Jurek Owsiak is Knight of the Order of Smile

All candidates for the medal must be nominated by children, and nominations can be submitted by from all over the world. Jurek Owsiak received the medal in recognition of his life-long commitment to the improvement of conditions of Polish paediatric wards. The chairman of the board of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity Foundation is also a staunch supporter of children's rights, and he has often taken a stand against violence towards children. International Chapter of the Order of the Smile decided to honour Jurek Owsiak with the medal at the celebratory gala, which took place on May 18th, 2018 in Lipsk. 

Order of the Smile can only be awarded to persons who have made considerable contributions to improving the lives of children in Poland and across the world or people who support children's rights and show love, care, and respect towards children. Marek Michalak, who is the Chancellor of the Chapter of the Order of the Smile said that Jurek Owsiak was nominated by thousands of children, who have sent his candidature for  Chapter's consideration. The founder of the GOCC Foundation joins other laureates, such as Pope John Paul II, Mother Theresa, Dalai Lama, Irena Sendlerowa.