Silvia Gašparovičová facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Silvia Gašparovičová
|
|
|---|---|
.jpg)
Gašparovičová in 2011
|
|
| First Lady of Slovakia | |
| In role 15 June 2004 – 15 June 2014 |
|
| President | Ivan Gašparovič |
| Preceded by | Irena Schusterová |
| Succeeded by | Martina Kisková |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Silvia Beníková
13 January 1941 Bratislava, Slovakia |
| Political party | Movement for Democracy (2002–present) |
| Spouse | Ivan Gašparovič (m. 1964) |
| Children | Two |
Silvia Gašparovičová (born January 13, 1941) served as the First Lady of Slovakia from 2004 to 2014. She held this important role because she is the wife of former President Ivan Gašparovič.
Contents
Her Early Life and Education
Silvia Gašparovičová studied at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava from 1960 to 1965. There, she focused on civil engineering, which is about designing and building things like roads and bridges. Later, from 1971 to 1973, she also studied economic law at Comenius University.
After her studies, she worked at the Ministry of Construction for many years, from 1971 until 1991. She also worked as an expert in real estate, which means she knew a lot about valuing properties. Before her husband became president, she was an executive at a private construction company.
What Does a First Lady Do?
As the First Lady of Slovakia, Mrs. Gašparovičová had a special job. She represented her country at many official events. These events took place both in Slovakia and in other countries.
For example, in October 2010, she welcomed King Harald and Queen Sonja of Norway to Slovakia. She joined Queen Sonja on visits to interesting places. These included an art center, a special center for children with disabilities, and a place that helps keep Slovak crafts alive.
Helping Others: The Silvia Gašparovičová Foundation
After becoming First Lady, Silvia Gašparovičová started her own organization called the Silvia Gašparovičová Foundation. This foundation works to help people in two main areas: education and health.
The foundation also supports projects that help women who want to start their own businesses. It also helps parents with different needs. Her work through the foundation shows her dedication to helping people and improving lives in Slovakia.
Special Awards and Recognition
Silvia Gašparovičová has received special awards from other countries for her work. These awards are called "honours."
Denmark: She received the title of Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the Dannebrog in October 2012.
Spain: She was also awarded the title of Dame Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic on October 22, 2007.
