Danube-Swabian Cultural Prize awards bestowed upon recipients
Three Distinguished Writers Honoured with Donauschwabian Cultural Prizes
The cultural scene in Baden-Württemberg is buzzing with excitement as three distinguished authors have been awarded the Donauschwabian Cultural Prize for their exceptional contributions to literature and culture.
Professor Dr. Anton Sterbling, publishing under the name Anton Sterling, has been granted the main prize for his work. Known for his anthologies published by the Landsmannschaft and the Democratic Forum of Germans in Romania, Sterling's work has addressed themes of the Donauschwabian way of life throughout his prolific career. Not only has he translated works into Romanian, but he has also published prose and poetry, and his work as a university professor, author, and editor of anthologies on expulsion and forced labor has been widely recognised.
Denise Schillinger, publishing under the pseudonym Pia Varjas, has won the promotion prize for her debut novel "Who Needs Redcurrants Anyway?". This novel paints an impression of Donauschwabian history and the relationships of Donauschwabians with their neighbours, making it a significant contribution to the preservation of Donauschwabian culture. Schillinger aims to reach younger people through social media to keep the awareness of Donauschwabian history and culture alive.
Johann Schuth, a founding member of the Community of Young Hungarian Germans (1989) and the founder of the Association of Hungarian-German Authors and Artists (1990), is the recipient of an honorary award for his contributions. Schuth has been actively involved in the Hungarian-German cultural scene for over 55 years, having organised numerous readings and exhibitions in Germany and abroad. He is also the founding chairman of the Club of German-Writing Authors (1972). While specific details about Schuth's work are not provided, his impact on the cultural scene is undeniable.
The solemn award ceremony for the 2025 Donauschwabian Cultural Prize will take place on November 7, 2025, at the House of Danube Swabians in Sindelfingen. The honorary award for Johann Schuth is endowed with 2,500 euros.
These awards not only celebrate the achievements of these three writers but also serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting Donauschwabian culture and history. The work of these authors will undoubtedly continue to inspire and educate future generations.
