About Us
Santikaram Association Slovakia
is a non-profit association interested in the cultures, values, philosophy and religion of Southeast Asian countries, aiming on a sustainable, naturally balanced and peaceful life.
The aim of Santikaram Association Slovakia is to promote and support the cultures of Southeast Asia, their values and cultural and philosophical richness in Central Europe on two levels – in the form of activities aimed at European society and in the form of direct and targeted support of immigrants from Southeast Asia. Through its activities, Santikaram Association Slovakia promotes a healthy lifestyle in accordance with the principles of sustainable development and with the regard to the preservation of natural resources, as well as with the respect for fundamental human rights and strengthening the integration of immigrants into society in all relevant dimensions.
Santikaram Association Slovakia is a legal entity registered under the Ministry of Interior of the Slovak Republic on 7th July 2022, with official ID 54681294.
Board of Directors
Ven. Mgr. Sati Santikaro Thera
Founder and Chairman
Venerable Sati Santikaro is a graduated teacher and a Theravada Buddhist monk ordained in the Burmese and Thai monastic traditions. After 15 years of serious training in the monastic order and traveling around the countries of Southeast Asia, Bhante decided to return to his native region in Central Europe where he established Santikaram Association Slovakia and Santikaram Forest Temple.
The monastic name Sati Santikaro can be translated as "Mindful Peacemaker". And it is precisely these two wholesome qualities of mind – peace and mindfulness – that Bhante constantly develops and that he teaches the others.
+421 950 411 159
Mgr. Patrícia Petríková
Vice-chairman
Patrícia studied international relations at the University of Prague and planned to live and work in politics abroad.
However, with the arrival of her first child, she decided to return to her native Žilina. Here, after four years, she became a mother of two. She runs a small family e-shop Mucinkovo with children's products. She is also the administrator of social networks in the association.
In her free time, she enjoys walks in nature, quality literature, and meditation. When time allows, she likes to visit the Santikaram Forest Temple, which is a true oasis of peace and joy for her.
+421 903 806 568
Ing. Adam Výbošťok
Member of the Board of Directors
Adam is a professional pilot who graduated from the University of Prague with a degree in Air transport operation. His investigative mind and interest in the wisdom of life brought him to the Forest Temple. Of all the paths, he likes the Eightfold path the most, and of all the meditations, the insight meditation appeals to him the most.
Friendly, willing to help at all times, showing support to everyone. Conscientious, with an eye for detail. A friend of cats and a music enthusiast from the 80s and 90s. Adam is also the coordinator of volunteer activities in our association. He will be happy to answer all your questions regarding volunteering or planned projects.
+421 949 634 326
Ing. Veronika Maurerová
Member of the Board of Directors
Veronika comes from Czech Republic, where she has been working in the IT field. In addition to programming, she also devotes herself to meditation and self-development. Her persistent steps on the path of knowledge brought her to Slovakia and subsequently to our forest temple. Since then, she has been patiently perfecting kindness, compassion, as well as other virtues. She does not hesitate to use the wonderful energy from the temple to spread the wisdom all around. Family, meeting with friends, or talking about the Dhamma also bring her a lot of joy. She makes the reconstruction of an old farmhouse more enjoyable by gardening. She loves rain and warm hugs.
+420 608 281 109
Zuzana Leppová Hlaváčová
Member of the Board of Directors
Zuzka graduated from the hotel academy, but she found her meaning in life only a few years later at the social services facility. She was so excited by the work at the social services facility that she decided to study social work at the university in the capital city.
She truly loves her work and keeps doing it with all her heart. She is always ready to offer love and understanding to people who really need it.
With her immense compassion, she can enlighten the way for those who are already leaving this world. Zuzka is an attentive listener and a kind companion. Santikaram Forest Temple is her second home.
+421 918 965 795
Ing. Helena Pohanková
Auditor
Helena is an accountant with wide range of experiences and skills. She has been providing her economic services to companies and entrepreneurs for many years. In addition to managing the accounting of our association, she also oversees that its management and activities are in accordance with the statutes and set goals.
Anyone who wants to see her skills should come and see her Easter eggs. These beautiful eggs ornated with the traditional scratching technique decorate many tables in Slovakia and in other countries as well. Growing orchids, gardening or listening to the singing of spring birds are the best relaxation for her.
+421 910 226 995