In the heart of Liverpool, within the majestic Royal Liver Building, on October 5th, 2024, the highly anticipated and emotionally charged Stars Night Awards Gala 2024 took place. The event began at 6:00 PM with a symbolic glass of champagne, setting an atmosphere of exclusivity and elegance. The red carpet was hosted by Magdalena Piersa and Andrzej Galant, along with the invaluable presence of Michał Piersa, who captured their efforts on video. Magdalena and Andrzej conducted interviews with stars and guests, celebrating their stories of success and lives filled with passion. Their warm words and thoughtful questions reminded everyone present that they were part of a larger narrative – a story of how collective efforts and support can build something truly remarkable.

The guests were welcomed by Maria Anna Furman, Editor-in-Chief of Wyspa TV, and John Parker, founder of the "John’s Red Bus" initiative, known for his humanitarian work. Their opening of the gala had a nearly philosophical tone – a reminder of the strength of community, unity, and mutual respect. Consul Ilona Bajus, along with her husband, business partners, and esteemed guests, was warmly welcomed. Maria Anna Furman read a congratulatory letter from Teresa Sygnarek, President of the World Association of Polish Media, who expressed great admiration and congratulations for such a grand undertaking, and thanked the ‘Nie Hejtuję - Motywuję’ campaign for taking on the honorary patronage of the event.

"What we do matters not only to us but also to those who look to our actions with hope and inspiration," said Maria, expressing deep gratitude for the collaboration with the prestigious initiatives. The applause that followed her speech echoed approval, underscoring that this event touched the soul, not just the senses.

Consul Ilona Bajus expressed her recognition and admiration for the organizers and wished the guests a wonderful evening. She added that she hoped all the nominees would persevere in what they do and wished them continued success. Ilona Adamska then took the stage, sharing her personal story about dealing with hate speech and her noble pursuit of ethical leadership. She emphasized her partnership with Wyspa TV as a supporter of the ‘Nie Hejtuję - Motywuję’ campaign.

The Long-Awaited Moment: Award Presentations

The gala reached its climax with the much-anticipated award ceremony. The competition rules were briefly recapped: the jury, whose members would soon be introduced, had a difficult task – each nominee was evaluated based on a special point system. To qualify for the final and receive an award, participants had to score an average of 8 points out of a possible 10. The results were calculated systematically based on the jury’s assessments, and the awards were presented starting with those who received the lowest scores in this prestigious group.

It was also emphasized that the point system involved various categories from different countries, and more than one award could be presented in a category. According to the event’s policy, the number of awards could not be predetermined, as everything was in the hands of the jury, which required an average of 8 points to grant an award, and the event’s sponsor, Brimark, supported this innovative solution.
List of Award Winners
The list of winners was proof that hard work, dedication, and commitment can bring great achievements:

* Daniel Smykowski received the Leader Star award for his relentless work for the Polish community in England, scoring 8.00 points.

* Katarzyna Zimna earned the Leader Star award with a score of 8.11 points for her invaluable help to those in need and active involvement in the local community.

* Dorota Chomontowska who scored 8.22 points, received the Leader Star award for her outstanding achievements in real estate as the founder of Diamond Property Network.

* Emil Malczewski, with a score of 8.44 points, was awarded the Leader Star for his significant accomplishments in social, cultural, and sports activities. As a Brazilian jiu-jitsu coach with a black belt, his achievements were recognized by the jury.

* Dominik Bularz, a young sports phenomenon, scored 8.56 points and won the Debut Star award for his extraordinary talent in kickboxing, becoming a multiple world champion, with an impressive list of achievements that reflect his unwavering dedication and perseverance.

* Aldona Laczycka received the Project Star award, scoring 8.67 points. In a world dominated by fast cars, innovative technologies, and dynamic development, Aldona stands out as a revolutionary figure. An economist, businesswoman, and mentor, she proves that there are no barriers in business or technology that cannot be overcome.

* Damian Kutryb with a score of 8.89 points, received the Star of Inspiration award for his work as the founder and mentor of GFF Damian Dance Studio. He revolutionized the world of dance and fitness in Manchester, making him an icon and inspiration for many. Damian is a symbol of strength, courage, and resilience, where everyone has the right to express themselves and be accepted.

* Bożena Kiełbińska with a score of 9.00 points, received the Artistic Star award for her exceptional contribution to th development of operatic art. As an unparalleled opera singer with a rich repertoire and the creator of the Experimental Opera Stage in Kraków, she is known for boldly exploring new directions in staging.

* Advocate Marzena Konarzewska was honoured with the Leader Star award, scoring 9.44 points. Her commitment and activities on behalf of the Polish community in the UK have earned great recognition. For many years, she has served as the Chair of the Polish Ball in London, an event initiated by General Władysław Anders, and for over two decades, she has been offering charitable legal advice.

* Ilona Adamska coring 9.56 points, received the Star of Inspiration award. A publisher and editor-in-chief of prestigious magazines Imperium Kobiet and Law Business Quality, Ilona is also the author and editor of 15 books and e-books, as well as the president of the European Women's Business Club. Known for her charitable activities, she is the creator and driving force behind the ‘Nie Hejtuję - Motywuję’ campaign.

* Piotr Oller also scoring 9.56 points, received the Star of Inspiration award. A veteran soldier and UN peacekeeping mission participant in Cambodia and Lebanon, Piotr gained a reputation as an unyielding defender of peace and a helper to those in need. He is the founder of a school for children in Cambodia, where the Polish flag proudly flies.
Piotr Oller was also crowned Audience Star, winning the overwhelming majority of votes from Wyspa TV viewers.

Crowning Moment and Symbolic Triumph

The most emotional moment came with the crowning of Piotr Oller, who not only won the Star of Inspiration award but also became the Audience Star. His double recognition brought standing ovations, and his coronation on stage was a symbolic gesture of the triumph of goodness, perseverance, and service to others.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation, ensuring that all nominees felt acknowledged and valued. The philosophical message in the thank-you notes emphasized that the true measure of greatness lies not in personal success but in the hearts and minds that have been touched and inspired by one's actions.
Spectacular Performances and Gratitude
The official part of the evening was followed by a stunning performance by the phenomenal Muna Meachem from Tasty of Cairo, who captivated the audience with her exotic, interactive belly dance, symbolizing the joy of life and the power of artistic expression.

The gala also featured a breathtaking performance by the outstanding opera diva from Kraków, Bożena Kiełbińska, accompanied by Sandra Delong-Kiełbińska. This exceptional duo transported the audience into the magical world of classical music, leaving everyone enchanted.

The evening's remarkable atmosphere was further enhanced by the live music of The Charts, who provided exceptional musical entertainment throughout the night, filling the dance floor with energy and unforgettable moments.

Special Acknowledgments

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Olivia Wolska and Martyna Furman, who beautifully represented the event as hostesses. They were present at many key points of the gala – from welcoming guests to assisting with the award presentations and participating in the crowning of the double star of the evening, Piotr Oller. Their professionalism and charm added extra shine to the event.

Przemysław Majdak, along with Olivia and Martyna, successfully organized the lottery, raising £790. These funds will be allocated to organizing workshops on hate speech, which will be led by Ilona Adamska as part of the ‘Nie Hejtuję - Motywuję’ campaign. The first workshop will take place on January 10-11th in Liverpool and Manchester. This is an important step towards educating and building a community free of hate, and the funds raised will enable these noble actions to take place.

The evening also featured a gourmet three-course dinner, with a stunning cake prepared to celebrate the third anniversary of Wyspa TV. Agnieszka and Wiktoria Bąk from Happy Child and Party Decor with Wiktoria helped create a beautifully decorated space, ensuring that the visual setting matched the elegance of the evening. Party4All, led by Robert Lewandowski, provided sound, lighting, and live music, contributing to the unforgettable atmosphere.

VIP guests also had the opportunity to enjoy additional attractions, such as guided city tours and a visit to the top of the Royal Liver Building, where they could admire the stunning panorama of Liverpool and explore the famous clock tower.

The event concluded with numerous thanks, congratulations, and heartfelt words of appreciation from the participants. Maria Anna Furman received a beautiful, large bouquet of flowers in gratitude for her successful collaboration from Danuta Marciniak, one of the event’s sponsors, as well as from Marzena Spasówka and Janusz Gajownik from Print & Embroidery, donors of many of the event’s engraved graphic awards.

The Stars Night Awards 2024 will remain etched in the memories of all participants for a long time. It was not just an opportunity to honor outstanding achievements but also a reminder of the value of collaboration, support, and inspiration. See you at the next edition, which promises to surprise and delight even more participants.

Editor: Maria Anna Furman