"I love Belarus" Awards are given for the promotion of Belarusian culture and language, the development of national identity and the introduction of new, interesting ideas in the areas of culture, politics and journalism.The ceremony takes place every year around Valentine's Day. It is organised by the Belarusian oppositional organization Young Front.
Sadly, this year's award "Fighter of the Year" came as usual to Belarusian political prisoners. Alexander Lukashenko still keeps a number of politicians, activists, human rights defenders in penal colonies.
In the category of "Belorusisation" the award was given to Kaciaryna Kibalchich. The journalist is the author of the well-know film "Belarusian Dream". She is also an organizer of the Belarusian language courses in Moscow, under the name "Mowa ci kawa”.
The "Pro-Belarus" category winner is the former ambassador of Sweden in Minsk, Stefan Eriksson. The diplomat, who had been forced to leave Minsk by Belarusian authorities, participated in the ceremony via Skype. Eriksson speaks fluently Belarusian and still keeps in touch with Belarussian opposition.
The award in category "Journalism" went to Andrzej Poczobut, correspondent of "Gazeta Wyborcza" in Grodno, an activist of the Polish minority in Belarus. Andrzej Poczobut spent many months in jail because of his work as journalist. Currently, the new investigation against Poczobut takes place. He is accused of “defaming” Lukashenko.
In category "Politics”, the winner is Vital Karatysz. "Music" award went to Saligorsk beatbox artist, Senia Shane.
.
"Sport" category winner is Aleksandra Gerasimenia. The famous swimmer, Olympic gold medalist is in favor of Belarusian identity, Belarusian language and culture. She declares her warm feelings for oppositional. independent white-red-white flag.
In the category of "Civic Activity" the winner is Dzianis Kandratowicz,the creator of the "It makes sense" initiative ("Мае сэнс"). It assumes the benefactors pay for their meetings with famous people, and the money is given to charity.
svaboda.org/agkm
Informacje o Białorusi: Raport Białoruś
In English: Information about Belarus >>>
