ELA Alumna of the Month – February 2025
Meet Denisa Rohunová, our newest ELA Alumna of the Month from Czech Republic!
Since taking part in The Women’s Academy for Rural Innovation in Croatia, Denisa has taken her startup to the next level with newfound confidence. She is passionate about harnessing AI to create equal opportunities and making technology accessible to all.
Read about how her ELA experience fuelled her ambition and inspired her to dive fearlessly into new challenges:
Which aspects of the European Leadership Academy made your time with us such a life-changing experience for you?
There are so many things that come to mind. If I would have to choose, then surely the opportunity to meet so many outstanding and inspiring women from business or politics that I normally wouldn’t have the chance to meet, and being able to talk to them and ask them for advice.
How did the ELA programme you attended impact your personal growth? What’s a moment or sentence that you will never forget?
I now think big and pursue my goals fearlessly. The quote I'll never forget and that has become my motto is: “Great achievements aren't just for the chosen few - they're attainable for all who work hard.” Seeing successful women who started like me proves that if they could make it, so can I.
Did the programme influence your plans? Did it bring you closer to your goals and/or help you take a different path?
The programme helped me realise that what I'm doing with my startup is truly valuable. It gave me the extra motivation and confidence to pursue my goals even more passionately. I'm now more determined than ever to give it my all and take my business to the next level.
What steps have you taken in your life and career since completing the programme?
Since the programme, I've jumped into everything with full energy. I'm launching my first practical online course in March, and I'm also starting a podcast where I'll be interviewing inspiring women, especially from the tech world. I'm no longer holding back - I'm going all in with confidence.
What have you achieved in the past few years that you are you most proud of?
Looking back, I'm particularly proud of overcoming my fear of public speaking. I've grown to lead workshops and training sessions, stepping far outside my comfort zone. Being selected for the European Leadership Academy feels like recognition of my progress and motivates me to achieve even more.
Knowing what you know now – what would you wish to have done differently?
Looking back, while I don't regret any of my decisions or experiences, I wish I had recognised my true potential earlier. I would tell my younger self to embrace challenges with confidence sooner, knowing that self-doubt only delays the impact we can make as leaders.
How did the programme shape your view of society and the changes that digital technology can bring?
The programme confirmed my belief that digital technology can create equal opportunities for everyone. It strengthened my drive to make this happen.
What is your vision for a more inclusive and sustainable future and how do you aim to contribute to it?
I aim to make AI accessible and practical for everyone by turning complex technology into simple solutions. This will help create equal opportunities and drive sustainable growth across society.
What advice would you give the many women out there wishing to make a difference?
You are already enough to make a difference right now - don't wait until you feel “ready”. You have the power to create change today. Start small, think big, and remember that meaningful impact begins with a single step. Success is for everyone who dares to try.
Lastly, please share the name of one song / book / movie that inspires you. The ELA community is always eager to broaden the sources of imagination and creativity!
“Young Woman and the Sea”. This movie is about a courageous female swimmer, Trudy Ederle, who back in 1926 became the first woman to swim across the English Channel. She didn't just do it - she crushed the men's record by two hours, totally proving wrong everyone who said women couldn't do it.
