The School was shocked and deeply saddened to learn that former SSEES student and activist Monika Silva Koniuszek was tragically killed in Ecuador on 8 June.
Monika studied at SSEES between 2007 and 2011, completing a BA in Russian and Czech. An outstanding student, she received several academic prizes and was named to the Dean’s List.
Monika had a deep love of Russian and Soviet cinema and took every available module in this area while at SSEES.
Originally from Poland, Monika went on to build her life in Ecuador, where she became an environmental activist. As a multilingual activist, she led the organisation Fundación La Integridad, which worked to highlight the links between environmental damage and high-level corruption.
We extend our sincere condolences to Monika’s family and friends. She leaves behind two young children.
A fundraiser has been established to support her children.
Monika while on her year abroad, next to a poster for the 1934 film Chapaev.