Helena Kowal from Bolesławiec has been honored with the “Distinguished for Polish Culture” decoration, awarded by the Minister of Culture. The decoration ceremony took place during the January session of the City Council. The woman from Bolesławiec received the decoration from President Piotr Roman.
Helena Kowal is the originator, founder and leader of the “Klub Ciekawych Świata” Social Association in Bolesławiec. For 22 years, under the motto “you can see a lot for little money,” she has organized trips to learn about the customs and cultures of different nations. In 2006, on Helena Kowal’s initiative, the Opera Lovers’ Circle was established in Bolesławiec, and in 2009, the Theatre Lovers’ Circle was founded.
Thanks to the trips organized by H. Kowal, participants can experience culture in its fullest sense. Every year, thanks to Ms Kowal, more than a thousand people travel to Wrocław, Legnica or Jelenia Góra to see productions of theatrical, operatic and ballet classics, as well as contemporary and avant-garde works—all performed excellently. Outstanding creators, superb soloists and engaging productions provide all viewers with unforgettable artistic experiences. Since January 2012, the honoree has also encouraged activity in the municipality of Osiecznica, neighboring Bolesławiec, through the Rural Housewives’ Circle.
Helena Kowal promotes more than just culture. She also makes sure that younger generations do not forget Poland’s history. She is often invited to meet with school students, for whom she is a living history lesson. She gives talks about Katyń and Siberia. Her father, Franciszek Zadroga, was one of the victims of Katyń, and she herself, together with her mother, was deported to Siberia. Her experiences there left a deep mark on her personality, teaching her kindness, social commitment and humility. Municipal Grammar School No. 2 in Bolesławiec, named after Poles Exiled to Siberia, awarded Helena Kowal the “Honorary title of educator and teacher.”
(information: UM Bolesławiec/ii)