Beginnings in NYC Vol. 2
Slovak PRO presents: Beginnings in NYC
An evening of stories, connections, and fresh starts in the Big Apple
New York has always been a city where new paths begin. People come here to explore possibilities, challenge themselves, and discover who they can become.
Beginnings in NYC brings together Slovak professionals, creatives, and friends of our community to share experiences of starting out in New York — what it means to arrive, to build, to leave, and sometimes to return.
The evening will feature personal stories, practical insights, and candid reflections from Slovaks whose journeys in New York continue to shape their lives and careers.
Alongside the program, you’ll have the chance to meet fellow professionals, enjoy light refreshments, and connect with others navigating new chapters in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
The program will also include a special musical performance by the Martin Valihora Trio.
Featured Speakers
Luka Brase
Luka is a Slovak visual artist whose work has taken him across Europe, Asia, and the United States. With more than 30 solo exhibitions worldwide, his work is characterized by photographic observation and idiomatic drawing gestures that capture the volatility of a moment. Luka will open his new exhibition at the Slovak Consulate General in New York, which will be on display for several weeks, and he will share what drives his creative path in the city.
Martin Valihora
Martin is a world-renowned Slovak drummer and percussionist based in New York. After receiving a scholarship to Berklee College of Music, he became part of the city’s vibrant jazz scene and continues to collaborate with leading artists across the world. He is the creator of the Oneness Festival — a concert series that brings Slovak talent together with American jazz greats on iconic New York stages, including Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall. During the evening, Martin will share his New York story and perform with the Martin Valihora Trio.
Lenka Cicatková
Lenka is a chief stewardess on luxury yachts who has spent her career traveling the world and working with the rich and famous. Now beginning a new chapter in New York, she will share what life and work at sea really look like — the adventure, the responsibility, and the unexpected moments that come from a career that spans continents.
Moderator: Yvonne Zuffova
Yvonne recently began her journey in New York, having moved here just a few months ago to start her role in world of technology and engineering at Rockport Group. She will guide the evening’s conversations and share her own perspective on what it feels like to build a new beginning in the city.
Program
6:00 PM
Welcome and networking
6:30 PM
Stories of New York Beginnings — Speaker talks and conversation
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Networking reception + live performance by the Martin Valihora Trio. A chance to connect with Slovak professionals and friends of our community
RSVP
RSVP is required as space is limited.
A contribution of $20 serves as your RSVP in the form of a donation to Slovak PRO Inc. to support our Slovak professional community in New York and across North America.