After the opening remarks by Pavel Fara, BCC Managing Director, Markéta Pekarová Adamová shared insights from her journey in top-level public service, reflecting on responsibility, decision-making, and leadership under pressure. She also spoke openly about her decision to leave politics, emphasizing that public service should never be about holding onto power. She noted that it takes courage to leave the office rather than simply sticking to the chair.

Her story also offered an inspiring message: even someone from a very modest background can succeed professionally. She highlighted how opportunities such as accessible education and an increasingly inclusive environment allow individuals to contribute and reach positions of leadership.

The conversation also touched on democratic values, political culture, and the importance of trust, integrity, and accountability in public life.

Thank you to Markéta Pekarová Adamová and everyone who joined us for this inspiring discussion.

The post BCC Talk with Markéta Pekarová Adamová appeared first on Equilibrium.

One of the most rewarding parts of the programme is seeing how mentees continue to grow, challenge themselves, and make meaningful progress in their fields. Across our community, we see women advancing in many different ways, from research and innovation, to corporate leadership, to senior executive roles.

Today, we’re highlighting three mentees who recently shared exciting milestones from their journeys:

🌸 Simona Šandalová, a PhD researcher in radioactive waste management, is actively contributing to the nuclear energy community, from research and international conferences to leadership within the EURAD-2 Young Generation. Through mentoring, and collaboration with a mentor with expertise in PR, she is learning how to better communicate and popularise complex topics in nuclear energy, expanding her professional network and inspiring the next generation of women in STEM.

🌻 Jana Zelinkova, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors at Generali penzijní společnost, recently reflected on her first year leading the company, navigating new challenges and strategic decisions at the highest level. Through mentoring, she continues to strengthen her strategic thinking and “out-of-the-box” leadership perspective. Career transitions, such as stepping into a C-level role, can greatly benefit from mentoring and from having a dedicated space to reflect on complex decisions beyond one’s immediate professional circle.

🌷 Lucie Brožová, recently promoted to Senior Product Manager at L’Oréal Professionnel CZSKHU HUB, continues to develop the Coloration business across the region. Through mentoring, she is building her leadership perspective and preparing for the next steps in her career, drawing inspiration from her mentor’s leadership approach focused on helping people grow and unlock their potential, as well as leading teams across international markets and cultures.

Their journeys remind us that progress takes many forms, whether advancing science, growing a career, or leading an organisation.

While today we’re spotlighting just a few examples, we are incredibly proud of every mentor and mentee who is part of the Equilibrium community. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping create a space where women can grow, connect, and lead.

If you’ve had a mentoring moment, milestone, or achievement you’re proud of, share it and tag us, we’d love to celebrate it with you.

Happy International Women’s Day. 💜

The post Equilibrium Celebrates International Women’s Day 2026 appeared first on Equilibrium.

In the recent Forbes article highlighting her journey from international upbringing to global leadership, Silvia shares her path with honesty, resilience, and vision. From leading the British Chamber of Commerce in the Czech Republic to building businesses across borders, and now heading a U.S. manufacturing operation, her story is a true example of modern global leadership.

We are especially proud that Silvia previously led the Equilibrium programme, and is currently an EQ15 mentee. It means a great deal to us that EQ and the Chamber could be part of her success story.

Her journey reminds us why mentorship, international collaboration, and strong professional communities matter. When talent meets opportunity, powerful things happen.

Congratulations, Silvia. We are cheering you on from here! 🚀

Read the full Forbes article HERE 

The post Equilibrium Mentee, Silvia Bušniaková featured in Forbes Slovakia appeared first on Equilibrium.

The event was opened by H.E. Bilal Zahid, British Ambassador to Slovakia, alongside Ivona Žitná, Managing Director of the British Chamber of Commerce in the Slovak Republic, and Pavel Fara, Managing Director of the British Chamber of Commerce in the Czech Republic.

The panel, moderated by Viktória Škřivánková, Senior Project Associate at IOM, UN Migration, featured Miroslava Remenárová, President of the British Chamber of Commerce in the Slovak Republic; Iva Kleinová, Senior Advisor on Start-up Ecosystem & Talent at Bratislava, the Capital City of Slovakia; Igor Šulík, Managing Partner at Amrop Slovakia; and Miroslava Rychtárechová, Head of Country People Operation Manager at Tesco Stores SR. The discussion focused on strengthening Slovakia’s ability to attract and retain female talent.

Key takeaways included:

Reducing the gender pay gap by increasing women’s representation in senior roles.

Supporting professionals returning to the Slovak labour market from abroad.

Promoting inclusive workplace cultures and addressing bias.

Recognizing that each professional who remains abroad represents an estimated EUR 2.8 million loss in long-term economic value.

Equilibrium in Slovakia Press Release

The post Equilibrium Panel in Slovakia Addresses Brain Drain of Female Talent appeared first on Equilibrium.

Mentors:

87 mentors from this edition completed our mid-term impact review. Here’s what our mentors had to say:

• 91% consider Equilibrium a valuable use of their time
• 71% have already observed clear progress in their mentees
• 91% report good or excellent mentor–mentee chemistry

Beyond the numbers, mentors describe the experience as illuminating, humbling, and a space for meaningful connection and growth.

Mentees:

74 mentees completed the mid-term impact review, and the feedback speaks for itself:
• 96% consider Equilibrium a valuable use of their time
• 80% report improvements in personal development and confidence
• 93% say they have good or excellent mentor–mentee chemistry

Mentees describe Equilibrium as a space for real reflection, honest conversations, and practical growth. A place where they can openly explore both professional and personal challenges with experienced mentors who bring an outside perspective.

Others highlight the community aspect, the organised events, the shared experiences, and the motivation that comes from connecting with people on a similar journey.

We’re incredibly encouraged by what we’re seeing at this stage of EQ15, and we’re excited to see how the second half of the programme continues to unfold.

The post EQ15 Mid-Term Feedback Results appeared first on Equilibrium.

We are proud to share with the community that Yvona Tošnerová FCCA, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at Raiffeisen stavební spořitelna and member of the Equilibrium by BCC Steering Committee, was recently featured in an in-depth interview for Moje psychologie 🧠.

In the article, Yvona speaks openly about women’s financial independence and long-term security, the role of mentoring and female leadership, and about the importance of courage, mindset, and knowing when to ask for support. She also highlights how even small, consistent financial steps can have a meaningful impact over time.

Her perspective perfectly reflects Equilibrium by BCC’s mission: supporting women in building confidence and sustainable success in both career and life. Thank you, Yvona, for being an inspiring voice and valued member of our community 👏.

You can find the full article HERE.

The post EQ Steering Committee Member Yvona Tošnerová Moje Psychologie Interview appeared first on Equilibrium.

In honour of the 15th EQ edition, enjoy 15% off all EQ bracelets for one week only, from 28 November – 5 December.

Whether you prefer red or blue, gold or silver, there’s a piece that speaks to your mentoring or menteeing journey. A thoughtful Christmas gift for anyone connected to Equilibrium, and a great chance to purchase yours at a special price 🎁

Stock is limited, so we encourage you to shop early.

You can get yours HERE

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✨ Equilibrium in Action! ✨

The Equilibrium bracelet is more than an accessory, it’s a symbol of balance, connection, and the values behind the BCC Equilibrium programme.

We love seeing our community wear theirs with pride, a simple reminder that when we support one another, we all move closer to true equilibrium. 💙

Now available in gold and silver, these bracelets make a meaningful gift or a personal keepsake.

👉 Get yours HERE

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