A story by Nina Begesh, a communications and administration professional and a holder of the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship. Nina is of Hungarian origin on her father’s side and she has been living in Hungary since 2023. She strongly identifies with Hungarian culture, traditions, and values, and supports the mission of Hungarian communities across borders to preserve cultural identity and build meaningful connections within the global Hungarian network.

I learned about the Hungarian origin of my family very late in life, already as an adult, and almost by accident. We began researching our family history in order to create a family tree, and during this process we discovered that all of my ancestors on my father’s side were Hungarian. They had lived in Transcarpathia. This discovery became a turning point for me.

After learning this, it became very important for me to understand my roots more deeply — the language, the culture, and the traditions of my ancestors. While searching for opportunities to reconnect with my heritage, I discovered the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship Program. I decided to apply, and I was incredibly happy when I received the scholarship. That decision changed my life in many ways.

At first, it was frightening to leave behind the life I had built. I had a career, stability, and familiar surroundings. But the call of my roots and the desire to discover where I truly came from turned out to be stronger than fear. I packed two suitcases and flew to Hungary, not knowing whether the country and its society would accept me, or whether I would feel at home here.

I arrived in Budapest, moved into a dormitory, and became a student again. I enrolled in the Master’s program International Public Service Relations at the University of Public Service (Nemzeti Közszolgálati Egyetem). I truly enjoyed my studies, but what shaped me just as much were the long walks after classes, when I explored the city and slowly began to feel its rhythm.

I clearly remember one of my first days in Budapest. I was sitting on the bank of the Danube, admiring the beauty of the city, when I suddenly felt something very strong and unexpected: I felt good, calm, and happy. For the first time, I sensed that I truly liked being here and that I wanted to become a real part of this country. These feelings have stayed with me ever since.

Because we discovered our Hungarian roots so late, I only began learning the Hungarian language after moving to Hungary. Hungarian is a difficult language, but it is also very beautiful. I strongly believe that truly understanding Hungary is only possible through the language — being able to speak freely, on any topic, with anyone. I am very grateful that I now have the opportunity to master the Hungarian language step by step.

During my studies, my life took another unexpected and beautiful turn: I met my husband, who is Hungarian. Today, we live in the town of Etyek, and we are raising our young son together. He is Hungarian by origin and by citizenship, and our family lives in a Hungarian linguistic and cultural environment.

Looking back, I can say with certainty that Hungary is my home. It is the place where my roots, my present, and my future have come together — and the place where my family lives.