A personal story that offers hope for a new beginning

On November 11, 2026, two discussions were held at the prison for juveniles in Sučany with Jan Eriksen, the author of the book I Lived in the Underworld.

The introduction was given by Felix Ceccato, a Swiss police officer, who complemented the author's story with his own extensive professional experience. Subsequently, during both discussions, Jan Eriksen spoke openly about his past, a period when his life was intertwined with the underworld, wrong decisions, and personal failures. He presented his story without sugarcoating it and showed those present what consequences poor life choices can have, but also that a person does not have to remain a prisoner of their own past.

The first discussion took place with a group of male sentenced prisoners and juvenile males. The second meeting was dedicated to female sentenced prisoners. In both cases, the participants had the opportunity to hear the personal testimony of someone who had experienced many negative and dangerous situations firsthand, often with tragic or even fatal consequences. His own life could have ended quite differently, but despite everything, he received an opportunity for change, which he decided to seize and embark on a new life path.

An important part of his narrative was the message of faith, forgiveness, and hope. Eriksen emphasized that regardless of a person's past, there is always a possibility to decide on a different path. His words pointed to the importance of taking responsibility for one's own life, the willingness to change, and finding a new sense of purpose in life.

Both discussions provided space for reflection on one's own life choices, values, and future. The guest's personal story showed that even after difficult life experiences, a person can find a path toward positive change.

The meetings with Jan Eriksen were primarily a reminder that although the past cannot be changed, the future can be influenced by one's own decisions. Every person deserves a chance for a new beginning, and it is never too late to set out on the path of change.