Bianka Zalewska is a lawyer by education and a reporter and volunteer by passion. She is a humanitarian and war reporter working for a large international TV station. She is also the author of reports and documentaries covering military operations around the world including Ukraine, Iraq and Syria, where she made a documentary about the Kurdish women fighting against ISIS. Since 2014, Bianka has been reporting war crimes from the front line in Ukraine. She has provided first aid during bombings and reported on the attacks in Donbass, where she was injured herself when the car she was in came under fire. After recovering from several broken bones, other health difficulties and facing threats, she returned to the front lines to continue reporting on the war. After the escalation in February 2022, she continues to report from Ukraine and to organize and deliver humanitarian aid. Bianka has been honored in Ukraine for her humanitarian efforts.

IVLP Impact Award Project: Journalists Don't Give into Propaganda/Disinformation

This project provided knowledge to 30 journalists on how to recognize propaganda and disinformation and counteract them, distinguish fake news from real news, raise people's awareness of the negative effects of disinformation and hate speech, and develop their critical thinking and information literacy. The activities included lectures, practical exercises, and discussion sessions. The program featured prominent speakers and experts from Poland and Ukraine, and was attended by journalists from all Polish media, including television, radio, internet, and press.

“After these workshops, I know how important it is not to give in to propaganda and how dangerous it is.” - Project Participant

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Bianka was a recipient of the International Women of Courage Award, organized by the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Center.

U.S. Communities Visited

Los Angeles, CA; Washington, DC; Dallas, TX

Country: Poland 

Click here to go back to the IVLP Impact Awards Main Page