Danube-Swabian Cultural Prize Recipients Revealed

Johann Schuth, a Hungarian-German journalist, has been a pillar of the Donauschabian cultural scene for over five decades. He founded several influential organizations, including the Hungarian-German Cultural Society (Deutsch-Ungarische Kulturgemeinschaft), the Association of Hungarian-German Authors and Artists (1990), and the Club of German-Writing Authors (1972). Currently, Schuth continues to lead the Hungarian-German Cultural Society as its chairman.

Throughout his career, Schuth has organized numerous readings and exhibitions, both in Germany and abroad, promoting Donauschwabian history and culture. His dedication to the cause was recognised with the honorary award for the 2025 Baden-Württemberg State Donauschwabian Culture Prize.

Another notable figure in the Donauschwabian community is Professor Dr. Anton Sterbling. Known for his comprehensive and diverse work in both literature and science, Sterbling was awarded the main prize for the 2025 Baden-Württemberg State Donauschwabian Culture Prize. His anthologies on flight and forced labor, featuring Donauschwabians sharing their experiences, have been translated into Romanian by Sterbling himself.

Sterbling is also a co-founder of the literary group "Aktionsgruppe Banat." His prose and poetry frequently explore themes of the Donauschwabian way of life, making a significant contribution to the preservation and understanding of this unique culture.

Meanwhile, Denise Schillinger, publishing under the pseudonym Pia Varjas, has also made a mark in the Donauschwabian literary world. Her work, "Who Needs Ribisel?", published in 2024, won the promotion prize. Schillinger aims to reach younger people through social media to keep awareness of Donauschwabian history and culture alive.

The solemn award ceremony for the Baden-Württemberg State Donauschwabian Culture Prize will take place on November 7, 2025, at the House of Donauschwaben in Sindelfingen. The ceremony promises to be a celebration of the rich history and vibrant culture of the Donauschwabian community, honoring the contributions of individuals like Johann Schuth, Anton Sterbling, and Denise Schillinger.

Danube-Swabian Cultural Prize Recipients Revealed