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On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the Polymer Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS) hosted the fourth annual Global Women’s Breakfast for its female colleagues. The event was marked by inspiration, support, and a celebration of women’s achievements in science and beyond. It brought together members of the scientific community in a warm and open atmosphere, where discussions extended beyond research to topics such as courage, perseverance, and overcoming personal and professional challenges.

The event was opened by Mgr. Zuzana Kroneková, PhD., who welcomed the participants with heartfelt remarks and paid tribute to the late Ing. Mária Omastová, DrSc., founder of this initiative. She also welcomed the distinguished guests: MVDr. Daniela Antolová, DrSc., Vice-President of the Slovak Academy of Sciences for the 2nd Department of Sciences, and RNDr. Dana Jurkovičová, DrSc., Member of the SAS Presidium. The floor was then given to Ing. Igor Lacík, DrSc., a colleague from the Institute and Chairman of the IUPAC Polymer Division. He presented his activities as Division Chair and outlined the key priorities and strategic goals the Division plans to pursue within IUPAC in the coming years. He also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to attend the event in person and for its organisation at the Polymer Institute SAS.

Among the distinguished guests was RNDr. Lenka Lorencová, PhD., laureate of the L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science Slovakia 2025 award. In conversation with the organisers, she shared her journey into science, her professional achievements, and what continues to inspire and motivate her in her work. She noted that she had not encountered major gender-based obstacles during her career, attributing this to a supportive working environment and colleagues who were not only excellent scientists but also generous mentors. She emphasised the importance of collaboration and the courage to pursue one’s vision. Her story demonstrated that outstanding science is built on perseverance, passion, and an environment that values talent beyond gender stereotypes.

A special guest from Edinburgh joined the event—MRes. Lucia Janičová, the first Slovak woman to climb Mount Everest. Her account of the demanding expedition, physical and mental endurance, and the power of determination offered a powerful metaphor: just as climbing Everest requires discipline, teamwork, and self-belief, so too does building a scientific career. Her experience reminded participants that many limits exist primarily in our minds—and that it is up to us to challenge them.

The discussion following the presentations was lively and engaging. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions about experiences in both the scientific environment and the extreme conditions of high-altitude expeditions. Topics included work–life balance, building an international career, mentoring, and the importance of supporting young talent. The discussion was thoughtfully summarised at the close of the event by Mgr. Zuzana Benková, Deputy Director for Science at the Polymer Institute.

The Global Women’s Breakfast once again confirmed its importance as a platform connecting female scientists, students, and colleagues across generations. It created space for sharing experiences, strengthening community ties, and reinforcing the awareness that women play an irreplaceable role in science.

The gathering at the Polymer Institute was about more than breakfast—it was about inspiration, courage, and the reminder that whether in the laboratory or at the top of the world, every journey toward success begins with the determination to take the first step.

Text: Silvia Podhradská and Zuzana Kroneková, Polymer Institute SAS

Photo: Martin Bystriansky