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Tomasz Jagiełło of Helios to Receive 2025 UNIC Achievement Award


BRUSSELS, NEW YORK – 13 MARCH 2025: Tomasz Jagiełło, founder and Managing Director of Helios, one of Poland’s leading cinema operators, has today been named the recipient of the 2025 UNIC Achievement Award. The award recognises outstanding dedication and contribution to the European cinema exhibition sector and will be formally presented by the International Union of Cinemas (UNIC) during the CineEurope Awards Ceremony on Thursday 19 June 2025, at the Centre de Convencions Internacional de Barcelona (CCIB) in Barcelona, Spain.

With over 30 years of experience in the film industry, Tomasz has been a driving force in shaping Poland’s cinema landscape. Under his leadership, Helios has grown to 54 locations across the country. His innovative approach has not only strengthened Helios’ position as a market leader but has also significantly contributed to the growth of the Polish film industry.

In addition to his work with Helios, Tomasz founded Next Film, supporting film production and distribution, further demonstrating his commitment to the industry. His influence extends beyond Poland, as he actively contributes to the development of European cinema through his role as Vice President of UNIC and representative of the Polish New Cinema Association on the UNIC Board.

Tomasz’s unwavering dedication to cinema has been widely recognised, and his efforts have fostered collaboration and innovation across the sector. His leadership continues to inspire and drive the industry forward, making him a deserving recipient of this year’s UNIC Achievement Award.

Welcoming this announcement, Phil Clapp, President of UNIC, commented:

We are delighted to honour Tomasz Jagiełło with the 2025 UNIC Achievement Award. His remarkable career and tireless commitment to the cinema industry have had a lasting impact, both in Poland and across Europe. Tomasz’s leadership at Helios and his contributions to the broader film ecosystem reflect the spirit of this award, and as I am sure he will remind me, he’s in truth only just getting started!

On behalf of the UNIC Board and colleagues across the industry, I extend our warmest congratulations to Tomasz on this well-deserved recognition.

Receiving news of the award, Tomasz commented:

"I am deeply honoured to receive the UNIC Achievement Award. This recognition is a testament not only to the incredible team at Helios and the work we’ve accomplished together but also to the power of cinema in uniting people and inspiring change. Cinema has always been a passion of mine, and I am proud to be part of an industry that continues to evolve. I remain committed to fostering innovation and collaboration across Europe to ensure that cinema remains a vibrant and essential part of our culture."

About CineEurope

CineEurope 2025 will take place from 16-19 June at the Centre Convencions Internacional Barcelona (CCIB) in Barcelona, Spain. CineEurope is the longest-running and most successful European convention and trade show for major, regional, and independent cinema professionals. CineEurope will feature exclusive screenings and product presentations of upcoming films, sponsored events, timely and informative seminars and the CineEurope Trade Show. CineEurope is the Official Convention of the Union Internationale des Cinémas/International Union of Cinemas (UNIC).

About UNIC

The Union Internationale des Cinémas/International Union of Cinemas (UNIC) represents the interests of cinema trade associations and cinema operators covering 39 countries in Europe and neighbouring regions.

About Film Expo Group

The Film Expo Group is the premier organizer of events in the motion picture industry. The Film Expo Group produces CineEurope, held in Barcelona; ShowEast, held in Miami; and CineAsia, held in Bangkok.

Further enquiries

lgaltier@unic-cinemas.org | +32 484 183910 | #CineEurope | @film expo group

Full Press Release


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