into a fulfilling career. After moving to Northern Ireland in 2018, Magdalena found her place in the charming village of Moira, where she embraced the role of a librarian. Her surroundings and experiences in this quaint setting sparked the creation of her debut novel, published in 2024. In this exclusive interview, Magdalena shares her passion for literature, her captivating journey from librarian to author, and how the vibrant culture of Northern Ireland influenced her writing. She also reveals how a recent hurricane became the unexpected muse for her upcoming book. Don’t miss this heartwarming story of dreams and creativity, where Magdalena opens up about living in a new country and finding inspiration in every corner.

Dive into the electrifying journey of Mateusz Wiśniewski, a passion-driven volleyball powerhouse. After swapping his Polish roots for Northern Ireland's shores in 2009, life seemed typical. However, the familiar rhythm of a volleyball set his heart racing again. From dominating local courts as the Most Valuable Player to steering his team toward a string of NI league victories, Mateusz's story doesn't stop there. He took a daring leap from player to mentor, piloting the Fireblades Women's team to national fame. Now, as the head coach of Northern Ireland's Women Volleyball Team, Mateusz isn't just dreaming — he's on a mission to elevate Northern Ireland to the forefront of European volleyball. Go behind the scenes of Mateusz's thrilling saga and witness how he's rewriting Northern Ireland's volleyball legacy one set at a time!

Dive into the remarkable journey of Artur, who transformed his life from a kitchen porter into one of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated chefs. Despite having no prior kitchen experience, Artur’s drive and passion led him to claim the title of Independent Chef of the Year in 2023 and win 'Come Dine with Me: The Professionals' Northern Ireland edition. In this captivating interview, Artur shares candid insights about his humble beginnings, the transformative power of Northern Ireland’s culinary scene, and his thrilling vision to revolutionise local gastronomy with vibrant and diverse flavours.

Join us as we delve into Monika Zimińska - Kiżuk's remarkable journey—from starting as a production operator in a food factory to becoming a recognised bioengineering professional in Northern Ireland. Originally planning just a short stint, Monika found her place in a new homeland, earning a PhD from Queen's University Belfast and managing multi-million-pound projects. Discover the perseverance and dedication it took for Monika to transition through diverse roles, including warehouse operative, cashier, waitress, and admin, while also supporting the Polish community between 2006-2012 with translation and admin services. Learn how these experiences shaped her professional and personal life. Living in the charming seaside town of Bangor, Monika continues to thrive alongside her Polish husband and two children. Her story is not just one of career success, but also of community spirit and resilience.

Join Michał Szymborski as he shares his incredible journey from accepting an invitation to Northern Ireland to pursuing his childhood dream of becoming a firefighter. In this inspiring video, Michał discusses how a simple leaflet from Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service changed his life forever. He highlights the wealth of opportunities in Northern Ireland, showcasing his commitment to serving diverse communities while also embracing the beautiful local nature. As a pioneer in his role as a migrant firefighter, Michał reflects on the warm welcome he received from his colleagues and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Tune in for a heartfelt story of adventure, ambition, and community!

Join us on a heartfelt journey as we follow Kasia Nowak inspiring story of resilience and ambition. Leaving her home in Poland to join her father in Northern Ireland, Kasia sought something more from life. What began as a leap of faith turned into a remarkable new chapter. Watch as she masters English, enrolls at Queen’s University in Belfast, and pursues her passion for medicine. Now a dedicated rheumatologist in her final year of specialisation, Kasia reflects on the support and opportunities she found in Northern Ireland. But her heart remains in Poland, where she dreams of returning and reuniting with her roots.

In this uplifting interview, Anka Borkowska Anna Bee shares how Northern Ireland became her safe new beginning after leaving an abusive relationship in Poland. With remarkable courage, she took a one-way step into the unknown and rebuilt her life with purpose and heart. Anka opens up about learning a new language, advancing her career, and finding a true sense of belonging in Kilrea. From quietly planting flowers to brighten the town, to supporting local initiatives such Kilrea Community & Fairy Thorn Association and receiving special recognition for her efforts, she embodies community spirit. She was also recognised as a Polish Culture Ambassador with Building Communities Resource Centre, building bridges between cultures and people. Her optimism is contagious, her resilience inspiring, and her story a reminder that new starts are possible. We hope you feel as energised by Anka’s positivity as we did.

Professor Jan Jędrzejewski arrived in Northern Ireland in 1993 to take up a post as Professor of English and Comparative Literature at Ulster University , Coleraine campus. In this intimate interview, he reflects on humble beginnings, decades of teaching, and the small, almost invisible Polish community that existed in NI before Poland’s EU accession. Hear how Jan educated thousands of students while sharing a deep passion for English literature, and how his experience represents an earlier chapter of Polish migration to Northern Ireland—long before the larger wave of newcomers. Join us for athoughtful conversation about identity, education, and building a life between cultures.

Discover the untold story of Paul Strzelecki, the Polish explorer known for mapping the Australian continent and naming its highest peak after Tadeusz Kosciuszko. This video delves into his crucial role in providing aid during the Great Irish Famine as the main agent of the British Relief Association. Join us as we revisit the impactful 2019 exhibition at the Polish Embassy in Dublin, "A Forgotten Polish Hero of the Great Irish Famine," curated by Peter Gray, Professor of Modern Irish History at Queen's University Belfast. In our exclusive interview with Peter, we explore Strzelecki's innovative approach to relief efforts, his lasting legacy in Ireland, and why he deserves recognition for his contributions. Tune in to learn how one man's heroism helped save thousands during one of Ireland's greatest tragedies.

Join us for an insightful interview with Arkady Rzegocki, the Polish Ambassador to Ireland. Serving from September 2023 to July 2024, Ambassador Rzegocki has played a crucial role in enhancing cultural and economic ties between Poland and Ireland. Drawing on his extensive diplomatic experience, including his tenure as the Polish Ambassador to the UK, he shares his expertise on cultural diplomacy and the significance of Polish-Irish relations. Don't miss this exclusive conversation filmed on the eve of his departure from Ireland.

Poland is the only EU country with a full-time diplomatic presence in Northern Ireland. For two years, Mariusz Stus led the Polish Consulate in Belfast, fostering strong ties with the Polish diaspora and promoting Polish culture. Known for his approachability, Mariusz shares the highlights of his tenure as Consul General of Poland in Belfast in this exclusive interview.

Explore the inspiring story of Tomasz Styrczula , aka Olo, who turned a short stay in Northern Ireland into a successful career. Following friends from Poland, he graduated from a local university, learned basic Gaelic, and became a broadcast engineer for an international company in Bangor. Olo's passion for music, especially DJing, led him to launch Prime Escape — a project that combines his love for electronic music and event management. Don’t miss his first gig this August at Lavers Bar in Belfast! Join us for an inspiring conversation about pursuing your dreams.

In 2001, Ola Sobieraj made a brave leap, arriving in Northern Ireland ahead of the notable influx of Polish migrants in 2004. Quickly building connections, she's called this place her forever home ever since. For years, Ola has passionately championed the rights and welfare of Polish and other migrant communities in Mid-Ulster, earning admiration as a dedicated advocate for migrants' rights across Northern Ireland. Join us as Ola collaborates with her fellow advocates at 3 Milion, using her expertise to empower EU migrants living in the UK today. In an exclusive interview, Ola shares her personal story of settlement, resilience, and the challenges facing EU migrants in today's world.

Join Wojciech Palka on an inspiring journey from a planned two-week trip to Northern Ireland to transforming his life into a full-time career as a marketing and content creator. With just a small budget but immense passion and determination, Wojtek leveraged his camera skills and creative thinking to help businesses boost their visibility. Discover how Northern Ireland became more than a destination – it turned into a home where Wojtek found purpose, love, and the joy of being a first-time dad.

Dive into the world of motorbikes with Krzysztof Bubacz, a passionate enthusiast who has transformed his love for two wheels into a thriving business. As Northern Ireland buzzes with the North West 200 road racing excitement, we sit down with Krzysiek at his newly launched K.Bike Custom Motorcycle workshop in Ballymoney. Listen to his captivating stories about the Polish motorbike scene, his commitment to restoration, and his favorite biking routes across Europe. Join us for an inspiring interview that showcases Krzysiek's genuine and unwavering love for motorbikes.

After his arrival, Tomasz Rzonca not only transformed his fishing style but also channeled his passion into creating Polish Anglers Northern Ireland - Community — a thriving community organisation that now boasts over 250 members from various backgrounds. From organising and judging international angling competitions to earning prestigious awards from Sports NI and Belfast City Council, Tomek's dedication to the sport shines through. Today, he continues to promote fishing while educating others on respecting the angling community in Northern Ireland.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Kevin O'Neill IPS - Belfast , a dedicated advocate for Polish culture in Ireland. For over a decade, Kevin has played a pivotal role in the Irish Polish Society , serving as honorary secretary and forging deep friendships within the Polish community in Dublin, Belfast and beyond. His love for Poland not only led him to learn the Polish language but also to actively promote the rich historical connections between Ireland and Poland. In this video, Kevin shares his valuable insights, personal stories, and experiences that highlight the vibrant Polish culture and its significance in Ireland. Don't miss this engaging conversation!

Join us in an inspiring journey as we delve into the story of Maciek Smuczyński, the esteemed founder of Magic Ink Custom Tattoo Studio - the first tattoo parlour in Northern Ireland run entirely by a Polish individual. Only two years after arriving in Northern Ireland, Maciek took a leap of faith, creating a vibrant hub for tattoo enthusiasts. In this exclusive interview, Maciek shares his unique experiences within the local tattoo scene and reflects on the rich history that surrounds him. Witness how Northern Ireland gave Maciek everything, empowering him to break barriers and establish a haven for artistic expression and cultural connectivity.

Meet Brian Piotr Szwiec, the ultimate petrolhead whose passion for cars transcends mere words! From breathing new life into rare classic cars in his auto body shop Brian’s Garage - BT Autobody Downpatrick to zipping across Europe in his beloved Polish Fiat 126p "Maluch," Brian's life is a car enthusiast's dream. Join us as Brian takes on Poland in his tiny but mighty Fiat, captivating hearts and making new friends wherever he goes. Before hitting the road, Brian shares his fascinating journey from Northern Ireland to the heart of Europe. Hear about his thrilling adventures, the inspirations behind his love for classic cars, and the quirky stories of roadside photos with fans! Don’t miss out on this epic ride filled undeniable charm of a classic Wee Fiat.

Discover the enchanting journey of Monika Krekora ! Nineteen years ago, she ventured to Ireland in search of love, happiness, and fulfillment. In this captivating episode, learn how this beautiful country became the backdrop for her dreams. For the past year, Monika has passionately contributed to the Made in Poland PACTproject, celebrating Polish folk culture through vibrant singing and dancing. Join us as we explore her inspiring story and the rich cultural tapestry of the Polish community in Northern Ireland. Monika is Made in Poland!

Discover Maciek Borc incredible transformation from a young boy building a DIY gym in a housing estate basement in Poland to a successful personal trainer in Northern Ireland! In this video, Maciek shares his lifelong passion for fitness, detailing his journey of self-education and competing in physique contests across Northern Ireland and GB, where he brought home several medals. Now, as a personal trainer and sports massage therapist at BODYfit - Personal Training & Massage, Maciek empowers others to become their best selves, sharing valuable insights and motivation along the way. Join us for this inspiring story filled with determination and passion!

Discover an inspiring journey from sunny Italy to the lush landscapes of Northern Ireland in our latest interview with Arnold Majcher . While many seek the sun-soaked beaches of southern Europe, Arnold chose a different path, establishing his life amidst the rolling hills and warm communities of Northern Ireland. As the eLearning Production Executive at Legal Island —a renowned, multi-award-winning workplace compliance company—Arnold embraces the opportunity to expand his skills in employment law and HR training. Legal Island serves professionals across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, offering a dynamic platform for Arnold's growth. In this interview, Arnold shares his experiences of living in Northern Ireland, a place where he found not just a new home but a vibrant community. Explore how the Polish community has enriched this part of the world, weaving culture and connections into the fabric of Northern Ireland.

Kasia Garbal has been a driving force behind several initiatives supporting the Polish community in Northern Ireland for years. In a recent interview, she opened up about her journey to Northern Ireland, revealing the personal experiences that inspired her passion for community work. She shared some fascinating insights into the development of the Polish community over the decades, touching on the challenges and triumphs we've all faced. Kasia is currently leading the "Nasz Dom" project, which kicked off in September 2025 as part of Dom Polski Belfast initiative. Explore this interview to discover more details about it!

Join us as we dive into the inspiring story of Kasia Kotowska, who moved to Northern Ireland from Poland at just 13 years old. Faced with the challenges of being a teenager in a new country, Kasia not only had to navigate the difficulties of making new friends but also overcame language barriers. Today, she has flourished, deeply embedding herself in the local community and building a fulfilling life, including a happy relationship with a local. Recently, Kasia embarked on an exciting entrepreneurial journey, becoming one of the owners of a beauty clinic Prime Beauty Omagh . In this heartfelt conversation, she shares the joys and challenges of being self-employed as a young woman.

In this insightful interview, heritage practitioner Gemma Reid of the Quarto Collective shares her experiences supporting the PL20NI project. Gemma details her involvement in extensive research, including focus groups and interviews, that delves into the history of the Polish community in Northern Ireland over the past two decades. She discusses key findings from her work, offering personal reflections on what surprised her and how her understanding of Polish migrants in the region has evolved.

Join us for an insightful interview with Robert Baran, the founder of The House Of Code as he shares his journey of establishing a software development company in Northern Ireland. Having moved to the area in 2016 to support his wife’s career, Robert found a welcoming environment not just to settle but also to grow his business. In this video, Robert discusses the challenges and rewards of chasing global contracts while supporting local businesses. He shares valuable tips for anyone looking to build a career in the tech industry, highlighting what it takes to succeed. Additionally, Robert talks about his passion for sailing and how the beautiful local shores offer him the perfect escape to enjoy this hobby.

In this engaging video, we sit down with some of the youngest members of the Polish community in Northern Ireland representing Polska Szkoła Uzupełniająca w Newry and Polska Szkoła Sobotnia Dungannon . We ask them a significant question: What does it mean to you to be Polish?There is around 8,000 young Poles living in Northern Ireland today, these kids are the next generation of the Polish community in here. Many of them were born here, yet their identities are shaped by their parents’ traditions, attendance at Polish Saturday Schools, and summertime adventures with grandparents in Poland.

Dive into the inspiring story of Agnieszka Pakulska Tomasik, the powerhouse behind Spoko-Loko , a vibrant Polish Hairdresser Salon in Ballymena that's become a cornerstone for the local community! Her salon isn't just a place for haircuts, but a cultural crossroads in Northern Ireland. In this fascinating interview, Agnieszka shares how life truly begins after 40. She embraced her newfound freedom and passion by hitting the road on her motorcycle, proving that age is just a number when it comes to discovering new adventures! Listen as Agnieszka opens up about her move to Northern Ireland and her determination to turn dreams into reality. Spoko Loko has grown into more than just a salon; it's a hub for connection, community, and creativity. Agnieszka’s leadership is a shining example of how following one's heart can lead to incredible success and fulfillment.

A portrait of Sławek "Lupek" Lubkiewicz, whose journey from Poland to Northern Ireland began in 2005 as a break from difficult times back home and grew into a new life. What started as a temporary move became two decades of various adventures. Along the way, Sławek helped establish one of the first Polish football teams in Northern Ireland, Piast Lurgan, and made a name for himself performing with his music bands on stages across Ireland. Today, he continues to give back by celebrating and promoting Polish traditions and culture through the Made in Poland PACT initiative.

In this video, we explore the inspiring journey of Magdalena Kiszko, a dedicated member of the Lifeboat crew in Portrush. As part of the RNLI Portrush established in 1860, they provide essential search and rescue support for those in distress at sea. Magdalena shares her motivation for becoming a volunteer crew member, the responsibilities involved in her role, and how her work resonates with the residents of Portrush, a coastal town she proudly calls her forever home. Join us as we dive into her remarkable story and commitment to the community.

In this video, we sit down with the incredible Agnieszka Zywot , owner of a renowned beauty clinic Prime Brows Academy Omagh. Agnieszka isn't just any beautician; she's recognised as one of the UK's top specialists in permanent brows and has even been honoured with several national titles. Now, she's stepping into a new role as a judge on a prestigious national panel. Agnieszka's journey is truly inspiring. She built her clinic from the ground up, overcoming health challenges and navigating through the tumultuous times of COVID-19.

In this video, we introduce you to Patryk Sadowski, a visionary photographer who has transformed the local photographic scene in Northern Ireland. With his breathtaking landscape, aerial and astrophotography, he has emerged as one of the country's leading artists.Patryk's stunning images have not only been selected to promote the City of Derry but have also showcased the beauty of Ireland on an international stage. His work has graced the pages of prestigious publications and earned him numerous high profile awards - Patryk Sadowski PhotographyJoin us as we sit down with Patryk to learn about his journey, his passion for capturing the perfect shot, and what it’s truly like to live and work in Northern Ireland. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates breathtaking views, you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation!

In this video of the Friends of Poland series, Edwin Poots MLA, the Speaker of the NI Assembly, shares a brief message with the Polish community. This message comes a day before the Polish Heritage Day celebration, which is kindly hosted by the Speaker and will take place at Stormont tomorrow.We are releasing a series of short interviews with Northern Irish Assembly Members supporting the Friends of Poland group, established at Stormont in May 2024. These videos will showcase the profound knowledge and relationships between Assembly Members and the Polish community in Northern Ireland, ahead of the Polish Heritage Day at the Assembly on May 31st.

In today's insightful video interview, Deputy Speaker John Blair MLA of the Northern Ireland Assembly discusses integrating the Polish community into Northern Ireland. A member of the Alliance Party of Northern Ireland shares his connections with Polish community groups and emphasises the community's role in enriching Northern Ireland. John expresses his hopes for increased visibility and involvement of Polish members in public life, believing it will foster diversity and strengthen decision-making within public institutions. His optimistic vision underscores the value of inclusivity and unity in Northern Ireland's future.This week, we're releasing a series of short interviews with Northern Irish Assembly Members supporting the Friends of Poland group, established at Stormont in May 2024. These videos will showcase the profound knowledge and relationships between Assembly Members and the Polish community in Northern Ireland, ahead of the Polish Heritage Day at the Assembly on May 31st.

In today's first interview, we talked to PeterMartin MLA, for North Down representing the Democratic Unionist Party, about his links to Poland and the significance of shared history for building meaningful and long-lasting relations between the local and Polish communities. This week, we're releasing a series of short interviews with Northern Irish Assembly Members supporting the Friends of Poland group, established at Stormont in May 2024. These videos will showcase the profound knowledge and relationships between Assembly Members and the Polish community in Northern Ireland, ahead of the Polish Heritage Day at the Assembly on May 31st.

Today we share a short interview with Patsy McGlone, MLA from the Social Democratic and Labour Party, discussing his views and the links between Poland and Ireland. Patsy's constituency is located in Mid Ulster, where in recent years he has managed to establish strong connections with many members of the Polish community living there.This week, we're releasing a series of short interviews with Northern Irish Assembly Members supporting the Friends of Poland group, established at Stormont in May 2024. These videos will showcase the profound knowledge and relationships between Assembly Members and the Polish community in Northern Ireland, ahead of the Polish Heritage Day at the Assembly on May 31st.

Ciara Ferguson MLA for Foyle representing Sinn Féin, talked about her earliest memories of Poland, linked to the first visit of John Paul II to Ireland, and her involvement in an agricultural exchange program. This program allowed her and other members of her local community to take part in a study visit to Poland, where they experienced the hospitality of the Polish people in rural areas.This week, we're releasing a series of short interviews with Northern Irish Assembly Members supporting the Friends of Poland group, established at Stormont in May 2024. These videos will showcase the profound knowledge and relationships between Assembly Members and the Polish community in Northern Ireland, ahead of the Polish Heritage Day at the Assembly on May 31st.

In our second interview today, Deborah Erskine MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone from Democratic Unionist Party, shared her experience of spending time in Poland on a student exchange program and what she remembered from it.This week, we're releasing a series of short interviews with Northern Irish Assembly Members supporting the Friends of Poland group, established at Stormont in May 2024. These videos will showcase the profound knowledge and relationships between Assembly Members and the Polish community in Northern Ireland, ahead of the Polish Heritage Day at the Assembly on May 31st.

Kicking off our series, hear from Minister of Health, Mike Nesbitt MLA - the leader of the Ulster Unionist Party - as he shares insights on his connection with the Polish community, his involvement in unveiling the Polish Second World War memorial in Newtownards, and the unforgettable story of how Polish Members of the European Parliment saved him from an overnight stay at Milltown Cemetery!This week, we're releasing a series of short interviews with Northern Irish Assembly Members supporting the Friends of Poland group, established at Stormont in May 2024. These videos will showcase the profound knowledge and relationships between Assembly Members and the Polish community in Northern Ireland, ahead of the Polish Heritage Day at the Assembly on May 31st.