Ildikó Török
Executive Director
torok.ildiko@romaversitas.hu

I studied Sociology and Minority Policy at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), followed by a Master’s degree in Public Policy at Central European University (CEU). Alongside my academic journey—and ever since—I have navigated my path as a Roma woman, a mother, and a professional, proudly embracing my dual identity. For more than a decade, I have worked on issues affecting Roma communities across both the public and civil society sectors, in Hungary and internationally. Most recently, I led the Roma Programme at the Tom Lantos Institute for six years.

It is both an honour and a great responsibility to lead an organisation that was founded on the bold vision of Roma intellectuals and that, in 2026, will celebrate 30 years of supporting Roma students on their journey towards education, self-confidence, and a strong sense of identity.

I believe that meaningful social change begins from within—when Roma students recognise that their own stories have value, that their identity is a source of strength, and that their community is a driving force for their future.

In my view, lasting social change requires knowledge, identity, and community. This is exactly what Romaversitas offers young Roma people. We strive to create an environment where the “Romver identity” is more than just a phrase—it is a genuine sense of belonging, where Romaversitas becomes a second home and a second family: a place from which students can confidently set out into the world and to which they will always be welcome to return.

My goal is clear: to build a safe, courageous, and sustainable Romaversitas where the circumstances of one’s birth never determine the opportunities of one’s future.