Andrzej Pochoebut Was Named “Person Of The Year” In Poland

• 21.10.2026, 10:06

The audience greeted the announcement of his name with a standing ovation.

Andrzej Poczobut was named “Person of the Year” by the prestigious Polish “Golden Laurel” award. The award was presented to him by Belarusian human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Beliatski, according to "Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty".

After the winner’s name was announced, everyone in the audience rose from their seats and gave a long standing ovation.

In his speech, Andrzej Poczobut emphasized that he does not consider himself a hero. He called the ordinary people in Belarus—especially the activists of the Union of Poles, who continued their work despite persecution—the true heroes.

According to Pochobut, every award is an opportunity for him to draw attention to these people.

The ceremony took place on October 20 in Warsaw. The “Super Biznes Golden Laurel” is an annual Polish award that has been presented since 2014 for achievements and contributions to the development of Poland’s economy and public life. Among the past recipients was Ales Bialiatski himself, who was honored in the “Person of the Year” category in 2023.