Zakopane – a place that combines majestic mountains, tradition, and modernity. It is not only a popular tourist destination but, above all, home to people full of passion, energy, and love for what they do. In our series "Girls of Zakopane," we met extraordinary girls who, in various ways, show how the Tatras and Góral culture influence their lives. Now it's time to introduce the last two heroines – Zosia Staszel and Hania Kurek. Their stories are a tale of art, adrenaline, and a unique relationship with the place that shaped them.

Zosia Staszel – art inspired by the mountains

Zakopane for Zosia Staszel is more than just a place on the map. It's her home, an oasis of peace, and a never-ending source of inspiration. Studying architecture, Zosia combines her artistic sensibility with her love for the Tatra Mountains. Her creative journey began at the Antoni Kenar State High School of Fine Arts in Zakopane, which she calls a turning point in her life. "It was a school that opened my eyes to art and allowed me to meet amazing people who inspired me," says Zosia. Her art is full of references to nature and Highlander tradition. Everything inspires her – from mountain landscapes to the architecture of shepherd's huts, which she admires for their simplicity and timeless proportions. "These buildings show what a sense of beauty and aesthetics the Highlanders had," says Zosia, standing next to one of the traditional shepherd's huts. Although she does not directly engage with folklore, traditional elements such as her grandmother's corset or earrings worn by her ancestors are of great importance to her. "These are things that connect me to the past and remind me where I come from," she says. Zakopane is a place that gives Zosia space to grow. In her free time, she traverses mountain trails, climbs rocks, and skis. "I feel best here – these mountains, this peace, this is my place on Earth," emphasizes Zosia.

Hania Kurek – adrenaline on two wheels

Hania Kurek is a girl who lives with passion and adrenaline. Her life revolves around extreme mountain biking (MTB), which she fell in love with as a teenager. It all started when she presented her parents with a choice: a motorbike or a bicycle? "I said: listen, either a bike or a motorbike – choose the lesser evil. I want to ride, I want to do extreme sports, because I've always been drawn to it," Hania recalls. Her parents agreed to the bike, although they had their doubts more than once. "My mom regretted that decision many times, especially when she picked me up from the hospital," Hania laughs. But for her, it was the beginning of a journey that has lasted over a decade. Today, Hania not only competes in MTB events but also coaches others – both on bikes and skis. Zakopane is a place that offers Hania unlimited opportunities to develop her passion. "The whole of Zakopane is for cycling and skiing," she says with enthusiasm. She loves that she can leave her house, strap on her skis and go ski touring, or jump on her bike and ride down mountain trails. Hania emphasizes that extreme sports allow her to find the strength that she sometimes lacks in everyday life. "On the bike, I feel stronger, more confident. This place and these mountains shape me," she adds. Her life is a constant challenge, but also the peace she finds in Zakopane's nature.

Zosia and Hania are two different personalities united by their love for Zakopane – a place that inspires, shapes, and provides space for realizing passions. For Zosia, it is an oasis of peace and a source of artistic energy; for Hania, it is a space for challenges and sporting adventures. Their stories show that the magic of Zakopane lies not only in its views and tradition but, above all, in the people who live there.

Zosia and Hania – thank you!