Katarzyna Olejnik - director of the International Primary School "Paderewski" in Lublin

Polish philologist, principal, and co-creator of the educational philosophy of the only primary school in Lublin authorized to offer the international programs of the International Baccalaureate (IB). Board member of CRH Akademos Sp. z o.o., the governing body of the International Paderewski Schools in Lublin. Author of methodological materials, publications, educational guides, and online courses.

As an expert, trainer, and tutor, she collaborates with leading Polish educational institutions such as the Centre for Citizenship Education, the University of Warsaw School of Education, and the Polish-American Freedom Foundation. She conducts workshops and conferences for school principals on educational leadership, is a member of the team promoting Peter Liljedahl's innovative mathematics teaching method, Thinking Classroom, while working on its adaptation to teaching Polish language and literature.

She believes in a school based on empathy, critical thinking, and respect for the individuality of students and teachers. She envisions bold changes in the education system: purposeful, well-planned, and grounded in scientific research.