About Us | Fundacja Candela

Our story

Originated from a community effort

The Candela Foundation was established in February 2021 following a successful crowdfunding campaign. Initiated by a team of young scientists, the idea of establishing an association evolved over time into a well-established organization serving the entire optics and photonics community in Poland.

Our activities all originate from the principles of self-organizing and participation in events which carry great significance for the scientific society of Poland. We are convinced that by cooperation we will multiply the effect of individual initiatives and achieve a breakthrough in the working process and perception of the optical and photonic science and technology.

What we stand for

Our values in detail

The underlying principles that govern every decision we make and every action we take.

Transparency

We publish our financial and factual statements, resolutions, as well as detailed financial reports outlining our income and expenses. We believe it is essential to remain accountable and transparent to our community, partners, and supporters. These financial statements are readily accessible to everyone.

Inclusiveness of actions

We uphold the values of diversity, openness, and non-discrimination in all that we do. Our activities are structured in such a way that all members of the community have equal opportunity to participate, irrespective of their race, gender, ethnic group, or career level. We take concrete steps to eliminate obstacles to participation.

Flexible support

Due to our flexible organizational structure, we have the ability to adapt to the changing requirements of the optics and photonics industry. We do not have any rigid processes that would confine us to particular methods and enable us to adapt to new situations.

Support for young

Our team consists of young people who have first-hand knowledge of the current state of optics and photonics in Poland. We understand the challenges faced by young scientists and students, and we strive to implement initiatives that support their professional development.

How we work

Three pillars of activities

Our mission is accomplished through three different emphases.

Events

Our organization is dedicated to conducting meetings such as conferences, workshops, summer schools, training events, and webinars for the optics and photonics community.

Support programs

Funding is available to attract international experts, we support student exchange programs, and we work to bring science to new groups of people across Poland.

Communication

We offer national communication networks and a Polish language newsletter focused on optics and photonics..

How we are funded

Sources of finance

Our funding system is transparent and diversified, allowing us to remain independent and sustainable.

Donations

Generous contributions from individuals and institutions. All contributions will be used only for scholarships and community work unless stated differently by the donor.

Paid public benefit activities

Income derived from arranging conferences and other pay-per-public-benefit activities. This may include money earned from registrations and event services.

Business activities

Business revenue will cover our operational expenses, allowing donations to be used exclusively for scholarships and other social initiatives.

Our financial principle: Income from the business takes care of our operational costs, and all the donations will be channeled to providing scholarships and community activities – unless stated otherwise by the donor.

Our leadership

Foundation board

Our co-founders who provide vision and supervision for all activities.

Piotr Węgrzyn

President, Co-Founder

Mihai Suster

Vice-President, Co-Founder

Adam Wiadomski