Breaking stereotypes about Roma women – success stories from Croatia

The Roma community has faced prejudice and discrimination for centuries, with Roma women being particularly affected as they often find themselves at the intersection of gender and ethnic barriers. However, despite these challenges, many Roma women have managed to exceed societal expectations, pursue education, and build careers in various fields. Their stories prove that talent, effort, and opportunity can overcome prejudice.

Photo: Ani Kolleshi on Unsplash

The power of education – a path to change

One of the most important tools in breaking stereotypes is education. Too many Roma women lack access to quality education due to poverty, social restrictions, or discrimination. However, the success stories of Roma women demonstrate how education can change lives.

Severina Lajtman, from Piskorovec, a Roma settlement in Medjimurje (Croatia), is the first Roma woman to appear on the cover of a Croatian magazine. She is involved in acting and modelling, using her work to challenge prejudices and stereotypes about Roma people in Croatia.

According to HRT (Croatian national radio and television), twin sisters Ivana and Martina Horvat from Parag, the largest Roma settlement in Medjimurje, completed their studies at the Secondary Medical School in Marusevec. Their success serves as a positive example and encouragement for education within the Roma community. They work as nurses, contributing to the healthcare system and serving as role models for young Roma women.

How can the media help change perceptions?

One of the main reasons stereotypes persist is the negative portrayal of Roma people in the media. They are often depicted through the lens of poverty, crime, or unemployment, while positive examples remain nearly invisible.

There is a need for more stories about successful Roma women who have become doctors, scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, and politicians. Projects like RomniMe can play a key role in promoting such stories and changing public perception.

Text written by the Deaconess Foundation’s Croatian partner Sportsko učilište PESG