Severina Lajtman is a talented Croatian actress who has emerged as a prominent figure in the arts, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes associated with the Roma community. Born and raised in the Roma settlement of Piškorovec in Međimurje County, Severina's journey from a marginalized community to the national stage is both inspiring and transformative.

Growing up in Piškorovec, Severina faced challenges common to many Roma children, such as limited access to quality education and social prejudice. She attended an elementary school for Roma students, and due to her initial lack of proficiency in the Croatian language, she had to repeat the first grade. However, her potential was soon recognized by a dedicated teacher who mentored her for the Lidrano competitions — a national festival focused on literary, dramatic, and journalistic expression. Severina’s efforts paid off as she won the national Lidrano competitions for three consecutive years.

With the support of the ROM HR organization, the State Ministry and the Desa and Jerko Foundation, Severina secured a full scholarship to attend one of the best secondary schools in Zagreb. This opportunity marked a significant turning point in her life, allowing her to pursue her passion for art in a more conducive environment.

Severina starred in the play PogledajMe (eng. Look at me) directed by Roman Nikolić. The play sheds light on the lives of young Roma in Croatia, highlighting the discrimination that Roma often face. In this play Severina portrays her own experiences, offering the audience an authentic insight into the challenges and resilience of the Roma community.

In addition to her theatrical work, Severina has made her mark in Croatian cinema with roles in the series Sram (eng. Shame) (2024) and Sjene Prošlosti (eng. Shadows of the Past) (2024). Demonstrating her commitment to continuous development, Severina enrolled in the Academy of Dramatic Arts in Zagreb, becoming the first Roma woman to do so. She expressed her desire for a future in which the educational achievements of Roma children would be normalized.

In addition, Severina became the first Roma woman to grace the cover of the Croatian edition of Elle magazine. This milestone not only marks her personal success but also represents a broader shift towards inclusivity, which breaks down stereotypes about Roma women. Her story serves as an inspiration that challenges societal norms, paving the way for future generations of Roma youth to follow their dreams.