Mateja Malnar Štembal is a historian, communicator and advocate whose life journey is a testament to resilience, optimism and a passion for making a difference. With a career spanning over 25 years in government communications and three years in corporate business, Mateja has honed her expertise in crafting impactful narratives. As the co-founder and president of ONA VE (SHE KNOWS), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to empowering women to take centre stage in media and public discussions, she has become a powerful voice for gender equality and representation.
Her personal story is one of perseverance. At 30, shortly after becoming a mother, Mateja faced a severe health challenge: a tumour that required urgent surgery. Although benign, it led to the removal of multiple organs, including her left kidney, part of her pancreas, stomach, and intestines. In 2021, she was diagnosed with diabetes, a condition she now manages with insulin and an active lifestyle. These experiences have shaped her perspective on health and sparked her passion for raising awareness about chronic illnesses.
She believes in listening to the body, making informed choices, and embracing life fully. Her golden retriever, Lars, is both her constant companion and motivation for staying active, as their daily walks help her maintain balance and well-being.
Her life philosophy is simple: live fully, inspire others, and never stop striving for a healthier, happier future.
