What do you like about Europe?
Especially for the Central European countries such as Slovakia Europe and the European Union plays a very important role. It is a peace project, fosters economic growth and stands for freedom. Freedom of movement for example enables us to travel much easily, study and work in any other EU countries. Europe is also about people and their diversity.

What did your country gave to Europe (music, literature, theatre, politics…)?
Slovak culture is very diverse and consists of colorful traditions, customs, folklore, gothic churches, medieval towns and majestic mountains. Living in Bratislava (Slovakia) and Vienna (Austria), the closest capitals in Europe, I see how much these cities influenced each other through their common history and how different they are at the same time. Did you know that the roots of Andy Warhol, the most known pop-up artist who also influenced European culture, are Slovak? His original name was Andrej Varhola.

What did Europe gave to your country (generals, kings & queens, artists, concepts)?
Slovakia has always been a part of Europe, even though the history of the Slovak state is very new (creation of Czechoslovakia in 1918, establishment of Slovakia 1993). Europe means democracy and being stronger thanks to unity. The European Union has brought many economic advantages and economic growth. It means freedom of opinion and peace.

In result of your time at JCI: What did you love about JCI?
JCI feels like a big family. We are all different but have common values. It is a great opportunity to build up a worldwide network, learn many new countries, acquire leadership skills, work on personal development, get many projects done, support start ups and close many wonderful friendships for life. JCI is about the people that make the organization alive.

What do you love about the Senate?
As I am a new Senator, there is still so much to learn about the Senate. But what I can definitely say is, that Senators have always been here for me as mentors who know the JCI organization well, always ready to help and give a good piece of advice. And I also appreciate that as senator you can stay active beyond the JCI age. In my opinion it is very important to preserve the experience and pass it to younger members.

What is your vision for Europe in 2044, the 75th anniversary of the European Senate?
I believe in the Federal State of Europe and I hope that there will be even closer economic but also a political cooperation. That Europe will stay a strong player in the international context. I hope that Europe will have even more member states than today (with UK being back again 😊), sharing common values like democracy, freedom, tolerance. My wish is that JCI continuous to play a leading role in the society and community in Europe and also worldwide.

What is the action you take to make that vision happen?
I would like to stay active within the Senate, be here for JCI Slovakia and JCI members. Furthermore, I would like to support and promote the growth of the Senate especially within the CEE region where there are still too few senators as compared to other parts of Europe. And of course, motivate people around me to become a JCI member!