Prague study tour empowers business students with renewed commitment to social innovation

Understanding social issues

To grasp an understanding of the local issues in Prague, the students participated in an exclusive workshop organised by Pragulic, a social enterprise that offers unique city experiences through the lens of homelessness. During the workshop, Pragulic’s founder, Ms Tereza Jureckova, shared her aspirations and challenges in establishing Pragulic, inspiring the students to become agents of change. The students also joined a walking tour led by a homeless guide, who had experienced homelessness in Prague for nine years, offering poignant insights into the realities of urban life. This unique experience encouraged the students to reflect on how to drive positive social change through business.

Ms Tereza Jureckova, Founder & CEO of Pragulic, shared her ups and downs in the journey of establishing Pragulic.

The homeless tour guide, Roman (middle), talked about his story of living in Prague as a homeless and how he was determined to improve his life by working at Pragulic.

Learning the business and history

The group participated in workshops hosted by Light in the Dark s.r.o. and Prague Feminist Tours, learning about their founding stories and how they thrived in the post-pandemic recession. Through guided city walks, the students gained a dual perspective on Prague’s rich history, examining how the 18th-century bubonic plague alongside its feminist movements have shaped the city.

The tour guide, Thomas (middle), explained the history of the Black Death and showed our students the use of the plague doctor mask.

Mr David Merten, CEO of Light in the Dark s.r.o. and Nightwatchman of Prague, introduced our students to how he established the company during the hardship.

Ms Averil Huck, Founder and Guide of Prague Feminist Tours (right), shared the history of women's emancipation in Prague while exploring the centre of the old town.

Averil shared her personal experiences as a social entrepreneur in Prague.

The journey extended to a company visit to METRANS, a.s., where they had a glimpse of how logistics connects the world through sustainable practices. At Impact Hub Praha, the students learned how the organisation supports new social entrepreneurs with customised business models.

The terminal visit at METRANS, a.s. was an eye-opening experience.

Mr Martin Koubek, Director – Silk Road & CIS at METRANS, a.s. (third from the left), introduced the global operations and services that METRANS, a.s. has been offering to their customers.

Ms Kateřina Zvěřinová, Community Manager of Impact Hub Praha (middle), showed students around the co-working space at Impact Hub Praha.

Students presented their business ideas during the workshop offered by Impact Hub Praha.

Sightseeing and exclusive experiences

They also visited the non-profit organisation Penthea, z.s., where they learned the art of falconry and gained insights into animal rescue. Before the year came to a close, they celebrated the New Year’s Eve in Kutná Hora and visited historical sites such as St. Barbara’s Church and the Sedlec Ossuary.

As the study tour concluded, participants returned with lasting memories and a renewed commitment to contribute to their communities through social innovation.

Peter, Founder of Penthea z.s., introduced the art of falconry and showcased their works at animal rescue.

A hands-on and unforgettable experience at Penthea, z.s.

Sightseeing at the medieval town of Kutná Hora