Zakopane is a place that never stops inspiring – both those who visit and those fortunate enough to be born and raised here. In our "Girls of..." series, we introduce women whose daily lives show us the power of being close to nature, tradition, and personal passions.This time, we talk with two extraordinary women who, despite their differences, share a deep bond with this unique place.

Helka Rząsa: The Soul of Zakopane’s Tradition

Helka is a woman who wholeheartedly draws from her family heritage and Zakopane’s culture. “I’m extroverted, direct – when I show up, I show up with all my heart,” she says with a smile, guiding us to a meadow where a hut stands right next to her home. “This is my place for relaxation and preparing for the Theatre Academy. I feel it’s an extension of my world – here, the forest, the meadow, and Giewont come together in perfect harmony.”

Helka comes from an artistic family. Her grandfather and father are well-known sculptors, while her mother is a photographer. “We run a gallery that’s not just an exhibition space but also a place for unique artistic gatherings.” Art and nature are two inseparable elements of her life, shaping her every day.

“For me, Zakopane is a place where tradition lives in every detail. When I’m in Muzeum Tatrzańskie, I feel how deeply this city draws from the atmosphere of the interwar period. The Zakopane style and the history of this place inspire me daily.”

For Helka, Zakopane is more than just a spot on the map – it’s a space where the old and the contemporary meet, giving her energy to act and create.

Magda Sadowska: Mountain Passion and Daily Life

Magda, though raised in Warsaw, has felt from a young age that Zakopane is her true home. “My story with skiing began when I was three. My parents took me to Nosal and were eager for me to learn. Today, skiing is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life.”

For Magda, freeride skiing is not only a challenge but also a form of self-expression. “It’s freedom and testing my limits, but also time spent in nature and with people who share the same passion.”

Life in Zakopane is entirely different from the city she came from. “Here, people live differently. Nature sets the pace, and free time is spent in a completely different way. This place teaches me to appreciate moments and the beauty of everyday life.”

Despite her sporty lifestyle, Magda doesn’t forget her femininity. “What Zakopane gives me is balance – between passion and calm, adrenaline and reflection. I feel I’m in the right place.”

Helka and Magda show us that Zakopane is more than mountain landscapes and traditional architecture. It’s a space where one can find oneself, nurture passions, and create – in harmony with nature and Highlander culture.

Thank you, Helka and Magda, for sharing your stories with us.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to Muzeum Tatrzańskie for helping us uncover Zakopane’s heritage. Thanks to places like these, we gain a deeper understanding of the rich history and culture of this extraordinary region.