Author: Katarzyna Halicka

“Women, You Are Strength.” A unique exhibition returns to Olivia

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

Twelve women, twelve personal stories of illness, hope, and returning to everyday life. Olivia is once again hosting the exhibition “Women, You Are Strength,” prepared by “Dziennik Bałtycki” in cooperation with the Gdańsk-based OmeaLife Foundation. The exhibition is part of the October #Pinktober campaign, reminding us of the importance of breast cancer prevention.

 

The heroines of the exhibition are beneficiaries of the OmeaLife Foundation who have faced cancer and decided to publicly share their experiences. In photographs by Agata Zatorska, we see women who, despite difficult experiences, pursue their plans, develop passions, and enjoy life. The portraits are maintained in warm, amber colors. Amber symbolizes feminine strength, to which the project’s title refers. Each photograph is accompanied by a QR code leading to the heroine’s personal story. These stories can be heard, among other places, on the dedicated project page of “Dziennik Bałtycki.”

 

One of the exhibition’s heroines is Anna Ziemiańska, former president of the Amazonki association, who participated in its opening. “We, women who have experienced breast cancer, talk about how to get through it. We also show how important prevention is. And that it’s not the end of the world; you can live on and help others.”

 

During the opening, Izabela Malicki, a psychologist and psycho-oncologist, also spoke, drawing attention to the fear accompanying a suspected cancer diagnosis and the importance of early detection. “The first reaction is usually anxiety and the question: will I live, can this be cured? That’s why prevention is so important. Early detection of changes offers a very high chance of full recovery.”

 

Photo by Przemysław Świderski | Dziennik Bałtycki

 

This October at Olivia Centre is rich in initiatives dedicated to health and prevention. On October 2, during Health Day, 59 women benefited from examinations in the mammobus, and 90 people had blood tests. The event concluded with the 4th MotoCYCle Rally, during which motorcyclists in pink attire rode through the streets of Gdańsk, encouraging regular check-ups.

 

The opening of the “Women, You Are Strength” exhibition was also accompanied by the pink illumination of Olivia Star. The tallest building in northern Poland lit up in pink once again as a gesture of solidarity with those battling breast cancer.

 

Photo by Maciej Roszkowski | We Love Photo

 

 

The exhibition can be viewed in the Olivia Star lobby until November 4.
We invite you to visit the exhibition and learn the stories of its heroines.

 

 

LeadWell 2026. Two Days of Conversations on Leadership at Olivia Centre

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

The third edition of LeadWell is behind us — one of the most important leadership events in the Pomerania region. The conference, organized by O4 Coworking with Olivia Centre as strategic partner, brought together as many as 180 leaders, managers, and experts representing various industries and organizations.

This year’s program included 6 substantive talks, 2 panel discussions, 9 workshops, and 20 thematic networking tables. Over the course of two days, LeadWell participants discussed the challenges of modern leadership, exchanged experiences, and worked on solutions they can apply in their own organizations.

From difficult decisions to practical solutions

The first day of the conference took place on the 34th floor of Olivia Star. Among the speakers were Krzysztof Wielicki, a legend of world Himalayan mountaineering; Prof. Grzegorz Mazurek, rector of Kozminski University, an expert in digital transformation and management; Witold Kowalski, former CEO of Nike Poland, mentor in the European Commission’s innovative projects and PARP’s Innovation Manager Academy; Rafał Żak, an expert in leadership development, Paweł Wujec, former CEO of K2 Holding (now Fabrity Group), longtime head of Gazeta.pl and Managing Director for Internet at Agora Publishing House, with over 25 years of experience in the media and digital business markets, and Maciej Sawicki — CEO of inStreamly, a platform connecting over 150,000 streamers with global brands across 14 markets, and creator of the “trust instead of control” model.

Discussions covered mistakes and failures, responsibility, building trust, managing change, making difficult decisions, and various models of work organization. In the evening, participants met again for networking at Olivia Garden.

 

The second day, held at O4 Coworking, had a workshop format. In three thematic blocks, participants worked with expert practitioners on specific challenges related to communication, negotiation, team engagement, conflict resolution, and wellbeing.

 

Leadership doesn’t have to mean being alone

One of the most memorable talks was Krzysztof Wielicki’s story about a difficult situation in the mountains. The mountaineer recalled a moment when, in an extremely demanding situation, he saw a person approaching him. “He couldn’t come down for me. I had to do it myself. But just knowing that someone was coming toward me, that I could count on him, gave me strength. That kind of partnership is incredibly important.”

 

As Martyna Czarnobaj-Borowska of O4 Coworking, the conference organizer, points out, this story captures one of LeadWell’s core values well. Leaders often have to make difficult decisions on their own, but the ability to talk with people facing similar challenges, and the awareness of mutual support, make a tremendous difference.

 

Piotr Klik, Sales Management Manager in the Affluent Client Segment at Bank Pekao SA, also noted the diversity of participants. In his account, he emphasized that LeadWell brings together representatives from management, HR, IT, and sales, from both large corporations and micro-enterprises. He also praised the practical nature of the conference’s second day, which allowed participants to return to work with concrete knowledge and an action plan.

Photo: Arek Burcon

Olivia Centre — a meeting place for leaders

Olivia Centre hosted LeadWell for the third time and served as the conference’s strategic partner. As the largest business center in Northern Poland, it brings together companies representing various industries, business models, and organizational cultures. Supporting initiatives such as LeadWell is part of Olivia’s efforts to develop the local business community, promote knowledge exchange, and build relationships among entrepreneurs, managers, and experts.

 

The event was organized by O4 Coworking, operating within Olivia.

 

This year’s edition showed how important it is for the development of leadership competencies not only to draw on the knowledge and experience of experts, but also to have the opportunity for open conversation with other leaders about the everyday challenges of managing people and organizations.

 

 

Photo: Arek Burcon

Jump High For Santa Claus! We invite you to participate in the charity tournament!

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

In accordance with our tradition, we are supporting the Bayer team, which is organizing the ‘JUMP HIGH FOR SANTA CLAUS!’ charity Christmas volleyball tournament for the 6th time. When? This time on November 29th, because it’s well-known that time is needed to pack gifts! Anyone can participate in the tournament! Gather your team, let Dawid, who oversees everything, know, have a great time, and multiply good deeds in the process! THE ENTIRE ENTRY FEE once again goes to Father Dutkiewicz Hospice in Gdańsk!

 

When do we play? November 29th from 9:00 AM until… (it all depends on the number of teams)

 

Where do we play? At Ergo Arena (plac Dwóch Miast 1, Gdańsk)

 

Who are we playing for? All collected funds will go entirely to sick children from Father Dutkiewicz Hospice in Gdańsk, because – whenever we can – we want to ensure children have peaceful holidays with their dream gift under the Christmas tree.

 

What do we promise? Action-packed matches, fun moments, and above all, immense satisfaction from helping others!

 

Entry fee: 1500 PLN per team

 

 

Mark this date in your calendars: November 29th!
Gather your team and sign up with Dawid.
You have until November 22nd.
Email: dawid.frymark@bayer.com

 

 

Here are some assumptions. We have a moment, so we’ll clarify everything soon! We assume that:

 

  • Tournament participants form teams representing their companies/organizations.
  • A team consists of 6 players on the court and some reserves 😉
  • Each team must designate a captain.
  • The tournament will be played according to official volleyball rules, with certain possible modifications that will be announced before the tournament begins.
  • The registration fee is 1500 PLN net per team.
  • Team or player registration is done by email to the organizers and by paying the registration fee to the Hospice’s account.
  • Email address for registrations: dawid.frymark@bayer.com
  • Registrations are accepted until 2026-11-22.

 

 

JOIN US!

#GBSGdanskVolleyball #JumpHighForSanta #SpikeAndSleigh #OliviaTeam

 

 

 

 

 

 

SK hynix Chooses Olivia Centre. Global Leader in Semiconductor Memory Technology Expands Operations in Gdańsk

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

SK hynix, one of the world’s largest semiconductor memory manufacturers, joins the ranks of Olivia Centre residents. SK hynix memory solutions Poland, a company belonging to the South Korean conglomerate, has leased nearly 2,800 sq m of space in the Gdańsk complex. The new headquarters will feature modern offices, a specialized testing laboratory, and server facilities. This investment is linked to the further development of the company’s operations in Poland.

 

SK hynix is one of the global leaders in the semiconductor industry, specializing in the production of DRAM and NAND Flash memory, used in computers, mobile devices, and data centers, among others. The technologies developed by the conglomerate also play a significant role in the artificial intelligence sector, whose dynamic growth increases the demand for efficient data processing and storage systems.

 

SK hynix memory solutions Poland already conducts research and development activities in Gdańsk. The team of specialists is involved in, among other things, embedded software development and verification of memory controllers used in SSDs and mobile devices. Moving operations to Olivia Centre is another stage in the company’s development, gaining a new location that combines daily team work with advanced technological facilities. Key factors in choosing the headquarters included transport accessibility, developed business infrastructure, and the ability to attract qualified employees.

 

– Entering Olivia Centre is an important step for us in developing our operations in Poland and the entire region. We are creating a modern center for employees in Gdańsk that will support the development of advanced memory technologies and solutions for the AI ecosystem – says Katarzyna Przybysz, Managing Director at SK hynix memory solutions Poland.

 

Modern Offices and a Specialized Laboratory

 

SK hynix’s new headquarters will combine office functions with advanced engineering and technological facilities. One of its most important elements will be a specialized laboratory designed for testing DRAM and NAND Flash memory products. Alongside the laboratory spaces, a server room, office workstations, and rest and sports activity zones for employees have also been planned.

 

Preparing nearly 2,800 sq m of space required considering diverse technical and operational needs. The laboratory and server facilities have different requirements than traditional office spaces, which is why appropriate infrastructural solutions had to be included already at the design stage. Abundo Space is responsible for the interior design and adapting the space to the tenant’s specialized needs, executing the project in cooperation with the Gdańsk architectural studio Design Anatomy.

 

– For the first time, we had the opportunity to design a space for a technology company where the laboratory and server room played an equally important role as the office work zones. This combination of functionality, modern technologies, and user comfort was an exceptionally interesting design process for us – says Monika Szawernowska, Chief Sales Officer at Abundo Space.

 

The layout of the new headquarters takes into account diverse functions and working methods. Individual zones will serve both daily team work and product testing or technological infrastructure support. Spaces conducive to employee rest and activity have also been provided.

 

Adaptation works include preparing the space for the installation of specialized research equipment and server hardware. After their completion, the Gdańsk SK hynix team will continue and develop its operations in the new location.

 

Olivia Centre Attracts Global Technology Companies

 

SK hynix joining the ranks of Olivia Centre residents is another example of the complex’s appeal to international technology enterprises. The company’s new headquarters also demonstrates how diverse functions modern office spaces can fulfill, combining traditional workplaces with advanced research and technological infrastructure.

 

Olivia Centre is one of the largest business complexes in Poland. Located on Grunwaldzka Avenue, one of the main communication arteries of the Tri-City, it comprises seven office buildings and extensive service and recreational infrastructure. The complex features restaurants, cafes, service points, and a fitness center, with conference spaces also available. One of the most recognizable facilities is Olivia Star, with a publicly accessible observation deck at a height of 130 meters.

 

Olivia Centre brings together companies representing various sectors of the economy, including international technology enterprises and organizations conducting research and development activities. It creates an environment conducive to cooperation, exchange of experience, and business development.

 

– We are pleased to welcome SK hynix memory solutions Poland to the Olivia Centre community – says Michał Klepczyński, Director of Lease Department Olivia Centre.

 

The presence of SK hynix will enrich Olivia’s business community with another representative of the global advanced technology sector. At the same time, the implemented project confirms the complex’s ability to adapt its spaces to individual, even highly specialized, tenant needs.

 

Knight Frank Advised in the Lease Process

 

In the process of selecting a new location, SK hynix memory solutions Poland was represented by the international advisory firm Knight Frank. Its activities included market analysis of commercial real estate, selection of the optimal location, negotiation of lease terms, and project management support.

 

A significant element of the process was finding space that would allow for the combination of traditional office functions with specialized engineering facilities, while also providing appropriate conditions for the further development of the company’s operations.

 

– We are delighted to have advised SK hynix. Thanks to the strong commitment of both the tenant and the landlord, the process ran smoothly, and our team’s many years of experience and knowledge of the Tri-City market allowed us to find solutions that best met the company’s needs – comments Joanna Gomułkiewicz, Associate Director at Knight Frank.

 

SK hynix’s choice of Olivia Centre is an important step in the company’s development in Gdańsk, and for the complex, another opportunity to support international technological business. The new headquarters will create a space adapted for specialists developing technologies used in global markets, including solutions supporting the development of artificial intelligence.

Welcome SK hynix memory solutions Poland to Olivia Centre!

Time to sum up summer at Olivia!

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

The summer period is usually a time when business slows down, offices become more relaxed, deadlines lose some of their urgency, and the holiday season tends to stretch them out even further. This is the typical summer office reality in most workplaces — but it’s not a rule that applies everywhere. Gdańsk’s Olivia Centre sums up the summer and proves that this season, the largest business center in Poland was anything but short on initiatives.

 

Residents enjoy special privileges

Summer has inevitably come to an end, and the close of the season offers a good opportunity for a summary — especially since Olivia Centre has plenty to be proud of. The diversity, intensity, and sheer number of events is impressive. For years, Olivia has been running a range of projects designed to bring the community together. In doing so, it aims to create added value for its residents and their employees. These efforts are centered around numerous passion development clubs, covering areas as varied and unexpected as a sailing club and a choir, a photography club and a football league, historical walks through Gdańsk’s districts, and conversations between attorney Bogusław Wieczorek and experts in the “Rozmowy O!” talks.

 

This season was rich in events — not only on the Olivia premises, but also across many districts of Gdańsk and on the waters of the Gulf of Gdańsk. For the second year in a row, employees of Residents had the chance to train in beach volleyball on full-size courts right in the heart of Olivia. As many as 24 teams took part in the summer tournament. Daily training sessions were made easier thanks to an online court booking system, which employees greatly appreciate. One of the main challenges with seaside courts is precisely the need to wait for availability.

 

The Polish national volleyball team trained on these courts

One of the most exciting events of the season was the training camp of the National Deaf Beach Volleyball Team, both men’s and women’s squads, who trained at Olivia ahead of the season’s biggest event — the Deaf European Championships. It turned out that the Olivia courts brought them luck, as in July, Team Poland won two medals: gold, claimed by the men’s team, and bronze, won by the women’s team. This marked the first time in the history of Polish deaf beach volleyball that Poland’s representatives won two medals at a European Championship.

 

This season’s sporting events also included a day of Hyrox-style workouts led by Błażej Wesołowski, as well as Active Day, during which participants had access to numerous activities throughout the day. At 7 a.m., they set off to paddle on SUP boards, while another group practiced yoga on Olivia’s patio at 8 a.m., and the rest of the day was packed with attractions such as a Ninja-style workout, a body composition analysis on a professional scale under the supervision of CityFit trainers, an Air Bike workout, and group dance sessions with choreography lessons. That day also featured the season wrap-up of the Olivia Centre football league, with the day’s finale taking place on the waters of the bay during an evening sailing session at sunset with the organizers of Olivia Yacht Club.

 

In August, six-time Paralympic champion Natalia Partyka invited everyone to a morning warm-up: a table tennis table-running tournament, during which participants had the chance to compete against Poland’s multi-medalist and start their day with some activity. Olivia’s sporty summer was also full of attractions such as padel tournaments, participation in the Ultras Oliwski run, and the official presentation of Energa Trefl Gdańsk players ahead of the volleyball season, which also featured an exhibition match, a chill-out zone with music, and players signing autographs, posing for photos, and sharing their passion for the sport.

 

History and community involvement

For another year in a row, Olivia was a partner of the “Viva Oliva” district festival — an event full of concerts, outdoor antique fairs, open-air painting sessions, theater and music performances, as well as games and activities for all ages. This summer, Olivia Centre also invited everyone to explore Gdańsk’s districts with the Local Guides. During the walks, history enthusiasts and local residents shared literary inspirations and artistic themes connected to each location, often adding personal touches to their stories. Each walk offered a new way to discover the city. At times, the stories told by the guides even surprised the oldest residents of a given district. This year, the walks covered such Gdańsk districts as Siedlce, Dolne Miasto, Biskupia Górka, and Oliwa.

 

As in previous years, the season of outdoor events closed with a performance by 6 combined choirs, including the Olivia Centre Choir. This time, the centerpiece of the concert was a performance of Grzegorz Turnau’s “Między Ciszą, a ciszą.” Nearly 200 people gathered on Olivia’s patio, performing not only this year’s featured piece but also their own arrangements of popular songs, including Katarzyna Nosowska’s “Sobie i Wam.”

A benefit for everyone

Many initiatives come from the Residents themselves. This was the case with the Olivia Choir, which owes its beginnings to Remigiusz Wojciechowski, Director of Bayer’s Business Services Center. It was his passion for singing that inspired him to establish an in-house choir. The need to develop it further and attract more male voices led the initiative to evolve into a project that now includes over 40 people from more than a dozen companies.

 

Running passion development clubs is often quite a challenge, but experience shows that they serve many important functions — and their significance for the center itself, its employees, and the companies leasing offices at Olivia is hard to overstate. A few years ago, we recognized the enormous potential within a community of several thousand people who work at Olivia every day — says Dorota Buzek-Garzyńska, Director of Communications at Olivia Centre. We decided to make the most of it by creating a space not only for work, but also for pursuing interests, spending time actively, developing new skills, and building relationships. Today, we organize dozens of diverse sporting, cultural, and developmental initiatives that attract hundreds of participants and have become an important part of our community’s life. We saw their significance especially clearly during the return to offices after the pandemic. On the days when we organized events and activities, we noticed higher attendance at Olivia. That showed us that an office can be more than just a place to carry out daily tasks — it can be a space for meetings, inspiration, and shared experiences. Today, we can confidently say that this offering is one of the elements that shape Olivia’s unique character. It’s used by employees of our Residents, for whom the opportunity to take part in a rich program of events is an added value and a complement to their employee benefits. Importantly, our initiatives matter not only for integration and atmosphere, but also serve as a meaningful argument in the sales conversations of our commercialization team. They show that Olivia is not just modern office space, but above all, an active and engaged community.

 

 

Renaissance Man. Olivia Centre Partner of TEDx Gdańsk University of Technology 2026

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

What connects a scientist, artist, traveler, and entrepreneur? Curiosity about the world, openness to new ideas, and the conviction that sometimes it’s worth taking risks and pushing one’s own boundaries. This is precisely what the fifth edition of TEDx Gdańsk University of Technology, themed “Renaissance Man,” will be about, taking place on November 14. Olivia Centre is a partner of this inspiring event.

 

In a world of increasingly narrow specializations, is there still room for versatility? Can combining knowledge from various fields be the key to innovation? The organizers of this year’s TEDx encourage seeking answers to these very questions. They argue that the most interesting ideas often emerge at the intersection of science, technology, business, and art, and the ability to view reality from different perspectives is particularly valuable today.

 

TEDx: Ideas Worth Spreading

 

TED is an international non-profit organization whose history began in 1984 with a conference dedicated to Technology, Entertainment, and Design. Today, TED is a global platform for exchanging knowledge and inspiration, covering topics from science and business, through education and culture, to the most significant challenges of the contemporary world. Its mission is best encapsulated by the slogan “Ideas Worth Spreading.”

 

TEDx, in turn, refers to independently organized, local events held under license from TED. On their stages, scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, social activists, and passionate individuals gather to share experiences, discoveries, and unconventional perspectives on the reality around us. Every year, thousands of such events take place worldwide, inspiring conversations, broadening horizons, and transforming interesting ideas into concrete actions.

 

Who will we hear on stage in Gdańsk?

 

Among the announced speakers for TEDx Gdańsk University of Technology 2026 are representatives from various backgrounds whose experiences perfectly embody the idea of a contemporary Renaissance Man.

 

  • Mariusz Majewski, traveler, the first Pole to visit all 193 UN-recognized countries before the age of forty. He will speak about rebuilding life after extreme experiences.
  • Łukasz Muszyński, journalist, film critic, and editor-in-chief of Filmweb. He will explore how to navigate a world of unlimited access to films and series.
  • Karina Marciniec, clinical psychologist, academic lecturer, and social activist. She will encourage courage in choosing more than one life path.
  • Michał Będkowski, music producer, three-time Fryderyk award winner, graphic and motion designer. He will discuss the pitfalls of versatility.
  • Aleksandra Niewiadomska, HR expert, founder of the find and co-founder of NURT. She will address the topic of freedom and the role of principles in team functioning.
  • Karolina Szczepaniak, sports psychologist, coach, and world record holder in long-distance swimming. She will speak about pushing the limits of human endurance.
  • Joanna Czerska, Lean Management expert, consultant, lecturer, and president of the Lean Education Foundation. She will examine how to create an environment conducive to development and engagement.
  • Szymon Kranz, popularizer of Gdańsk history, creator of Gdańsk Stories, and author of the book “Gdańsk. An Unofficial Guide for Tourists and Residents.” He will share lesser-known stories related to the city.
  • Maks Małecki, IT expert and Tech Lead at Insly, specializing in solutions using artificial intelligence, among others. In his presentation, he will connect the topic of technology with the idea of a Renaissance Man.

 

More than just inspiring speeches

 

TEDx Gdańsk University of Technology is much more than a conference. The organizers are preparing a richer workshop program than ever before, an expanded artistic section featuring artists and performers, and a space for networking and exchanging experiences. It’s an opportunity to meet people with diverse interests, challenge one’s own beliefs with new ideas, and find inspiration for action.

 

Olivia Centre is pleased to support initiatives that connect communities, inspire development, and foster knowledge exchange. We are delighted to be a partner of this year’s TEDx Gdańsk University of Technology and invite you to participate in the event!

 

 

Organizational information

Date: November 14, 2026 (Saturday), 9:30 AM–6:00 PM

Location: Main Building of Gdańsk University of Technology, ul. Gabriela Narutowicza 11/12, Gdańsk

 

 

Tickets

Agenda of the event

 

We know the winners of the 7th Oliwa Neighborhood Budget!

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

A food-sharing station in Oliwa, photographic portraits of residents marking the 100th anniversary of the district’s incorporation into Gdańsk, intergenerational craft workshops, and another edition of the concert in Oliwa Park. These are the four projects awarded in the 7th edition of the Oliwa Neighborhood Budget. This year’s program pool amounts to PLN 24,000, with prize funding provided by Olivia Centre, Andrzej Stelmasiewicz, and Przemysław Skokowski, a councillor for the Przymorze Małe district.

 

The awards ceremony took place on October 20 at the Oliwa Culture Town Hall. This year’s winners proposed projects of a very diverse nature, ranging from practical solutions that make food sharing easier to cultural initiatives that highlight the district’s history, encourage community gatherings, and draw attention to important social issues. The ceremony concluded with a lecture titled “Oliwa Park and the Green Surroundings of Oliwa,” delivered by Dr. Habil. Eng. Arch. Katarzyna Rozmarynowska, an architect, urban planner, and researcher of the history of Gdańsk’s gardens, a longtime lecturer at Gdańsk University of Technology, and author of numerous academic publications on the history of urban greenery, including the book “Vanishing Gardens…? From the History of Gdańsk’s Public Green Spaces 1708–1945.”

 

The Oliwa Neighborhood Budget was established in 2020 on the initiative of Olivia Centre, to support ideas from residents and local organizations working for the benefit of Oliwa and Przymorze Małe. From the very beginning, the project’s partner has been Andrzej Stelmasiewicz, an Oliwa-based entrepreneur, community activist, and cultural animator, founder of the Gdańsk Community Foundation. In 2024, Przemysław Skokowski, an entrepreneur and councillor for the Przymorze Małe district, joined the group of funders. Together with Olivia Centre, they contribute their own funds to carry out neighborhood initiatives. This year, that amount totals PLN 24,000.

 

Funding may be applied for by non-governmental organizations, foundations, associations, local organizations, as well as residents themselves. Projects are evaluated by a jury made up of representatives from local institutions, community activists, district representatives, and Olivia Centre.

 

Four funded projects

One of the winners is the Regional Volunteer Centre in Gdańsk, which submitted the project “Food-Sharing Station at RSM Budowlani.” The first small food-sharing station in Gdańsk—a publicly accessible fridge and shelf for food placed inside a building—will be set up in a housing cooperative building at 569 Grunwaldzka Avenue. Anyone will be able to leave surplus, good-quality food there or take products donated by others free of charge. Local entrepreneurs will also be invited to take part in the initiative. The project, coordinated by Karol Krzyczkowski, aims to reduce food waste and serve residents, including the many seniors living in the cooperative’s housing stock. The Regional Volunteer Centre in Gdańsk already has experience running a food-sharing station in Gdańsk’s Orunia district.

 

“Faces of Oliwa. Stories and Frames” is a project by Daria Balabai, a cultural animator, film director, and founder of the Ukrainian Library in Gdańsk. To mark the 100th anniversary of Oliwa’s incorporation into Gdańsk, a series of resident portraits will be created using traditional photographic techniques, in the style of the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Those photographed will include both people with generations-long ties to Oliwa and its newer residents, including people with migration backgrounds. The photographs will be accompanied by their personal stories and memories. The project also includes analog photography workshops, an outdoor exhibition, and the creation of a digital archive, which will help preserve residents’ stories for future generations.

 

Also among the winners is the Park ON Association, which supports people with Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions, as well as their caregivers. The association will organize, for the eighth time, the “Concert in the Park with James P. and a Hat in the Background.” The free event will take place on July 4, 2027, in Oliwa Park. Concerts organized by Park ON have attracted residents and tourists for years, combining music with raising awareness about Parkinson’s disease. They are also an opportunity to thank individuals and institutions that support patients. The organizers place particular emphasis on making the event accessible to those whose health makes it difficult to attend concerts held indoors. It has also become a tradition for the audience to wear hats and fanciful headgear. The concert will be accompanied by a presentation of ceramic works made by association members and the presentation of “Uskrzydlenia” statuettes.

 

The fourth award-winning project is “Intergenerational Meetings,” submitted by Anna Wesołowska-Owczarska of the informal neighborhood group Pirates Club. Four craft workshops will be held at the “Przy Rynku” library in Przymorze, during which residents of various ages will work together to create jewelry from beads, natural stones, and elements of old ornaments. The project’s initiator hopes to encourage participants not only to creatively reuse recycled materials, but also to talk and share family stories. The workshops will be an opportunity to meet neighbors, develop interests, and spend time without phones or social media.

 

From Idea to Implementation

In the Oliwa Neighborhood Budget, what matters most are ideas that respond to residents’ needs. This year’s winners propose both new ventures, such as the Food-Sharing Station and Oliwa’s photographic archive, and the continuation of initiatives that already have loyal and engaged participants and audiences.

Seven editions of the program also mean seven years of cooperation between Olivia Centre and residents, social organizations, local entrepreneurs, and district representatives. Thanks to joint funding, projects can be realized that their initiators would otherwise find difficult to finance on their own. And residents of Oliwa and Przymorze Małe gain new places, events, and opportunities for working together.

“Between Silence and Silence.” Six Choirs, One Voice, and a Lot of Good Energy

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

It was an evening full of music, emotions, and good energy. During the “O!WACJE. Positive Concert for the End of Summer,” Olivia Centre’s patio was once again filled with hundreds of voices. The Olivia Centre Choir, along with five Tricity choirs, performed Grzegorz Turnau’s “Between Silence and Silence.” It was cheerful, reflective, and very communal. Exactly as it was meant to be.

 

A year earlier, it was “For Ourselves and For You.” Eight choirs, nearly 150 performers, and Katarzyna Nosowska’s words became a musical wish for peace, balance, and mindfulness towards others. That gathering showed that singing together can be much more than just a concert. Therefore, the story continued. This time, Grzegorz Turnau’s “Between Silence and Silence” resonated on the Olivia Centre patio. A piece that, on one hand, brings lightness and cheerfulness, and on the other, reminds us how much we need moments of pause, silence, and mindfulness. In a special arrangement prepared for the occasion by Beata Wróblewska from the Academy of Music in Gdańsk, the piece was performed by six choirs. And when the audience joined the singers, the boundary between stage and audience virtually disappeared.

 

Six Different Choirs. One Music

 

Performing on stage were:

Olivia Centre Choir conducted by Wiktoria Pagieła

Fahrenheit Universities Alumni Choir “Non Serio” conducted by Beata Borowicz

Oliwa Neighborhood House Choir “Po Sąsiadach” conducted by Beata Borowicz

Sopot Mundus Cantat Choir conducted by Joanna Szutowicz

Medical University of Gdańsk Choir led by Błażej Połom and Aleksandra Zawada

Incontro Choir conducted by Aleksandra Zawada

 

The choristers were also accompanied by Hubert Świątek on piano and Magdalena Maniewska on oboe.

 

Each ensemble brought its own character, sound, and experience to the concert. However, they were united by the same need: to meet in music and show that singing can truly build relationships between people.

From “For Ourselves and For You” to “Between Silence and Silence”

O!WACJE was a natural continuation of the project that, a year earlier, brought choirs together around the song “For Ourselves and For You” by Katarzyna Nosowska and Marcin Macuk. At that time, the main message was: “We can afford peace of mind.” The joint performance was meant to remind us of mental health, the need for balance, closeness, and mutual support. The project involved a diverse group of people: choristers associated with companies, universities, local communities, seniors, and individuals connected with the PARK ON Association, which supports people with Parkinson’s disease.

 

This year’s “Between Silence and Silence” developed the same idea, though in a different language. Because we live in a world full of stimuli, duties, information, and haste. We are always heading somewhere, responding to something, keeping an eye on something. Music allowed us to momentarily stop this rhythm. And that is precisely why the choice of Grzegorz Turnau’s song was not accidental. “Between Silence and Silence” sounded like a reminder that sometimes it’s worth slowing down, making space for breath, for one’s own emotions, and for the people standing next to us.

 

Let’s Listen Together!

Singing Together Works

The Olivia Centre Choir has shown for years that singing does not require a professional stage or a single shared history. Its members work daily in various companies and industries, meeting after hours because music connects them. During O!WACJE, this idea once again extended far beyond a single group. People of different ages, from various backgrounds, with diverse musical experience stood on one stage. Amateurs and professional musicians. Students, employees, Tricity residents. People who perhaps had never met before, but that evening sang in one rhythm. It is in such moments that it is best seen that a choir is not just a sum of voices. It is a community.

 

A Positive End to Summer

O!WACJE was a concert to bid farewell to summer, but instead of nostalgia, it brought above all the joy of being together. There were cheerful and more reflective pieces. There was an audience that listened, reacted, and, of course, sang. There was music prepared for many weeks and the satisfaction of the moment when all individual voices merged into one sound. A year earlier, the choirs wished themselves and others that we could afford peace of mind. This time, they reminded us that sometimes you just need to find your own place between silence and silence. And be there together.

Photo by Piotr Połoczański

Let’s recall the message “We can afford peace of mind”

 

Listen to the full performance of “We can afford peace of mind”

PÓŁNOCNY POMAGA Helps Again! 7.4 km for the Gdańsk Hospice. Join!

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

On October 3, Gdańsk will once again run to help. Ahead of us is the 9th PÓŁNOCNY POMAGA Charity Run. All proceeds from entry fees and donations will be allocated to the reconstruction of the Hospice of Father Eugeniusz Dutkiewicz SAC in Gdańsk.

 

The event is organized by Erste Bank Polska S.A. (formerly Santander Bank) and the Erste Bank Polska S.A. Ignacy Jan Paderewski Foundation. Olivia Centre once again supports this initiative, and just like in previous years, the run will start right here! Participants will set off from our resident’s headquarters at 11:00 AM. In other words, from NetWork Spot Erste Bank Polska at al. Grunwaldzka 472. The finish line will be at Plac Zebrań Ludowych, near the Oliwa Gate.

 

This is an event where the result takes a back seat. The distance of 7.4 km can be covered by running or power walking, at your own pace, and those who cannot be in Gdańsk can also join virtually, from anywhere in the world.

 

PÓŁNOCNY POMAGA is taking place for the ninth time. Since 2018, 12,979 people have participated, and a total of PLN 632,206 has been donated to the Hospice Foundation. Thanks to this support, it has been possible, among other things, to help build the Respite Care Centre and support the ongoing, vital activities of the Hospice of Father Eugeniusz Dutkiewicz SAC. This year, the common goal is to raise funds for the reconstruction of the hospice.

 

  • The run will take place on October 3, 2026.
  • The entry fee for adults is PLN 60.
  • Children and youth up to 18 years of age can participate free of charge.
  • Registration for the stationary run is open until September 30, and for the virtual run until October 2.

 

You don’t have to break records. You can run, walk, or join virtually. The common goal is the most important thing. Join the 9th PÓŁNOCNY POMAGA Charity Run and cover 7.4 km for the Gdańsk hospice!

 

Register and check run details

Learn more about the Hospice Foundation

Get to know the Hospice of Father Eugeniusz Dutkiewicz

 

Healthy October at Olivia Centre. Take care of yourself!

Posted on by Katarzyna Halicka

For years, October has been associated with Pinktober, the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, primarily reminding us of the importance of prevention and regular check-ups. At Olivia Centre, we want to look at health even more broadly. Therefore, on October 2nd, we invite you to Health Day, during which you will be able to benefit from preventive examinations, consultations with specialists, and advice on daily self-care and well-being, all in one place.

 

Mammobus – prevention that matters

One of the most important points of the program will be the mammobus, a mobile clinic equipped with mammography apparatus. This examination allows for the detection of alarming changes in the breasts, even when they do not yet show any symptoms.

Health Day will therefore be a good opportunity not to postpone prevention and to undergo the examination on-site at Olivia Centre. Advance registration is required for mammography.

Register for a mammobus examination

 

Blood tests and Oncopackage

A mobile clinic will also be available on-site, where you can undergo blood tests, including the specially prepared Oncopackage.

Regular laboratory tests are one of the basic elements of prevention. They can provide the doctor with information about the body’s functioning and indicate abnormalities requiring further diagnosis. Advance registration is also required here.

Register for tests

LUX MED specialists on-site

Health is not just about test results. During the event, you will also be able to talk to LUX MED experts representing several different areas of healthcare.

Participants will meet specialists from LUX MED Harmonia, dealing with mental health, representatives of LUX MED Hospital, and experts from LUX MED Stomatologia. This is an opportunity to talk, gain information, and ask questions about available forms of prevention and care.

 

Intestines, microbiota, and immunity

It is worth thinking about health holistically. Therefore, during Health Day, there will also be an OmniBiotic stand, dedicated to intestinal microflora and its importance for the proper functioning of the body.

Experts will explain how diet, lifestyle, and daily habits, among other factors, affect the microbiota and how to support it every day.

 

And after the examinations – a moment for yourself

Because health also means rest, balance, and good food. After the examinations and consultations, we invite you to the relaxation and gastronomy zone. A food truck will arrive at Parking C, and there will also be drinks and a space where you can slow down for a moment.

 

When: October 2nd, Friday
Where: Olivia Centre, Parking C
Who for: for Olivia Centre Residents and guests, women and men

 

October is a good time to remember what is easily postponed in the daily rush. On October 2nd, do something good for yourself and visit Health Day at Olivia Centre.

 

 


These aren’t all the attractions for the day; we’ll be adding more as we go!!