Meet the Innovator: Eva Holzova, Brno City – Smart Cities and Inclusive Growth
In a recent interview with Eva Holzova, Smart City Projects and Event Manager at Brno City Municipality, I delved into an insightful discussion that redefines smart cities as more than just technological advancements. Eva’s perspective illuminated how inclusive growth, community engagement, and practical urban solutions play pivotal roles in shaping smarter, more connected cities. Our conversation touched on the challenges and opportunities that modern urban planners face, offering a vision that prioritizes citizen well-being and meaningful innovation.
Smart Cities: More Than Just Technology
Eva’s journey and role at Brno’s Strategic Development and Cooperation Department encompass far more than technological advancements. “We often think of smart cities as data-driven ecosystems filled with sensors and AI,” she remarked. “However, a truly smart city is one where people’s needs are prioritized—it’s a city where you want to live.” This shift from viewing technology as the main driver to understanding it as a supportive tool aligns closely with Brno’s objective of becoming a livable, inclusive, and well-connected urban space.
Brno’s Strategic Growth: The Balance of Innovation and Humanity
Brno, a city historically known for its textile and industrial roots, has embraced a path towards becoming an innovative hub focusing on sectors such as IT, cybersecurity, game industry, and microscopy. Eva highlighted that fostering these industries is essential for economic sustainability and attracting talent. Yet, she pointed out that technological integration should serve the human experience, not dominate it. “Sometimes, the smartest move is knowing when not to use technology,” she said, emphasizing that prioritizing human interaction and the quality of public life are central to Brno’s approach.
Photo credit https://data.brnoregion.com/en/
Women in Tech: Bridging the Gap
A notable part of our discussion touched upon gender representation in urban planning and technology. Eva’s passion for supporting diversity is evident. “Women make up approximately 10% of the IT workforce in the Czech Republic,” she noted, “but their perspectives and inputs are crucial.” She champions initiatives such as partnerships with NGOs like Czechitas, aiming to bring more women into IT in the Czech Republic. Her call for inclusivity resonates with the idea that a well-rounded urban strategy must represent the voices of different genders, ages, and social backgrounds.
Citizen Engagement and the Role of Social Media
When asked about involving citizens in smart city projects, Eva was clear: engagement is essential and can start from educational initiatives. The ‘Brno ID’ municipal service e-shop are practical tools that connect citizens with local governance. “It’s about making services accessible and intuitive,” she explained. For her, social media is an underutilized tool that municipalities could leverage to reach younger demographics and foster active community participation.
The Metaverse and Future Urban Planning
Our conversation took an intriguing turn when discussing the Urban Metaverse & Smart Cities event. Despite the technological focus, Eva found value in the diverse viewpoints and inclusive discussions. She shared an innovative idea born from the event: using the metaverse to showcase Brno’s core industries – cybersecurity, gaming, space, and microscopy. “Imagine exploring space technology or the invisible world of microscopy through a virtual experience,” she proposed. While acknowledging her concerns about the metaverse replacing real human connections, Eva sees potential if used thoughtfully.
Reflections on AI: Opportunities and Ethical Dilemmas
Eva and I also touched on the rapid rise of AI and its implications. “AI learns with our data,” she remarked, noting that biases arise from its predominantly male-driven training. Yet, she remains hopeful that with more female participation in tech, these systems can reflect more balanced perspectives. We both agreed that while AI holds great potential, it must be harnessed responsibly to ensure it serves as an aid—not an overpowering force.
A Global Perspective with Local Roots
Eva’s vision for Brno’s future is one of balance—promoting regional innovation while avoiding monopolization and excessive technological dependence. “The key is sustainable growth,” she said. From mobility and energy to waste and water management, Brno is working on integrated solutions that prioritize regional development over centralized, mega-city models. In a world increasingly driven by technology, Eva’s insights remind us of the value of simplicity, inclusivity, and human-centric urban development. The “smart” in smart cities is not solely in their
infrastructure but in their ability to create environments where everyone – from a young student to an elderly resident – can thrive. Brno’s story is a testament to how cities can aim for technological progress without losing sight of their most vital component: the people.
