As the new publisher of Arvada Lifestyle, Mirka Penn brings fresh ideas and a renewed sense of purpose to the magazine. “What excites me most is the opportunity to truly help people — to support local businesses, highlight meaningful stories, and build something that brings value to the community,” shares Mirka. “On a personal level, it’s incredibly fulfilling to do work that aligns with my values and to build something my family can feel proud of.”
Born and raised in Slovakia, Mirka has resided in the US for more than two decades, ten of those living in Colorado. “From the beginning, Colorado felt like home to me,” she says. “The changing seasons, the mountains, and the outdoor lifestyle reminded me so much of where I grew up. I love skiing and exploring nature, and the mountains have always been my sanctuary.”
Upon moving to Colorado, Mirka learned that the state has more mountains that peak at over 14,000 feet than any other state. This ignited a spark of challenge for Mirka, and she set out to achieve a lofty goal. “I remember telling my friend, a Coloradan, that I wanted to climb eight of them in one summer. He thought that was too ambitious,” Mirka explains. “I never said it out loud, but I decided to do it anyway. That summer, I climbed eight 14ers — some of them entirely on my own. I started early in the mornings, carefully researched routes and weather, and followed through. That experience truly describes who I am: when I’m presented with a challenge and believe it’s achievable, I fully commit and see it through.”
For Mirka, family is the epicenter of her life. She and her husband, Ryan, have three daughters and they enjoy spending time together. “Alongside our family life, my husband and I share many passions, from traveling and skiing to taking on home projects together,” she says. “We love building, renovating, and designing homes, and creating things side by side. We are truly best friends—able to share anything with one another—and that partnership is at the heart of everything we do.”
From the moment Mirka joined the Arvada community, she understood why so many people love to call this area home. “I’m meeting incredible people and families every day — people with big hearts who truly care about giving back and supporting one another — and I’m honored to become part of this community,” says Mirka. “It’s clear that people truly enjoy living in Arvada and feel connected to it in a meaningful way. That sense of belonging and loyalty reminds me very much of Slovakia and the way communities are rooted there.”
It is that deep sense of connection and community that Mirka believes is at the heart of Arvada Lifestyle. “For me, community involvement means supporting local businesses not only through storytelling, but through action, by choosing local vendors, venues, and partners whenever possible, as well as bringing people together with events, supporting local businesses, and sharing uplifting stories,” shares Mirka. “My hope is to create something thoughtful, inspiring, and meaningful — a publication that reflects the heart of this community. I can’t wait to meet our readers, hear their stories, and continue growing alongside them. I’m honored and humbled that this role came into my life and to be part of this community.”
As you see Mirka and get to know her better, say hello and let her know what you love most about Arvada and your favorite parts of reading Arvada Lifestyle each month!