Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anna Zieleniewska. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Anna , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
In 2020, my friends and I made a spontaneous decision to bring a fundraising event to Austin in support of the largest Polish nonprofit. We were filled with enthusiasm, but blissfully unaware of the complexities involved. Due to unforeseen circumstances, what was meant to be a collaborative effort quickly became a one-person operation. Producing the first fundraiser, managing all logistics, securing sponsors, obtaining permits, and coordinating every track turned into an immense challenge. Despite these challenges, the experience became a defining moment. It was a true test of resilience, resourcefulness, and passion. As difficult as it was at times, the satisfaction of overcoming these obstacles and seeing the event come to life was immeasurable. The experience of bringing the community together brought an overwhelming sense of fulfillment. It was then that I realized this is what truly drives me—what I love. I thrive on the energy I receive from others, and in turn, I find even more to give back.
Also, the event was a huge success.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I work in Global Mobility, where my role is to ensure that expatriate families have a seamless and stress-free relocation experience. Having personally navigated the challenges of moving to a new country, especially with a family, I deeply empathize with my clients. This personal understanding fuels my commitment to providing exceptional support throughout their entire relocation journey, making it incredibly fulfilling to guide others through such a transformative experience.
I also co-founded a nonprofit that connects people through art, and our mission is all about bringing the film, music, and visual arts of Central and Eastern European artists to the forefront while building bridges between cultures. Dot Dot Dot…Connect is growing fast and becoming a key player in Austin’s cultural scene!
We’ve had the amazing opportunity to bring some incredible experiences to the city—like Polish poster exhibits, a mural honoring Tamara de Lempicka, and an exhibition of a legendary photographer, Chris Niedenthal, with the artist himself there to share his story. Every event has been met with enthusiasm and support.
Right now, we’re cooking up something truly innovative: a multidisciplinary event that will mix literature, food, film, and history. It’s something Austin has never seen before, and we can’t wait to bring it to life!
Additionally, the fundraiser we launched in 2020 has evolved into an annual event, steadily growing by engaging Polish communities across other cities in Texas. Today, we’re a cohesive and dynamic team that works seamlessly together, all while having a great time. Over the years, our efforts have raised more than $100,000, a testament to the dedication and passion that drives us to make a meaningful impact.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Curiosity, determination, and adaptability.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
When I was 13, my parents decided to send me to a month-long summer language school in England, where I would stay with a host family. At the time, I could barely speak English, had never been away from my family for so long, and had never traveled abroad on my own.
However, not only did my English skills improve dramatically—from beginner to advanced—but the experience was truly eye-opening. I met peers from all over the world, learned about their cultures, and forged lasting friendships with people from far-flung places. My best friend was a girl from Brazil, and back then, South America felt as distant to Poland as Mars!
It was the first time I truly felt connected to a global community and understood that, despite our differences, we all share a common bond. It was a life-changing experience that instilled in me a deep love for cross-cultural connections and the power of unity.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azieleniewska/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azieleniewska/
- Other: https://www.wospaustin.org
https://dotdotdotconnect.org
Image Credits
Karolina Ferguson, Gosia Domas, Aneta Hayne, Katarzyna Niedzielska.
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