Petronela Zilik
My name is Petronela Zilik, and I have a remarkable story of resilience and recovery. I grew up in foster care homes in Slovakia, where I faced sexual and other forms of abuse that left me with significant mental health challenges. I also struggled with the lack of parental support and guidance.
Choose to Never Give Up
Book
Abandoned as a baby, rejected as a child, and beaten by those who were supposed to care for her, Petronela’s story is one of unimaginable pain and unwavering hope. In this raw and deeply personal journey, Petronela shares how she endured abuse, rejection, and loneliness while holding on to a fragile belief that life could be better.
Through the darkness, she searched for love, belonging, and purpose. When all seemed lost, she discovered strength she did not know she had and a love greater than anything she had ever known.
Choose to Never Give Up is more than a story of survival. It is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of hope. For anyone who feels forgotten, broken, or unloved, this book is a reminder:
You are not alone. You are not rejected. There is hope, and your story is not over yet.
The Vision
My vision is to create a world where survivors of domestic violence, both children and adults, find not just safety but also healing, empowerment, and joy. Through art, music, dance, and therapy, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where every person can express their pain, rediscover their strengths, and rebuild their lives.
I believe that no one should walk the difficult road of recovery alone. My purpose is to stand alongside survivors, offering them guidance, compassion, and opportunities to thrive. I envision a community where love, understanding, and genuine care replace isolation, shame, and fear.
With my charity Petronela’s Hope, I strive to inspire individuals to believe in themselves, embrace their talents, and realise that it is never too late to start anew. Together, we can transform pain into passion and suffering into strength, building a future full of possibilities, dignity, and hope for every person who needs it."
