We are delighted to announce that Aneta Książek, Head of the Poland Convention Bureau at the Polish Tourism Organisation (POT), and Elżbieta Lendo, President of Polish Independent Hotels, are among the co-authors of the book “Ensemble: From Solo to Symphony”. The publication was launched on 8 March 2025, coinciding with International Women’s Day, at the prestigious SXSW event in Austin. This book is a global manifesto of female leadership, sisterhood, and transformation, featuring 139 remarkable stories of women from around the world.
“Ensemble: From Solo to Symphony” is an almost 600-page celebration of women who, while outstanding soloists in their respective fields, come together to create a powerful and influential symphony. The book shares stories of women from 21 different industries and countries, who, through determination, innovation, and resilience, are helping to reshape the world.
A press conference and meeting with the authors took place during SXSW 2025, held in Austin, Texas, from 7–15 March. The event, which attracted over 70,000 participants from around the globe, is one of the world’s leading festivals at the intersection of technology, music, film, and culture. Alongside the US launch, a press conference and meeting with the Brazilian authors was also held on 8 March in São Paulo.
Aneta Książek
Aneta Książek has been closely associated with the Polish Tourism Organisation and its Poland Convention Bureau since 2008. In her chapter, she shares insights from her work within the organisation and highlights how Poland has evolved into a dynamic player on the international MICE stage.
Aneta Książek has been closely associated with the Polish Tourism Organisation and its Poland Convention Bureau since 2008. In her chapter, she shares insights from her work within the organisation and highlights how Poland has evolved into a dynamic player on the international MICE stage.
“I see every crisis we’ve been through as an opportunity for innovation and growth,” she says.
It is precisely this mindset—combined with the support and engagement of the Polish MICE industry—that is transforming perceptions and strengthening Poland’s position as a leader in the Central European meetings industry.
I was invited to take part in Ensemble: From Solo to Symphony by Natasha de Caiado Castro, a renowned Brazilian authority in the meetings industry and founder and CEO of Wish International, an event company operating across three continents. Natasha also co-founded and chairs the jury for the Rise and Raise Others Award by UN Women, which recognises exceptional women for their efforts and passion in supporting others in achieving the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. My involvement as a juror in 2022, followed by the invitation in late 2024 to contribute to this extraordinary book, has been not only an opportunity to promote Poland but also to showcase the role of tourism among the 21 industries represented. This book brings together brilliant scientists, journalists, CEOs – a true orchestra of women from across the globe! Being part of such an inspiring collective is a tremendous honour and a source of motivation to continue working for our country and our industry. I dedicate my chapter to my beloved parents, friends, and colleagues in the meetings sector who have accompanied me throughout my 25+ year journey. Thank you!” Aneta Książek, Head of Poland Convention Bureau.
Elżbieta Lendo
The second Polish contributor to the book is Elżbieta Lendo, a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry who has spent more than 30 years passionately building Poland’s strong position on the international tourism map. A courageous leader, Elżbieta has not only managed hotels but also helped break the male dominance in the industry, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, but about learning to dance in the rain,” is her guiding motto—perfectly capturing her professional outlook.
In her chapter, she shares how to overcome challenges and turn crises into opportunities for growth. Her leadership is about more than just making tough decisions—it’s about building supportive, cohesive teams. Her most incredible pride lies in seeing people around her unlock their potential and achieve success.
From Solo to Symphony” has been published in Portuguese and English, and the English edition is available on Amazon. The book is a philanthropic project, with all proceeds going to Casa do Caminho, an NGO that has already supported more than 2,000 children in South America.
Wyświetl ten post na Instagramie
More information about the book is available here: https://www.amazon.com/Ensemble-Symphony-American-Diversas-Autoras/dp/6588641931
Wyświetl ten post na Instagramie
