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We are pleased to present the Objective and Key Topics of the Breakout Session #1: Gender Equity for Sustainable Future during the Soroptimist International of Europe Congress 2025!

The aim of this session is to demonstrate how gender equality is a crucial component of sustainable economic and social development. We seek to inspire participants to take meaningful action toward building a more just and inclusive world. Each panelist will present insights based on their expertise.
Key topics will include:
✔️The connection between sustainability, gender equality, and economic growth
✔️Economic practices that promote equal opportunities for women and girls
✔️ Collaboration between business, the public sector, and civil society organizations
✔️ Strategies for implementing gender-sensitive policies
✔️ The role of women and girls in shaping a sustainable future  

Panelists' Presentations and Discussion:
Emma Holten – Social Justice and Gender Equity in Economic Systems Emma Holten, a leading feminist thinker, will discuss how traditional economic models have failed to value women’s contributions, particularly unpaid care work. Her insights will shed light on how economic justice and gender equity can drive sustainable societies.
Key Questions:
✔️ How have traditional economic models disadvantaged women?
✔️ What role does social justice play in achieving economic sustainability?
✔️ How can businesses and policymakers integrate gender equity into their strategies?

Dr hab. Galia Chimiak is an Associate Professor of Sociology with the Institute of Philosophy and Sociology, Polish Academy of Sciences. Her research interests focus on civil society and development cooperation. Galia was a Fulbright Senior Scholar in the USA for the 2024-25 academic year where she studied grassroots humanitarian and advocacy activities undertaken by Americans of East-European descent assisting Ukraine. She is a co-editor-in-chief of VOLUNTAS: International Journal of Voluntary and Nonprofit Organizations.

The Role of Civil Society in Advancing Economic and Social Sustainability Galia Chimiak will explore how CSOs have championed human rights and gender equality, particularly in the face of rising opposition. She will discuss how organizations can secure long- term sustainability and counteract efforts that threaten gender-inclusive progress.
Key Questions:
✔️ How can CSOs effectively promote economic and social sustainability?
✔️ What are the challenges faced by women-led organizations?
✔️ How can gender equality be safeguarded against political and social pushback? 

Marzena Maj - Philanthropy, Media, and Women’s Empowerment Marzena Maj, a trailblazer in the ventilation and fire safety industry, has amassed a remarkable 18 years of experience in HVAC and sales. Beyond corporate success, she started numerous philanthropic initiatives, including a gala collection of over PLN 14,000,000 (in 2023) and the first Championships of the Polish Construction Industry in Road Cycling (in 2024) for the beneficiaries of fire victims and Maj's family Foundations, of which she is the president. 
Key Questions:
✔️ How can philanthropy drive gender-inclusive economic policies?
✔️ What role does storytelling play in raising awareness about gender inequality?
✔️ How can business and media collaborate to promote sustainable social change?

Join us for this dynamic discussion and be part of the movement toward a more just and sustainable world!

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We are pleased to present the Objective and Key Topics of the Breakout Session #2: Seeds of change : Women Transforming Sustainable, Resilient Food Systems the Soroptimist International of Europe Congress 2025! 

Key topics will include:
✔️Highlight the transformative role of women in shaping sustainable agricultural practices and resilient food systems. ✔️Present innovative, gender-responsive solutions in water management, Zero Waste farming, and climate adaptation. ✔️Showcase case studies and grassroots initiatives that enhance food security, promote biodiversity, and reduce environmental impact.
✔️Promote community empowerment through citizen science, policy advocacy, and inclusive agricultural practices. ✔️Identify scalable strategies and partnerships that bridge local actions with global sustainability goals.

Panelists' Presentations and Discussion:
Rosaida Dolce – Environmental Engineer, FAO Land and Water Division, WASAG Rosaida Dolce is an Environmental Engineer specialized in water. Since 2016, she has been part of the Land and Water Division at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), where she supports the management of the Global Framework on Water Scarcity in Agriculture (WASAG) and works on the Addressing Water Scarcity for Agriculture and the Environment (AWSAMe) project.
Key Questions:
✔️Global perspectives on sustainable food systems and water resource management
✔️FAO initiatives for sustainable land and water use
✔️How gender-sensitive policies enhance climate resilience 

Dr. Amrita Gautam – Civil Engineer, PhD Candidate, Leader of the Drink Pani Project Amrita Gautam is a Civil Engineer from Nepal, pursuing her doctoral research at Faculty of Spatial Development and Infrastructure Systems, Technical University of Cologne with special focus in Hydro-Informatics: Water Supply Engineering and Management, having work experiences from various United Nations Organizations and Research Projects in Nepal, Germany, Mozambique, Brazil, Canada & USA. 
Key Questions:
✔️Hydro-Informatics and digital water management for agriculture
✔️Nepal case studies: water conservation and climate adaptation
✔️Role of citizen science in empowering women and communities 

Joanna Kądziołka – President, Polish Zero Waste Association Communication expert, environmental educator, initiator of an educational campaign calling for the introduction of a deposit system in Poland. Coordinator of social projects, including Zero Waste Map, which promotes businesses operating in the spirit of zero waste.
Key Questions:
✔️How to minimize waste across agricultural supply chains
✔️Zero Waste and circular economy practices
✔️Community engagement for sustainable consumption 

Jesca Oredo – CEO Nyochanda Ventures, SI Kenya Retired Chief Agricultural Officer County Government of Kisumu, Charter President SI Maseno Club, President SI Union of Kenya (2025-2026 biennium), CEO Nyochanda Ventures Chairperson Marketing & Publicity Agricultural Society of Kenya Kisumu (East Africa) Show. 
Key Questions:
✔️How Women-led sustainable agriculture in Kenya
✔️Zero Case study: water harvesting and food security
✔️Social impact of empowering women in farming 

This is more than just a conversation-it's an opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate on actionable solutions.

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We are pleased to present the Objective and Key Topics of the Breakout Session #3: Sustainable Cities – Paving the Way for Inclusive, Resilient Urban Futures during the Soroptimist International of Europe Congress 2025!

Cities are the engines of innovation and economic growth—but they also face challenges such as climate change, urban poverty, and infrastructure strain. This session will explore how urban systems, governance, and technological innovation can be harnessed to build sustainable, inclusive cities. By drawing on international best practices and interdisciplinary perspectives, we aim to identify actionable strategies for enhancing urban resilience, reducing poverty, and fostering sustainable economic prosperity.

Key topics will include:
  ✔️ Urban Systems and Governance: Examine how effective urban governance and land management can drive sustainability.
✔️ Climate Resilience and Energy Transition: Discuss strategies for enhancing cities’ resilience in the face of climate change and transitioning to clean energy.
✔️ Poverty Reduction and Housing: Explore policies and practices that reduce urban poverty, improve housing conditions, and ensure safe, inclusive spaces—especially for women.
✔️ Financing Sustainable Development: Highlight innovative financing models that can support large-scale urban sustainability projects.
✔️ Best Practices: Share global and European case studies that demonstrate successful approaches to sustainable urban development. 

Panelists' Presentations and Discussion:
Dr Alice Paola Pome - Department of Architecture, Construction Engineering and Built Environment – Politecnico Milano She will discuss how PropTech innovations and data-driven environmental impact assessments (through tools like the WIEFA) are transforming urban real estate and building efficiency. Her insights on technological and operational strategies will set the stage for sustainable urban infrastructure. Her goal is to implement sustainability in building management, to make buildings more efficient and less resource-consuming. 
Elizabeth Doherty – Economist in the OECD Cities Elizabeth Doherty is an Economist in the Inclusive Growth in Cities Unit at the OECD, where she primarily focuses on economic strategies to boost local prosperity and reduce multidimensional urban inequalities. Prior to joining the OECD, she held roles across the UK Government, including in the Growth and Places Analysis Team and the Circular Economy, Resources and Waste Team at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. She also worked as an economics and climate consultant in Amsterdam. Elizabeth holds a MSc in Economics from UCL and a BSc in Economics and Politics from the University of Bristol. 
Dr Katarzyna Iwińska - sociologist Dr Katarzyna Iwińska is a sociologist whose work focuses on the human perspective on a changing energy and environmental system. Since 2012, she has worked as an expert and researcher in interdisciplinary projects on (energy) decision-making processes, social acceptance of energy transition, and environmental/participatory democracy in local communities. Also, she has been working on education for sustainable development for social and humanities studies (MA and BA programs). She co-edited the handbook: “Widening Interdisciplinarity Sustainability Education – WISE book” (together with M. Kraszewska, M. Jones, 2018) and “Gender and Energy Transition: Case Studies from the Upper Silesia Coal-mining Region).

Key Questions:
✔️ How can cities become hubs for sustainable innovation and economic prosperity?
✔️ What policies and technologies can reduce urban poverty and inequality while ensuring safe spaces for women?
✔️ How can governance, land management, and innovative financing mechanisms support the achievement of sustainability goals in urban areas?

Join us for this dynamic discussion and be part of the movement toward a more just and sustainable world!

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We are pleased to present the Objective and Key Topics of the Breakout Session #4 : The Istanbul Convention and Gender-Based Violence during the Soroptimist International of Europe Congress 2025!

The Istanbul Convention represents a significant international treaty focused on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence. This session aims to deepen the understanding of the Convention’s principles and the pivotal role of the Group of Experts on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (GREVIO) in its implementation. Panelists will explore the impact of this landmark treaty in shaping gender equality policies, and the vital work of GREVIO and organizations like the European Women's Lobby (EWL) in advancing these causes. 

Key topics will include:
✔️ Define GREVIO’s Role and Expertise;
✔️ Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence Prevention;
✔️ Multi-Agency Cooperation;
✔️ Gender Equality Advocacy and Policy Development;
✔️ Soroptimist Project "Room of her own”;

Panelists' Presentations and Discussion:
Pascale Franck is an expert in gender-based violence, domestic violence, and child abuse As part of GREVIO, she brings in-depth knowledge of the monitoring mechanisms and legal frameworks that uphold the Istanbul Convention. She has extensive experience in project management, multi-agency collaboration, and training, specializing in nonprofit organizations, police and justice, and public speaking. 
Katarzyna Sękowska-Kozłowska is a researcher at the Institute of Law Studies of the Polish Academy of Sciences Director of Poznan Human Rights Centre, on board of Interdisciplinary Centre for Cultural Gender and Identity Studies of Poznań University and lectures Gender Studies. Is also member of several Polish and international legal bodies like Federation for Women and Family Planning. Expert of the European Commission.  
Rita Chiappa is a representative of Soroptimist International, SI Vercelli Program Director of the Italian Union and will present the Room of her own project which supports women and girls who have experienced gender-based violence. Rita has vast experience in managing Soroptimist projects and is dedicated to creating sustainable and impactful change for women in need. 

Join us for this dynamic discussion and be part of the movement toward a more just and sustainable world!

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We are pleased to present the Objective and Key Topics of the Breakout Session #1: AI Emerging issue – The AI Nexus: Intersection technologies, equality and sustainable tomorrow – during the Soroptimist International of Europe Congress 2025!

This workshop will focus specifically on the social sustainability dimension, which centers on creating systems ensuring equitable access to resources, social justice, human rights, and opportunities. Social sustainability is about fostering inclusion, diversity, equity, and maintaining a high quality of life, particularly as it impacts all women and girls. We will explore how emerging technologies, specifically artificial intelligence, can be harnessed to accelerate progress and development for all women and girls, thereby contributing to the Beijing +30 agenda and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Key topics will include: 
✔️ Educate participants on how AI is transversal and relevant for progressing on the Beijing 30+ agenda.
✔️Engage participants in an interactive contribution to working sessions focused on the intersection of AI and Social Sustainability for all women and girls
✔️ Identify key challenges, opportunities, and strategies for leveraging AI to improve and develop digital literacy, therefore pivotal for progress and empowerment.
✔️ Contribute to building a report/toolkit that participants can adapt and use locally to accelerate AI initiatives in alignment with Beijing+30 and the 12 critical areas. This toolkit is intended to empower participants to disseminate knowledge and accelerate training in their respective countries. 

Panelists' Presentations and Discussion:
Tania Gomez Herazo – expert director Devoteam Tania is an expert director and Cloud Programme Manager at Devoteam. With a global proven track record in strategy, delivery, and operations, she is a seasoned IT consultant with +20 years of experience driving digital transformation and fostering technological agility within international organizations. Tania inspires others to leverage technology for business growth and innovation.

Simon Ruszala - Group Learning Director at Devoteam Simon Ruszala designs and implements strategic learning and development initiatives aimed at elevating employee skills and knowledge, thereby fostering business success and driving innovation. His role also entails the continuous evaluation of future skills to proactively integrate them into our organisation, ensuring that employees can adapt and learn at the pace of change. Moreover, he takes the lead in Devoteam's Top Talent program, playing a pivotal role in the development and retention of our most valuable and high-potential employees. 

Tristan Van Thielen - CTO of Devoteam's Google Cloud Business Unit in Belgium Tristan Van Thielen is the CTO of Devoteam's Google Cloud Business Unit in Belgium and leads their EMEA Machine Learning Tribe. A Google Cloud certified Professional ML Engineer and AI Champion, he holds an M.S. in Computer Science (AI) from KU Leuven He guides ML teams at various companies, defines standards, and possesses deep experience in MLOps, model development, Google Cloud data projects, data strategy, and responsible AI. An experienced speaker, he recently moderated a UNGA workshop on AI's impact on Gender Equality.  

Giulia Massimetti - Machine Learning Engineer at Devoteam Giullia is Italian-born and Brussels-based, Giulia works at the forefront of predictive and generative AI as a Machine Learning Engineer at Devoteam. Leveraging a strong academic foundation in computer science and mathematics, she tackles the challenges of AI adoption and productionaliation on international projects. She holds a Master in Computer Science from ULB.

Expected Outcomes: 
✔️ An enhanced understanding of the critical link between AI, 12 critical areas of Beijing 30+, UN SDG’s and Social Sustainability, particularly concerning the empowerment and well-being of all women and girls.
✔️Identification of concrete strategies and actionable points for leveraging AI to advance Social Sustainability in alignment with ts. the Beijing +30 agenda and the SDGs.

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We are pleased to present the Objective and Key Topics of the Breakout Session #2 : AI and Healthcare during the Soroptimist International of Europe Congress 2025!

Healthcare is under increasing pressure due to rising demands, limited resources, and workforce shortages. AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by improving diagnostics, personalizing treatments, and optimizing medical workflows. However, AI is not inherently neutral—it reflects the biases of those who create it. Given that AI development has largely been led by men, there is a growing concern that AI in healthcare may reinforce gender disparities rather than resolve them.

Key topics will include: 
This session will explore the role of AI in healthcare, examining whether it promotes gender equality or unintentionally prioritizes men’s health. We will discuss real-life examples, practical solutions, and collaborative efforts between businesses, NGOs, women’s organizations, and individuals to create AI-powered healthcare that works for all.
✔️ Highlight the intersection of AI, healthcare, and gender equality.
✔️ Discuss strategies to ensure AI-driven healthcare solutions are inclusive and ethical.
✔️ Showcase best practices and real-world applications of AI in healthcare.
✔️ Facilitate cross-sector collaboration to drive equitable health innovations.

Panelists' Presentations and Discussion:
Karolina Kornowska – Executive Assistant of the AI in Health Coalition Karolina Kornowska is the Executive Assistant of the AI in Health Coalition, alumna of the 10th edition of the Healthcare Leaders programme, CSR Ambassador for the Responsible Business Forum, member of the AI in Medicine Student Research Club, and National Coordinator for Human Rights and Peace for the International Federation of Medical Students' Associations IFMSA-Poland 2023/2024.

Xenia Kuiper - Robotics in Health - Bridging technology and humanity in the social domain. Xenia Kuiper is an expert at the intersection of robotics, AI, and social innovation. With over 15 years of experience in the social domain and a proven track record in initiating and leading technological innovation projects, she has a deep understanding of how to develop and implement human-centered technology. Xenia has led various projects and applied research initiatives within the Dutch healthcare sector, focusing on the use of social robots and AI companions. Always guided by ethics, inclusion, and real-world impact, she is a creative strategist and sharp thinker who connects technology, policy, and practice.

Sadiye Emel Sokullu – Expert Leadership in AI & Healthcare Founder of the AI and Technology Foundation in Turkey. Leads AI transformation projects in medical research and clinical trial workflows, improving diagnostics and patient outcomes. Board member of Harvard Alumni, engaged in international AI policy working groups. Advocates for ethical AI integration in healthcare, emphasizing inclusivity, sustainability, and fairness.

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We are pleased to present the Objective and Key Topics of the Breakout Session #3: AI in Education - Empowerment or Risk? during the Soroptimist International of Europe Congress 2025!

This session explores how AI in education can be both a tool of empowerment and a source of new risks. We will examine how Soroptimists and their partners can ensure AI’s implementation upholds human rights, strengthens educational equity, and avoids reinforcing harmful biases.  

Key topics will include: 
✔️ How can AI in education advance gender equality—and what safeguards are needed to protect marginalised learners?
✔️Economic What are the biggest ethical red flags in AI-driven education—and how do we address bias, data misuse, and misinformation?
✔️ Can AI and human mentorship co-exist in the classroom? How do we preserve critical thinking and connection in an AI-powered world?  

Panelists' Presentations and Discussion:
Professor Dr. Felisa Tibbitts – UNESCO Chair in Human Rights and Higher Education. As UNESCO Chair in Human Rights and Higher Education, Felisa will bring a global human rights education perspective, drawing from her UNESCO Chair in Human Rights and Higher Education and her ties to the Dutch Soroptimists. She will explore how education can protect and promote rights in an AI-driven world and ethical AI governance in education.

Evelyne Para – With decades of experience in computer science and electronics and as a long-time Soroptimist UN representative to UNESCO, Evelyne will link technical insight, rebuild the bridge between society and science, focusing on the empowerment of girls/women and digital education / literacy. She will also reflect on the risks of digital exclusion and bias, and how to rebuild trust between science, education, and society.

Dr. Joanna Bagniewska - Science communicator and lecturer in Environmental Science at Oxford University, Joanna will connect science literacy with responsible AI use. She will highlight how AI should enhance critical thinking and learning outcomes, especially in early education, using Oxford case studies. Through practical examples, she’ll explore how to responsibly integrate AI into early education while preserving connection and curiosity.

Key Questions:
✔️ How can AI in education advance gender equality—and what safeguards are needed to protect marginalised learners?
✔️ What are the biggest ethical red flags in AI-driven education—and how do we address bias, data misuse, and misinformation?
✔️ Can AI and human mentorship co-exist in the classroom? How do we preserve critical thinking and connection in an AI-powered world? 

Join us for this dynamic discussion and be part of the movement toward a more just and sustainable world!

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We are pleased to present the Objective and Key Topics of the Breakout Session #4 : Facing Cyberviolence in the age of AI: Women’s voices under threat during the Soroptimist International of Europe Congress 2025!

Cyberviolence is an escalating threat to the safety, dignity and digital autonomy of women and girls globally. From online harassment and cyberstalking to deepfakes, image-based abuse, data misuse and text-based abuse, technology is increasingly used to perpetuate violence against women and girls. As digital spaces become more integral to daily life, ensuring they are safe, inclusive, and governed by respect for human rights and democracy is critical. With the rise of AI technologies, these harms are becoming faster, more scalable and harder to trace or regulate. This session will explore the alarming trends, demystify the various forms of cyberviolence, explore solutions, and discuss innovative tools, policies and victim-centred justice approaches for prevention and protection.

Key topics will include:  To raise awareness about the risks and realities of AI-facilitated cyberviolence, provide insight into gaps in current legal and policy responses, and equip soroptimist leaders with advocacy and educational approaches as well as practical models to implement projects to prevent and protect digital spaces for women and girls. ✔️ Define cyberviolence and highlight its gendered impact on women and girls.
✔️Identify alarming trends and examine the role of AI in scaling and intensifying online abuse.
✔️Address the psychological, social, and economic consequences of cyberviolence.
✔️Explore how online misogyny and gender stereotypes reinforce online harm.
✔️Present prevention tools and victim-centred response strategies.
✔️Recognize the full spectrum of online harms.

Panelists' Presentations and Discussion:
Professor Olga Jurasz - Professor of Law at the Open University (UK) and Director of the Centre for Protecting Women Online Olga Jurasz is a Professor of Law at the Open University (UK) and Director of the Centre for Protecting Women Online, serving since 2024 as an independent expert to the Council of Europe Committee of Experts on combatting technology-facilitated violence against women and girls. Professor Jurasz collaborates with UN Women and provided advice to the Council of Europe regarding the first recommendation on the digital dimension of Violence Against Women by GREVIO – the Council of Europe’s independent expert body monitoring the implementation of the CoE Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence. Her expertise has been used by governments, international organisations and NGOs to influence changes in law and policy online violence against women. 

Sylwia Spurek – Dr. Sylwia Spurek, attorney-at-law, human rights defender, President of the European Fem Institute. Dr. Sylwia Spurek has been a vocal leader in addressing structural gender inequalities, both in Poland and across the EU, considering the topic of AI and cyberviolence “both timely and crucial”. As a member of the European Parliament and former Deputy Ombudsperson for Human Rights in Poland, she has consistently championed legislation to ensure strong EU-wide frameworks where victims’ rights are respected in the digital age. Dr. Sylwia Spurek served as a rapporteur on the European Union’s first Directive on combating violence against women, and will address how EU legislation is targeting online and AI-driven violence, from its strengths to its gaps and to how laws must be implemented across Member-States, using her fearless voice to emphasize regulation for Big-Tech and enforcement mechanisms to protect women’s rights online. 

Sandra Ramalho – SI Lisbon-Caravela & e-wings Portugal As a Soroptimist in Portugal, Sandra focuses on empowering women and girls through education and social impact projects, being actively involved in the planning and execution of several grass-root initiatives. She will present a Soroptimist project focused on educating to prevent violence against women, the E-WINGS, an innovative digital education toolkit that aims to alert and transform society, in particular youth and educators. Her intervention will showcase how soroptimists can bring real real-life grassroots perspectives into policy discussions and help fill the gaps in the current design of digital safety measures. Through the E-WINGS example, Sandra will illustrate how NGOs can provide truth worthy, accessible and community-based responses to cyberviolence, where institutional mechanisms fall short in protecting women and girls online.

Dina Loghin – President, European Women’s Lobby As newly elected President of the European Women’s Lobby, Dina brings a powerful pan-European feminist voice to the conversation. With extensive experience in civil society and human rights advocacy, Dina leads the largest umbrella organization of women’s rights in Europe, representing more than 2.000 member organizations, to which Soroptimist International of Europe is proudly an affiliate member. She will present key findings from the EWL’s recently revised Cyberviolence Report and the set of key recommendations for combating violence against women in digital spaces, based on the fundamental recognition that online violence is real violence, undermining women’s civic and political participation. Dina will explore how society can monitor and influence the transposition of the EU Directive on Combating Violence Against Women (by 14th July 2027, all EU members states must adopt national laws that fully reflect its obligations), particularly in ensuring AI-enabled abuse is not left behind.

Join us for this dynamic discussion and be part of the movement toward a more just and sustainable world!

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Congress Dinner Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time: 19:00
Venue : Old Tram Depot (Stara Zajezdnia) 
Address: Św. Wawrzyńca 12, 31-060 Kraków (Map) 
Please note: Extra fee 85 EUR 
Dress code: business casual.

Old Tram Depot - Stara Zajezdnia Kraków is a historic building in the centre of Krakow's Kazimierz. The Hall was built in 1913 and was once a tram depot. The renovated building is a unique facility and an example of a rare wooden skeleton architecture in Krakow with brickwork, frequently called “Prussian Wall”. It gives the interior an unusual characteristic and makes it a place with a soul and original atmosphere. Stara Zajezdnia offers its own micro-brewery, the beer produced by them has a remarkable appeal.