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Tangled up in roots
In light of Trump’s recent attempt to end birthright citizenship in America, I wanted to share a piece I wrote for last year’s [fjúžn] magazine. The theme of this edition was “roots.” I shared my thoughts on identity, culture, nationality, and citizenship law. Below is the English version, but if you would like to read…
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From Ukraine with love: Olesya Tsybulko
Olesya Tsybulko’s story unfolds against the backdrop of war-torn Donetsk, Ukraine. Fleeing the conflict in 2014, Olesya, along with her son, embarked on a journey to Slovakia. In this interview, she shares her experiences of displacement, integration, and dreams for the future. Growing up in Donetsk, Olesya enjoyed the coziness of her city. However, the…
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The Next Generation: Claudia Alner
Claudia Alner’s life weaves a captivating blend of Vietnamese heritage and Slovak culture, reflecting her unique journey from childhood in Slovakia to her multifaceted adulthood. Cultural Fusion in Early Years Raised in Slovakia by Vietnamese parents, Claudia’s formative years embody the seamless blend of two distinct cultures, exploring the challenges and joys of growing up…
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Introducing John Boyd
John Boyd’s life is a reflection of his remarkable journey of self-discovery and impact. Originally from Glasgow, Scotland, he moved to Slovakia over three decades ago. His early years in the populous housing district of Castlemount were marked by the challenges of gang warfare, instilling in him a sense of resilience. Challenges and Lessons His…
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The Next Generation: Gigi Ann Green
Gigi Green’s musical odyssey unfolds against the backdrop of a multicultural upbringing in Bratislava, Slovakia, where her British roots intertwine with Slovak heritage. This episode of Na Slovensku Aj Po Anglicky delves into the complexities of identity, language, and artistic expression. A Harmonious Upbringing Born in Bratislava to a British father and Slovak mother, Gigi’s…
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Introducing Sharon Sen
Sharon, originally from the small town of Kulai, Malaysia, shares her transformative journey from her close-knit hometown to settling in Slovakia. Her narrative offers a poignant insight into the challenges and triumphs of adapting to a new culture, language, and family dynamics. A Reluctant Scholar: Growing up in Kulai, Sharon found the confines of formal…
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On Becoming Slovak, Part Two: Richard Swales
In this second part of our episode on citizenship, we are speaking with Richard Swales, a British expatriate whose life took an unexpected turn when he decided to make Slovakia his home over two decades ago. Richard’s story is a testament to the transformative power of cultural immersion and the profound impact of acquiring Slovak…
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On Becoming Slovak, Part One: James Stevko
In this first part of a two-part episode, we are discussing Slovak citizenship with American dancer James Stevko. Growing up in America, James mistakenly believed that his great grandfather had emigrated from Czechia. It wasn’t until a chance discovery in some family records that Stevko learned of his Slovak ancestry. This sent him down a…
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I’m Listening
Right now, I am preparing for the second season of the show, and I would love to hear what you think. If you would like to share an interesting story about your life as a foreigner in Slovakia, or you want to leave any feedback, please let me know in the form below. Thank you…
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Should I stay, or should I go?
So far in this series we have discussed the many challenges migrants face when they decide to leave home and take a chance on settling in Slovakia. For most of these migrants, integration into Slovak society is their goal. However, successful integration is neither guaranteed nor complete. In fact, many of these transplants feel rejected…
Na Slovensku Aj Po Anglicky 