SIMONA LESKOVSKA: HOW SHE MADE HER SILENT VOW COME TRUE.

April 18, 2024

“I firmly believe that in today’s world, there are no limitations to what women can achieve.“

Born in beautiful Bratislava, Simona Leskovska is a woman helping to change the narrative around women in sports.

In the predominantly male-dominated world of football, she is part of a growing fraternity of women bringing diversity to the game, offering different views, opinions, and expertise and helping to inspire a generation of women into sports broadcasting.

A former professional volleyball player, Simona is now a successful sports broadcaster in her own right and is the face and voice of the Slovakia national football team.

“I used to play volleyball when I was young,” explains Simona, so sports have always been a very important part of my life.

“It has taught me so much about discipline, motivation, and overcoming challenges. I love being a part of the sports world and the excitement that comes with it.

“But I also have another side of me – the world of modelling. It may seem like an unlikely combination, but I love how they complement each other. Modelling has taught me confidence and grace, and it’s a nice balance to the competitive nature of sports.”

A graduate in media and marketing communications, Simona is not only intelligent, polite, and knowledgeable but comes equipped with an engaging, and infectious personality, “I’ve always been a talkative person and it seems like I never run out of energy.”

Her passion and lust for life are evident in all of her work, which is fuelled by an unrelenting drive and determination, to always do better every single day. In the highly critical and judgemental world of football, she is also incredibly self-aware of the microscope she comes under, “As women we must demonstrate that we are not merely decorative figures, but that we genuinely comprehend football.”

Simona knows the challenges and difficulties that come with the profession and she takes inspiration from all women who fearlessly take on a role in football and believes in the importance of supporting and championing their successes.

It has been Simona’s dream for as long as she can remember to be a sports broadcaster, and it’s a journey which has demanded hard work. Whilst pursuing her ambition, she studied day and night at university, worked in advertising, interned in TV, and modelled all whilst maintaining focus on achieving her ultimate goal.

Her life often moves at 100 miles per hour, and she is constantly in demand, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“My days are always busy and different, which I enjoy. I work in sports, so it is always full-on, whether I’m writing reports, interviewing players, or creating ads. I also still do some modelling when I can. Staying active is really important to me. I love running, doing yoga, or working out at the gym – I just can’t sit still!”

These days her work can take her across the world, but she has never forgotten her roots or the place that means most to her.

“I’m from Bratislava, a really pretty city that I love. Even though I travel a lot, there’s something special
about coming back home.”

For Simona, Slovakia means everything to her, and she swells with pride every time she mentions her homeland. That is why this summer promises to be one of the most exciting of her life and career as the Slovak national team prepares to make their way to Germany to compete in Euro 2024, where she will be with them every step of the way.

It was a pleasure to sit down with Simona, as we talked about her journey so far, the importance of hard work and her determination to carve out her place in the sports broadcasting world right here in Slovakia.

DETERMINED

I consider myself a family-oriented person, and even though I am the only child, my parents have always been my biggest role models and supporters.

They taught me valuable life lessons on how to be respectful, independent, responsible, and humble.
One of the most important things that they have always emphasised is the value of education, which is why I decided to attend university to pursue my professional goal in the media industry.

However, my life changed dramatically when my father passed away in 2022. He was not only my father, but also my biggest motivator, and losing him was a tragedy for our whole family. It was very difficult for me personally, but I know that he was a mentally and physically strong person, having been a successful sportsman.

I find comfort in knowing that he is still with me, and his memory gives me the strength to persevere through any challenge.

YOU CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING YOU SET YOUR MIND TO

Along with pursuing my education at university, I have also gained valuable experience in my career so far by working in an advertising agency, interning in TV, and even modelling.

I completed a master’s degree in media and marketing communication in 2016. This degree has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career in marketing, media and public relations.

Currently, I work as a sports reporter/announcer at the Slovak Football Association, which has allowed me to develop skills in sports journalism and broadcasting. Sports is not just a hobby for me, it’s my passion.

I consider myself to be a determined and self-sufficient person who knows what I want in life. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but my hard work paid off when I eventually landed my dream job in the industry that I have always aspired to work in.

I strongly believe that if you work hard and stay committed to your goals, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

I MADE A SILENT VOW TO MYSELF

Throughout my life, I’ve had the opportunity to pursue a diverse array of interests and experiences, and I’m proud to have achieved a number of successes along the way.

From a young age, I was passionate about modelling, and I began pursuing that interest when I was just 13 years old. I had the opportunity to work in Istanbul for a period of four months, which was an incredible experience, but ultimately I decided to shift my focus to my studies and my career as a reporter.

When I was around 15 years old, I was deeply immersed in playing volleyball. After our training sessions though I’d eagerly tune in to watch football matches. Even back then, I noticed the charismatic presenters on screen who had a deep understanding of the game. However, in my country, the sports broadcasting scene was largely male-dominated.

It was during those moments that I made a silent vow to myself – one day, I would carve my place in the sports broadcasting world right here in Slovakia.

I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I was determined to make it my reality. Fast forward to when I was 20 years old – I produced my first report and concurrently commenced my university studies.

Looking back, all the effort and energy I poured into pursuing my dream were undoubtedly worth it.

As a reporter, I’ve had the chance to work on a number of high-profile events, including the World Championships in hockey and volleyball, triathlon, tennis and also the La Liga experience project. I’m particularly proud of my involvement with the Slovak National Football Team as a reporter.

In my opinion, women working in the football environment face new challenges every day. We must demonstrate that we are not merely decorative figures, but that we genuinely comprehend football.

As journalists, we often serve as psychologists, knowing precisely when and how to ask the right
questions. Drawing from my own experience as a former professional athlete and current sport-active
person, I empathise with the emotions and experiences players undergo, particularly after a match.

I firmly believe that in today’s world, there are no limitations to what women can achieve. With dedication and education, we can earn respect and succeed even in male-dominated industries like football. As long as we showcase our understanding and expertise, people will recognise and appreciate our contributions.

WITNESSING WOMEN THRIVING IN THIS INDUSTRY FUELS MY MOTIVATION

I genuinely admire successful women in the sports industry. Nowadays, there are numerous women worldwide who have made their mark, and I always eagerly anticipate encountering those who effortlessly blend into the football scene at stadiums.

From reporters to coaches, referees to physiotherapists, every woman who fearlessly takes on a role in football serves as an inspiration.

During my university days, my role model was the Spanish presenter, Sara Carbonero. Today, I find myself drawn to figures like Kate Abdo, among many others.

Witnessing women abroad thriving in this industry consistently fuels my strength and motivation. Their presence not only validates our capabilities but also propels us to pursue our passions without hesitation.

IT IS TRULY FULFILLING TO PURSUE WHAT I LOVE

Becoming a part of the Slovak football national team has always been my dream. When I first joined the under-21 national team, it was a significant moment for me.

The team’s great energy, along with the support from the coaching staff, meant a lot. Looking ahead, with Slovakia hosting the Euro under-21 championship in 2025, I’m hopeful of rejoining the team.

Over the past year, I’ve been honoured to be part of our full national team, which has been both a
journey and a responsibility. I cannot wait for Euro 2024. It’s truly fulfilling to pursue what I love, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to do so.

I’M ALWAYS UP FOR A CHALLENGE

I have always believed that life is full of opportunities, and I try to seize them whenever I can. One of the most interesting experiences I’ve had was being delegated to represent Slovakia in MISS SUPRANATIONAL, eight years after I participated in Miss Slovakia.

Some might think it was too late, but I saw it as a chance to showcase how much I’ve grown and developed as a person.

I’m always up for a challenge, and I knew that this was a unique opportunity that I couldn’t let pass me by.

It’s fascinating, as I also conduct media training with the current Miss Slovakia finalists. It’s a great opportunity to share my experiences and help them prepare for their own challenges.

Modelling has taught me confidence and grace, and it’s a nice balance to the competitive nature of sports. I’ve also been fortunate to collaborate with a number of prestigious fashion brands over the years, including Escada, Elisabetta Franchi, and Marc Cain. These partnerships have allowed me to express my creativity and passion for fashion in exciting and meaningful ways.

I’M GRATEFUL FOR IT EVERY DAY

I’m someone who believes in living each day to the fullest, always setting new goals, and striving to inspire and motivate others.

I’m eagerly anticipating the upcoming Euro 2024 and I’m so excited for them and have high hopes for our success. My focus and efforts are currently centred around preparing for the tournament.

During the summer, I’m also planning to travel to the south of Europe to recharge and gain some
energy.

Additionally, I’m excited about some new projects and collaborations in the works, although I can’t share specifics just yet. I’m genuinely looking forward to these new experiences and opportunities for growth.
Being able to do what I love is one of life’s greatest blessings, and I’m grateful for it every day.