SLOVENIA'S 5 CORE VALUES

She is the Queen of Hearts, whose name is Marjeta Mlakar.

In a world where bonds are often loosening and communities are falling apart, there is a family called
O-Family. It is not just a group of people, it is a movement of kindness, compassion and mutual support, proving that the power of connection is alive and well. We are not related by blood, but we are bound together by the values we live every day: caring for others, helping others in need, respect, harmony and sincere belonging. Among other things, the O-Family provides godparenting for children in Rwanda. Its strength lies not only in its actions, but in the way its members follow each other, listen to each other, support each other and grow together.

Simply put: we feel for each other, we complement each other, we meet here and there, we have fun and we love each other just the way we are. We are simple souls without pretence or pretense. We are simply US. Because we want to be and because we have chosen these situations.

Belonging to this family is a gift. It is the feeling of being part of something bigger; of the Word resonating, of every heart beating to the rhythm of community. And when we gather like this as members of this big family, we gather souls who know why we are together - to build bridges, to create a better future, to write stories of belonging, to be guided by a common thread; a desire to show the world that we can make a difference.

Marjeta is the person who, like a magnet, knits the bonds between us. Her strength is not in words, but in her silent example; in her sincerity and in her ability to listen and connect. Her love for her primary family is endless, but she loves her second family just as deeply - us, the O-Family. And we return that love in equal measure. She is the strongest link in our community, she is the one who leads by example. She stands at the centre, not as a leader, but as the heart.

The end of a warm September day was marked by an event that went beyond the usual celebration - it became a symbol of togetherness, respect and heartfelt belonging.

Marjeta, Meti, as we call her, surprised us by inviting us to celebrate her round jubilee. Her invitation was heartfelt, sincere and touching, as she wrote that she was waiting for us, who warm her heart, and wanted to celebrate life with us.

The Marietta celebration was undoubtedly the event of the year. Her celebration was perfect, fairytale-like, full of emotions, warmth, smiling faces, wide hugs, happy songs and indescribable energy. Words cannot describe the whole atmosphere. The celebration was not just a birthday party, but an expression of deep gratitude and friendship.

Our gatherings carry a stamp that is visible to the world, as we share glimpses, messages and moments that testify that we are a community with a mission.

Marjeta let us know that we are her family. The name O-Family is not a coincidence, but a chosen name that we have justified with every vote, with every glance and with every heartbeat.

Bernarda Jenko, 6. 10. 2025