Czechast with Jakub Ferenčík: The individual as prime mover of Czechoslovak democracy

Jakub may be young, yet, he has a lived experience that spans cultures and borders: Slovak, Canadian, Spanish, Polish, British, and Czech.

Jakub has a fascinating personal background that gives him a unique perspective on Central Europe:

“I was brought up from two to nine years old in Canada and then I went back to Slovakia. So I felt like a little bit of an outsider coming back to Slovakia even though I was born there.”

Now based in Prague, Jakub finds himself drawn to the deep historical and cultural layers of this region:

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“I just love Prague; I love this intersection between Prague, Vienna, Budapest and Krakow and Lviv, this part of Europe, Central European history. So, I just enjoy being here as is.”

You can also look forward to a recommendation of a book for anyone who wants to start understanding the complexities of Czech and Slovak recent history:

“A great start would be Czechoslovakia: The State That Failed by Mary Heimann. A fantastic book. It serves as an introduction to Czechoslovak society. It doesn't hold back in criticism, which I think is really good.”

As the saying goes: "The young shall grow". So, it’s important to listen to young people like Jakub – people who bring a lived experience that spans cultures and borders, and who care deeply about the history and the future of Central Europe. Whether you’re interested in Czech and Slovak democracy, the Central European identity, or just want to hear from a thoughtful young broadcaster finding his voice, stay with me for this conversation with Jakub Ferenčík.