Polish community leaders in the UK recognised for cultural and educational work

The awards were presented at a formal gala on Monday 12 January at the National Army Museum in London.

Presentation of state awards to representatives of the Polish community in the United Kingdom, National Army Museum, London, 12 January 2026.

Photo: PAP/Leszek Szymański

Eleven members of the Polish diaspora in the United Kingdom were recognised for their contributions to cultural and educational initiatives, as well as for promoting the preservation of Polish identity among younger generations.

Recipients emphasised that the honour recognised not just individual achievement, but also the work of their institutions.

Dobrosława Platt, awarded the Gold Cross of Merit, told Polish Radio that the Polish Library at POSK in London, the only Polish government-supported institution abroad to have operated continuously for 84 years, continues to serve both the local Polish community and wider audiences through its library services, events and exhibitions.

Those honoured also stressed that the ceremony strengthened a sense of community and reinforced their motivation to continue efforts to preserve Polish identity and pass it on to future generations.

The event was held during President Karol Nawrocki’s two-day visit to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.

President Nawrocki praised the PL community in the UK as “the best ambassadors of Poland.” Their impact is visible everywhere - from the language on the streets to symbols worn by British soldiers, and the ever-popular folk music and dance by performance groups such as Mazury. pic.twitter.com/TyXL2R0gKh

— Polish Embassy UK 🇵🇱 (@PolishEmbassyUK) January 13, 2026

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(mp)

Source: IAR/X/@PolishEmbassyUK