Every woman who has decided to follow the voice of her heart deserves to be heard. That’s the essence of the new book “Through Obstacles to the Stars”, created by entrepreneur and coach Kamila Paličková. This unique project brings together 36 inspiring stories from women across the globe and shows that every obstacle can become a gateway to profound transformation.
The book is the result of an international collaboration of women from Europe, Africa, America, Australia, and Asia. Featured contributors include:
- Kamila Paličková (Global Coach of the Year 2025, Czech Republic)
- Yvette Hlaváčová (Top Czech long-distance swimmer, Czech Republic)
- Lerato Sithole (Partner at Deloitte, South Africa)
- Karen Weaver (Author and philosopher, Ireland/Australia)
- Nguyen Bao Tram (Manager and founder of a foundation for orphans in Vietnam, Vietnam/Finland)
- Tumi Lebaka (Manager, Presidential Award recipient, South Africa), and many other women with extraordinary life journeys.
Each story is accompanied by the values and principles that helped the authors navigate their own inner transformation.
Book Launch Celebration: An Evening Under the Stars Connecting Art and the Female Voice
When: July 23, 2025, at 17:00
Where: Náprstkovo Museum, Prague, Czech Republic
We warmly invite you to a unique cultural evening under the open sky, combining literature, music, dance, and women’s voices from all over the world. The event will feature some of the authors and special guests from the diplomatic community.
What to expect:
- A musical performance by NOZIZWE, who collaborates with Nelson Mandela’s granddaughter
- An art exhibition featuring works by April Popko, Yaka Sales Huni Kuin, Rita Huni Kuin, and Tereza Janíková Gondková
- A visionary dance performance by Ivana Kolcunová
- Inspirational talks, a glass of wine, shared stories, and an authentic atmosphere in the heart of Prague
Limited Edition: More Than a Book
For lovers of true collectible art, a limited edition of the book (only 300 copies) is also available:
- Each copy is numbered and signed
- Includes a transformational ritual and exclusive content
- Comes with a collector’s slipcover
- Created for women and men who believe books have a soul
A Word from Author Kamila Paličková
“If I had to choose three words that define this project, they would be: uniqueness, respect, and celebration of life. I believe each of us is an irreplaceable part of this world and carries a unique purpose. This book is a reminder of that value—a personal tribute to women who deserve to shine.”
Kamila Paličková, book author
More Female Voices from the Book:
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If you had to choose three key words that describe this project, what would they be – and why?
Stanislava Kratochvílová: “Three words that describe the book: courage, inspiration, journey. I’m grateful to be part of a book where women openly share their most personal experiences. That’s where the greatest strength lies – we can inspire and support one”
Stanislava Kratochvílová, book author
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If you had to choose three key words that describe this project, what would they be – and why?
Kamila Paličková: “Each of us is part of the beautiful miracle of life. This book is a reminder that every being matters and every woman carries unique value. It is a celebration of courage, inner strength, and the diversity of women who often face immense challenges in silence.”
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What motivated you to contribute to this book?
Lisa Benson: “It was an honour to be invited to contribute to this book. Collaborating with such incredible women – united by the book’s powerful theme – was an opportunity for me to share a story to increase awareness of insidious abuse.“
„My hope is that the women reading my chapter will feel empowered in their relationships. Many of us spend way too much time worrying about threats from strangers and intruders, but in reality, there are many women around the world who are fearful of the partner who sleeps right beside them. When we share our own vulnerable stories we help others feel less alone, which subsequently helps to reduce shame, initiate change and begin shifting outdated cultural patterns.“
Lisa Benson
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What would you say to your younger self?
Gita Hassmannová: “True strength lies in the courage to begin. Don’t wait for the perfect time – the moment is now. Success doesn’t come without doubt, but dreams don’t disappear. They wait for you to start chasing them again.”
Gita Hassmann
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What motivated you to contribute to this book?
April Popko: “The timing was perfect. It felt like a sign to start sharing my story… like a whisper I had always heard but ignored. I accepted the challenge because it aligns with my own book which I’m currently writing – a project I’ve been working on most of my life, alongside my artwork.“
„People underestimate me all the time. They may see me as a mom, a wife, a teacher, an artist, a businesswoman, a friend, or just a gal making her way in a foreign country. They notice things I’ve accomplished and wonder where all the motivation and energy come from. I’m a regular person who works hard, takes risks and creates opportunities that have shaped my life, allowed me to travel, and be part of special communities and events. For this I am very grateful, and to pay it forward, I decided to use the book as another bridge to connect with others in hopes to inspire them on their own journeys.“
Where to Get the Book and Tickets for the Launch Event?
You can learn more about the book, the women’s stories, and get tickets for the celebration evening at: https://zijsveposlani.cz/rise-and-shine/objednavka-krest-knihy/](https://zijsveposlani.cz/rise-and-shine/objednavka-krest-knihy/
Expect more than just reading. This is a journey. And perhaps, the beginning of yours.
