In Trenčín, we successfully kicked off the first session of the educational course Runway | Culture Professionals, offering a unique opportunity for cultural managers from across Slovakia. This program, organized as part of the European Capital of Culture Trenčín 2026 initiative, focuses on developing strategic, organizational, and creative skills within the cultural sector.
The first session focused on strategic planning, a fundamental aspect of managing any cultural organization successfully. Under the guidance of Vishalakshi Roy from the University of Warwick, participants learned how to create clear and practical strategies that can be applied in their day-to-day work. As one participant noted, “Even a simple strategy is better than chaos.”
Photo: Dvaja
Runway is composed of five two-day sessions, each dedicated to a different aspect of cultural management—from audience engagement and brand building to team development. The goal is to prepare culture professionals for the challenges not only of 2026 but also beyond.
One of the main benefits of the program is the opportunity to network with peers from various parts of Slovakia and Europe. Participants appreciate not only the knowledge gained but also the chance to form new relationships and collaborations. As one past participant remarked, “There are great colleagues here, with whom we are forming connections, comparing notes, and realizing that we have much to share and collaborate on in the future.”
The Runway course is another step in preparing Trenčín for 2026, when it will become the European Capital of Culture. This program supports not only the education and professionalization of culture professionals but also the development of long-term projects that will benefit the community well into the future.
