Poland Gold Cross Medal of Merit Award

Sydney, 25th January 2022

I was honoured by be awarded the Gold Cross of Merit of the Republic of Poland, by the President of Poland. The Award was presented to me by Her Excellency Dr Monika Kończyk, Consul General of the Republic of Poland at an event at the Sofitel Sydney on 25th January 2022. As former Polish Honorary Consul General to Timor-Leste, I received the award in recognition for work carried out during my role.

I was also pleased to have the opportunity that evening to launch my autobiography, A Strong Heart, which tells the story of my family and how I built my businesses in Australia and Timor-Leste.

I was overwhelmed by the honour of also receiving words of thanks and congratulations from several people, including Elders of Timor-Leste. You may listen to all the speeches on my YouTube channel. This includes speeches by:

H.E. Xanana Gusmão, President (2002-2007) and Prime Minister (2007-2015) of Timor-Leste.

H.E. José Ramos-Horta AC, Nobel Laureate (1996), Prime Minister (2006-2007) and President (2007-2012) of Timor-Leste.

H.E. Mari Alkatiri, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste (2002-2006, 2017-2018). Read the letter.

I was also honoured by words from Shane Stone AC, QC, Chief Minister, Northern Territory Australia (1995-1999), my dear friend and mentor, Mujahid Hamid., and my eldest brother, Waris Awan.