Changing the world for the better. The KALYNA Foundation: a story of courage, truth, and the future
Real change requires more than just good intentions. It takes courage to tackle difficult issues, determination to overcome obstacles, and a vision that enables you to realise a better future when others can only see problems.
As lawyers who deal with facts, evidence and the pursuit of justice on a daily basis, we recognise the power of small actions that change the world for the better, day after day and year after year.
This is our seventh year with the KALYNA Polish-Ukrainian-Canadian Scholarship Foundation. Another year where, with so little, we have done so much good.
Our mission in action. Why do we support the KALYNA Foundation?
Truth, responsibility and investing in human potential form the foundation of our professional lives and all our social engagement activities.
We see these same ideals reflected in the work of the KALYNA Foundation. This is not philanthropy for the sake of image. It is a conscious partnership in a mission that is close to our hearts.
By supporting the Foundation, we not only provide financial assistance – we become part of real change that is taking place in two areas that are very important to us.
The first is fostering difficult dialogue about the complex history of Polish-Ukrainian relations, and the second is investing in the future by supporting the education of young, talented Ukrainians whose lives have been affected by war.
We believe that building bridges of understanding and opening doors to the world for young people is the best and most lasting investment in a peaceful and secure tomorrow.
That is why, every year, we host the Foundation Council and listen to its deliberations, becoming an active participant and an objective witness to the changes it is making.
A meeting at the heart of things: successes, challenges and a new path
This year’s Foundation Council meeting, attended by Grażyna Staniszewska, Prof. Andrzej Friszke, Prof. Tomasz Stryjek, Ewa Pocztar, Adam Stec, Barbara Imiołczyk, and Diana Tavera of Kochański & Partners, demonstrated the dynamic and challenging nature of working for change.
The problem: How can we ensure a future for young people in the shadow of war?
The solution: Scholarships that change lives
Wiktoria, a marketing and social media student, and Olena and Vitalij, students at AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow. These scholarships are more than just financial aid; they’re a clear sign that the world hasn’t forgotten them and is backing their potential.
The problem: How can we talk about our painful history in a way that heals wounds rather than opens new ones?
The solution: A courageous book that seeks the truth
KALINA is unafraid of difficult topics, which is why it co-financed the publication of Dr Mariusz Sawa’s book „Pociski jak paciorki różańca”.
The author attended the meeting remotely to speak about the book’s fantastic reception, which caused a huge stir in influential media outlets such as Gazeta Wyborcza, Przegląd Prawosławny and Polityka.
The book touches upon one of the most painful episodes in Polish-Ukrainian relations: the events in Sahryn in March 1944.
This is not a book that offers simple answers. As the author emphasises in one passage, his work reminds us that “people killed people; Christians killed Christians (…)”. Dr Sawa encourages reflection and prioritises historical truth over national narratives.
The rapid selling out of the first print run and the subsequent demand for a reprint are clear evidence of the urgent need for such discussions today. Dr Sawa’s numerous invitations to book signings, including within Ukrainian circles, demonstrate that dialogue is possible.
The problem: How can you operate effectively when the rules of the game change?
The solution: Adapt and seek new paths
It is the Foundation’s determination and ability to overcome obstacles that make it so effective.
It’s great to be part of this initiative — a story that proves business involvement can and should be more than just a duty; it should be a passion and a genuine means of building a better, fairer and more conscious world.
Do you have any questions about our work with the KALYNA Foundation, or would you like to find out more? Contact us
Piotr Kochański
