In February 2025, Magdalena Basak and Paweł Rogowski from the Art Transparent foundation took part in the Elevating Creative Sustainable Leadership training in Slovenia, organized by PiNA. Set amidst the breathtaking natural landscape of mountains, rivers, and lakes, the five-day training offered space for reflection, knowledge exchange, and forward-thinking dialogue on sustainable leadership in the cultural and creative sectors.
The training, held within the framework of The Big Green project (co-funded by Creative Europe Desk Poland), wove the program’s sustainability principles into every aspect of its methodology. Through collaborative exercises and open discussion, participants were invited to explore how creative leadership can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.
One of the most inspiring moments for Magdalena was the future scenario exercise, which encouraged participants to imagine and map out transformative visions for the future. This activity helped break away from routine thinking, offering new perspectives on what may seem unattainable in the present. It became a tool not only for long-term strategic planning but also for recharging creativity and envisioning real change.
Magdalena reflects:
“The training gave me a fresh outlook on leadership and sustainability. What stood out was the way values were seamlessly built into the learning experience. It also reminded me that many of us, across borders and sectors, are facing the same challenges — and that we’re stronger when we learn and act together.”
The training was also a space for building international connections. A seed for a new project idea was planted during these days — one that has already gained early interest and support from other participating organizations.
Led by Maja Drobne, Borut Jerman, and Jaka Kovac from PiNA, the training welcomed participants from across Europe:
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Sciaena (Portugal): Vasco Guia de Abreu
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Pro Progressione (Hungary): Tímea Kókai Nagy, Fruzsina Dézsi, Anna Némethné Molnár
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South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (Finland): Silja Suntola
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Latvijas Jaunā teātra institūts / New Theatre Institute of Latvia (Latvia): Linda Krumina
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Sustainable Europe Research Institute (SERI) (Germany): Philipp P. Thapa
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Bazaart (Serbia): Suncica Milosavljevic, Natasa Milojevic
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Nomad and Outdoor Montenegro (Montenegro): Bojana Sekulic
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Art Transparent (Poland): Magdalena Basak
We extend our warm thanks to everyone involved for the meaningful conversations, shared learning, and new partnerships that emerged. The journey toward sustainable leadership continues — and so does our commitment to shaping a better future through art and collaboration.
