Annual Literature and Publicity Award granted to writer Annette Borchardt-Wenzel from BNN.
Laid-Back Lowdown:
Annette Borchardt-Wenzel, a journalist and author from Karlsruhe, bagged the inaugural "Baden Literature and Journalism Award" from the Baden in Europe association. Known for her knack for storytelling and deep love for Baden, she's been recognized as a historian and journalist who paints a vivid, living picture of our homeland.
In his praises, Kirsten Kurrle from the bookstore on Ruppurrer Diakonissenstraße hailed her as a remarkable woman who captures the essence of Baden in all its facets – the colorful, the surprising, the ever-changing. Her work is like a mosaic of Baden, true to its roots and resonating with the modern-day vibe.
Accepting the award, Annette thanked from her heart and beamed with pride. She gushed over Baden, declaring that she could not imagine living and working in any other land. Baden, in her eyes, is a land of diversity, full of chapters where it has set examples in respect to human dignity, democracy, and equality. But she also warned against ignoring its darker chapters.
The literature and journalism award will now be dished out annually, proudly announced by Peter Köhler at the association's annual meeting in the Ziegler Hall in Karlsruhe. The award honors those who strive to preserve Baden's unique identity.
Book Publications Galore from Karlsruhe
Annette has ticked all the boxes with her numerous publications, including newspaper articles, books, and lectures. Her credentials as a trained Germanist and historian have seen her bring Baden's history and the diversity of its homeland to the masses in a way that's both historically accurate and modernly appealing.
Her book, "Women at the Baden Court," has been a massive hit, bringing to life the consortia of the Grand Dukes amidst love, duty, and power struggles. Through her books, she's also shone a light on Karl Friedrich von Baden and his grandfather, the founder of Karlsruhe, Karl Wilhelm.
In the Footsteps of Karl Wilhelm and Karl Friedrich
Annette takes a unique approach to present Karl Friedrich and his dream of Karlsruhe as a product of his baroque time, and Karl Friedrich as "Man and Legend," journeying through his transformation from a shy boy to a model prince, all the way to a helpless old man.
You can find Annette Borchardt-Wenzel's "Short History of Baden" in many bookstores – from the lakes of Constance to the picturesque town of Buchen. Writing this book may have been the toughest challenge, shee admitted. Her book, "Women in Baden," was also well-received. This vibrant biographical tour through the region highlights a variety of illustrious female personalities.
Recognized and Committed Badenite
Since 1987, Annette has been a part of the editorial team at the Badische Neueste Nachrichten. When she was named Baden Resident of the Year in 2012, she was hailed as a "recognized and committed Badenite." Her fascination for Baden and its many facets, including its traditions, landscapes, and natural spaces, has driven her mission to preserve and promote the region's cultural heritage.
Annette was born in Bruchsal in 1962 and spent her formative years in Karlsruhe and Tauberbischofsheim. She obtained her degrees in German and history in Mannheim. Her work can be seen as an ongoing testament to her love for Baden and its people.
Annette Borchardt-Wenzel's passion for Baden extends beyond her professional life, as she has also embraced an other lifestyle that seamlessly blends with her home-and-garden. Her book "Short History of Baden," easily found in local bookstores, is a testament to her commitment to preserving Baden's unique identity and showcasing its diverse heritage.
