structural development

 Hello Ivana, you came to Görlitz from far away to work with the ENO on the development of the district. What have you done before?

Hello everyone! My name is Ivana and I'm from Skopje, North Macedonia.

I completed my bachelor's degree in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health and Wellbeing in 2019. For me, these everyday issues that affect us humans are of the utmost importance. During my studies I took part in a program called Work and Travel. The program offers students to visit the USA, spend some time there and learn about the culture and lifestyle there. Everything was very different from what I had known from my home country. I have traveled to the States three years in a row and I can say that I felt reborn every time I returned home. My way of thinking became more and more open and my perspective on life was greatly expanded. I recommend everyone to go and live abroad at least for a while. This will be a life changing experience I can assure you!

How did you come to Görlitz and the ENO?

Via the small detour: Malta. After the US, I wanted to gain more experience abroad, so I moved to Malta, where I met Saskia Brosius, who is now my colleague on the ENO innovation team. When she went back to Görlitz we stayed in touch and now have the chance to work together. I am happy to be here now and to meet so many brilliant, highly educated and committed people and to work with them on the structural changes. The region offers so many opportunities!

What is your first impression of Görlitz?

I've been here for two weeks and already fell in love with the city! It never ceases to amaze me with its beautiful, well-preserved architectural gems. As soon as I step out of the apartment, no matter where I walk - the city is just charming. No wonder Hollywood shoots so many movies here. Görlitz is great the way it is, but still has so much potential! It is good that the region is being made more welcoming and attractive to young people and that investments are being made in educational and research institutions.

What do you like best about the district, what do you think is still missing?

I know that a new university is already being opened in Weißwasser - what a big step for the future of the district! I would love to see more music and art festivals in the future. Everyone likes good entertainment! Furthermore, I have no doubt that the ENO team will continue to do their best to develop innovative projects together with the residents. These projects will make a significant difference in the quality of life of the citizens of this region. I'm more than happy to be part of this team and to contribute as much as possible to this original and exciting process that's taking place!  

The main square in Skopje, Ivana's hometown. The North Macedonians also had to go through a change at the beginning of the 1990s: they went from being a constituent republic of socialist Yugoslavia to state independence.

How is Görlitz different from your home town of Skopje in North Macedonia?

From my point of view, every single place on our planet has its beauties for those who are willing to see them. There is history behind every place and Macedonia, like Görlitz, has a lot to offer in that direction. Well-preserved churches from past centuries, old fortresses and a lot of well-preserved cultural heritage are just a few things they have in common. But I'm really looking forward to discovering the district of Görlitz further.

And we look forward to welcoming you to the ENO team - welcome, dear Ivana!

Best regards

Your Jasna