In May 2026, 22 civil society leaders from 13 countries across Central and Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans gathered in Bratislava, Slovakia for the 16th NGO Leadership Workshop.
Over an intensive week, participants worked on how to lead effectively in complex, high-pressure environments while strengthening the resilience and sustainability of their organizations. Interactive sessions covered adaptive leadership and change management, strategic negotiation, and stress management and burnout prevention, alongside the real challenges leaders face today, from staff turnover to alternative funding sources and stronger fundraising communication. Beyond the formal sessions, meaningful exchanges continued over shared meals, the opening reception at Restaurant Štefánka and a group outing to Svätý Jur. A highlight of the week was an afternoon with former Slovak President Zuzana Čaputová, who took part in a fireside chat and one-on-one conversations with participants.
