Zlín & Theme
Zlín
Zlín started as an insignificant craftsmen’s town hidden in the woods of eastern Moravia, with an unexpected potential for becoming an industrial giant and economic driver of early Czechoslovakia. Entrepreneur Tomáš Baťa ignited a spark of progress and, through his diligence, transformed it into a brave modern city representing an opportunity not only for Europe, but for the whole world. The ideas of his progressive mind are still visibly stamped into the city’s profile – from specific housing represented by functionalist gems to strong infrastructure and reliable public services. Even though Zlín lost its dominant position in the Czech economy, it remains an important industrial as well as cultural centre and significant part of modern history, one that Czechs can be truly proud of.
Motto
In times full of uncertainty, polarized opinions and violated values, there is still one thing that connects us all, no matter what we believe – freedom. Freedom is our right to stand up, speak out and do things differently, representing the highest state human being can ever achieve. However, sometimes it is easy to forget that freedom is a privilege our ancestors fought hard to secure for us, and we keep repeating the same mistakes that systematically strip us off our rights. Concepts such as freedom of speech, freedom of movement or freedom of religion are fragile and endangered once again and the only way to preserve them leads through respect, cooperation, education and listening.
With our motto “Steered by Freedom through Changing Seasons” we embrace our ability to discuss, to oppose and to share opinions. With freedom as our guide through harsh times, we open our minds to creative innovations and build steel-hard resilience against oppression and manipulation.
