Taste of Poland - Director's Statement 2021

I wanted to make this documentary because I wanted to share my culture. The Polish culture is something that I have grown up with my whole life: Polish festivals, events and feasts; even Polish scouts and dancing! My love for my heritage is what made me reach out to Ania at The Polish Place, knowing her and her restaurant are the embodiment of Poland. Yet, after working on this production, meeting Ania and her family on a personal level, learning about the values and the importance of The Polish Place, this documentary was a lot more than culture. It became something bigger. Inspired by their devastating experiences and family love, I wanted this film to be about their journey, their family values, and everything they have done, not just for the Polish community and culture, but for Australia.

To me personally, family is everything; we are always there for each other in the best of times and in the darkest. But because of my love for this art, it has always been a challenge to choose between my dream and my family; and I know that this is a test that many dreamers face with their loved ones. Ania’s story is something everyone can relate to, be inspired by, but also learn from; that it is important to have and to follow your passion and your dream but to remember that the people in your life that love you will always be there for you, so you must always be there for them.

The making of this film faced many challenges, especially with weather and Covid-19. But our crew pulled through and worked hard together in the time that we had to put together a documentary we are all proud of. I want to thank our hard-working crew, but also Ania and her family for their extreme generosity, warmth and continuous support throughout the production – a true reflection of the culture of Poland.