If you watch Polish television on Canada’s OMNI channel then you’re already familiar with Anna Piszczkiewicz. She is the dynamic Co-Host and Reporter for the Polish-language arts and culture program Na Luzie (Laid Back). Ever week Anna brings viewers, across the country, interesting stories relating to community events as well as the people behind them. With a knack for staying on top of the cultural beat she profiles rising local artists, filmmakers and musicians.
We love her work and admire her great dedication.
And now, here’s the inside scoop into the professional life of…
Anna Piszczkiewicz
Education: Ryerson University
Profession: Broadcaster
Location: Toronto
Why did you choose to work in broadcasting? I came into broadcasting as a teenager, out of curiosity. And fell in love with it. It may sound sappy but it’s true.
What are you currently studying in school? I’m completing my masters in journalism at Ryerson.
How do you manage to balance work and school? I drink a lot of coffee. Preferably with a friend with whom I can go on and on about the inane but oh-so-important stuff. Also: a good breakfast, dancing in the kitchen and a daily to-do list.
What direction would you like your career to go in? I’m always open to new opportunities but long form journalism is the Holy Grail.
What are you working on now? I’m co-host/reporter for the Polish-language arts and culture program Na Luzie at OMNI TV.
What drives you in your work? Telling a good story.
What’s the most exciting thing about working on the show? Always meeting new people who are pursuing something they’re passionate about. It’s a privilege to get access to their lives and exciting to share what I’ve learned with the audience.
My interviews are on arts and culture so they aren’t necessarily things you need to know but ideas about living that, I hope, both inform and inspire.
What are your future plans? (not necessarily work related) I have never regretted spending money on travel so I’m always looking to remedy my wanderlust.
Who were your mentors growing up/who are your mentors now? I’ve always been fascinated by director Krzysztof Kieslowski — traditional cinema that’s innovative all at once. I read in an interview that he left documentary work behind for feature films, in part, because the closer he tried to get to someone, he drove that someone away. Perfectly natural, of course. The most sincere moment he was after disappeared as soon as the camera turned on. It’s idealistic, but I’m chasing after capturing that moment.
Do you have a motto that you live/work by? The Golden Rule (do unto others as you would have them do unto you) is a good principle to keep in mind at work and play.
What was the best career advice you’ve ever received? It’s often not the best writers that become successful at their craft but the ones that don’t give up and keep at it. My university writing prof said some version of that to a class. The sentiment still rings true.
What little things in life do you enjoy the most? A good cup of coffee, a game of Scrabble as well as wild blueberries, sour cream and sugar mashed together.
Favourite TV Show: How about a small sampling? I feed my vampire craze with: True Blood. Laugh with: How I Met Your Mother. Dream with: Departures. Admire from across the pond: Top Gear.
Favourite Band or Musical Performer: A few that have been getting regular play recently: KT Tunstall, Hey, Hybrid, incarNations, and Paula i Karol.
What does being Polish mean to you? Having a double identity but not the fancy spy kind. It’s more about being on the outside looking in. Knowing the culture without necessarily living it in (we left when I was three and a half). It’s a fascinating place to be.
Why are your Polish roots important to you? They mean a different worldview, a set of priorities and I can read some fantastic literature in its original language.
Warszawa or Krakow? Someone once said that the best place in Warszawa is the train headed to Krakow. I kid 😉 I choose Krakow. It’s my hometown.
Website or Contact: I’m @katania on Twitter. This is where non-serious stuff goes like me sharing that I have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear. (Like you can’t relate).
Cool post & series! Can’t wait for more profiles.
[…] By Anna Piszczkiewicz […]
[…] per usual we chatted with host Anna Piszczkiewicz about cultural happenings in the city as well as about the cool achievements of up and […]
W programie Na ludzie odnosi sie wrazenie, ze jest Pani przytloczona przez Ade Mlostek 😦
Ania chce zlapac kontakt ale tel jest busy. Marzena z mississauga