On 11 March 2025, the second edition of Silesia Ambassador Day took place in the remarkable post-industrial setting of the Historic Guido Coal Mine in Zabrze, 320 metres underground. This exclusive gathering brought together more than 50 distinguished representatives from academia and the business sector, emphasising the critical role of cross-sector collaboration in fostering congresses in the region.
The event also served as the official launch of the Silesia Ambassador Club, further strengthening the region’s credentials as a leading European destination for international congresses and conferences.
A Strategic Partnership Driving Regional Growth
The establishment of the club results from a tripartite agreement between:
- The Polish Tourism Organisation – Poland Convention Bureau
- The Polish Conference & Congress Association (SKKP)
- The Silesian Tourism Organisation – Silesia Convention Bureau
By hosting large-scale events, the region aims to attract high-calibre delegates from diverse industries, generating direct economic benefits for local businesses, including hotels, conference centres, restaurants, and PCOs. Additionally, the presence of global industry experts fosters unique networking opportunities and facilitates the exchange of innovative ideas.
“It is with immense pride and enthusiasm that I join the newly established Silesia Ambassador Club. I had the privilege of co-organising the 21st Congress of the European Association of Work and Organisational Psychology, held at the International Congress Centre in Katowice in 2023. This event was a resounding success. In recognition of my contribution to the successful execution of this congress, I was honoured with the Polish Congress Ambassador title for 2022–2023. As a psychologist, I deeply value the importance of in-person gatherings in fostering professional and academic collaboration. As a Silesian, I take great pride in the region’s remarkable capacity to host world-class events,” shared Dr Barbara Smorczewska, President of the Polish Association of Work and Organisational Psychology, member of the European Association of Work and Organisational Psychology, and academic at the University of Silesia in Katowice.
The Role of Congress Ambassadors in Enhancing Poland’s Global Standing
For over 25 years, the Polish Congress Ambassadors Programme has recognised individuals who play a crucial role in promoting Poland as a prime congress destination. Each year, a distinguished jury selects outstanding nominees and awards them the honorary title of Polish Congress Ambassador.
These ambassadors act as influential advocates, championing Poland’s strengths as an ideal location for international conferences and congresses. To date, more than 320 distinguished professionals have received this prestigious title, with dedicated support structures in place to assist in securing and hosting international events.
“The Poland Convention Bureau, through the Polish Congress Ambassadors Programme, the National Support Programme for the Meetings Industry, and the Promotional Support Programme for Meetings and Events, actively supports initiatives that enhance Poland’s attractiveness as a destination for association events. We are delighted to see the Silesia Convention Bureau spearheading this initiative. Events such as Silesia Ambassador Day provide a platform for knowledge exchange and further reinforce Poland’s position as a key player in the global meetings and events industry,” remarked Aneta Książek, Head of the Poland Convention Bureau.
