Kiska: Women Are Bearers of Values Strongly Needed in Slovakia

Bratislava, June 5 (TASR) – When we speak about the state of our society, we need to tell the truth with love without spreading hatred, and in order to achieve that, it’s important to listen to the voice of women, stated President Andrej Kiska after meeting the nominees for the 2017 Slovak Woman of the Year awards on Monday.

According to Kiska, women are the bearers of values. “They symbolise love, understanding, compassion, empathy and the will to forgive,” said the president. “Especially at this time, when Slovakia is facing many issues and challenges, when it’s struggling for the nature and heart of the country, the voice of women needs to be heard,” he added.

Kiska further welcomed the fact that the number of successful women in various social and scientific fields in Slovakia is increasing. He added that each such successful story should be promoted across the country. “Because it’s necessary to appreciate the fact that despite many other responsibilities in the family, women are often head and shoulders above men at work,” said Kiska.

This year’s winner of the 2017 Absolute Slovak Woman of the Year award, scientist Barbara Ukropcova, believes that the successful stories of the winners and nominees in each category will serve as an inspiration for other women trying to harmonise their careers with family lives. “I believe that the success stories as well as   the reasons for the nominations for the Slovak Woman of the Year awards will rise in the next years,” said Ukropcova in her speech, adding that it will also depend on how society supports women’s efforts to pursue their careers.

The winners of the ninth Slovak Woman of the Year awards were announced at a gala evening in Bratislava on Sunday (June 4). As many as 27 successful Slovak women were nominated in eight categories.

In addition to the Absolute Slovak Woman of the Year award, scientist at the Slovak Academy of Sciences Ukropcova also won the science and research award.

The Art and Culture award went to actress Zuzana Maurery, while the Media and Communications award went to TV Markiza presenter Zlatica Svajdova Puskarova.

As for the Education and Support for Young Talents category, the award went to Lucia Kurilovska, rector of the Academy of the Police Force in Bratislava, being the first woman to hold this post.

The Business and Management award went to wine grower Maria Macikova for her dedication in promoting the wine brand Tokaj in Slovakia. Former prime minister Iveta Radicova (2010-12) received a special award.