AREAS: consular cooperation • tourism • Slovenian community

Home that travels: Tamara Gorenc and the power of Slovenian roots

Slovenian roots

The story of Tamara Gorenc is a story of roots that remain alive even thousands of kilometers away. Her family comes from the Dolenjska region, from the village Vavta Vas, located between Novo Mesto and Dolenjske Toplice, a landscape that Tamara still carries deeply within her. In their home, holidays always began with soup and potica, with Slovenian as the only language of everyday life, and with a sense of belonging that never faded.

Slovenian identity

Tamara did not learn English at home, but only when she started school. She grew up in an environment where Slovenian identity was taken for granted, yet deeply cherished. “I have always been aware of my heritage,” she says. “My mother carried Slovenia in her heart and taught us to live the way she lived at home, with respect for family, tradition, and community.” This upbringing shaped not only her character, but also the values she now passes on to her children, from the language they speak to the food they prepare.

Connection to Slovenia

Her connection to Slovenia has never been broken. Visits to her homeland are a regular part of her life, and twice a year she returns to her family, the landscape, and the people who form her identity. Through these ties, she has also connected over the years with many Slovenians and Slovenian-American communities. “There is always room in my heart for a new Slovenian friend,” she says.

Professional path

Her love for Slovenia has also strongly influenced her professional path. As a travel agent, she found a way to turn her natural curiosity and openness to other cultures into a vocation. “Slovenia taught me how important it is to understand people and their stories,” she says. “That is why I have always been drawn to work that connects the world.”

A bridge between Slovenia and the United States

Today, as the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Slovenia in Colorado, Tamara embodies a bridge between Slovenia and the United States. She sees how positive Slovenia’s image is in the U.S., from world-class athletes to successful entrepreneurs, all united by an exceptional work ethic and perseverance, qualities she recognizes as deeply Slovenian.

Message to younger generations

Her message to younger generations is simple and powerful: never forget who you are. Keep the language, traditions, and stories that connect you to Slovenia alive. Roots are not something that holds you back, but something that gives you the strength to stand tall in the world.