Ralf Novak Rosengren, a musician and author with roots in Småland, received the prize for his efforts to keep the traveler culture alive over many years. According to SVT Småland, Ralf Novak Rosengren described feeling overwhelmed and stunned by the recognition, stating he did not believe it initially. The winners in several categories were selected by viewers through a special program from SVT's 'Sverige Romani med Barbi' that aired on the Roma national day.
The specific contributions Rosengren made to preserve the culture, along with other categories and winners from the program, have not been detailed publicly. Additionally, the exact air date of the special program and the date of the Roma national day remain unspecified, as does the full name and background of 'Sverige Romani med Barbi'. The significance or criteria for the Roma Cultural Bearer of the Year prize have also not been disclosed.
I was overwhelmed. Completely stunned. I didn't believe it.