The ACAP Conference culminated in a spectacular gala event, bringing together attendees to celebrate the past few days of insightful discussions, networking, and collaborative learning. This gathering not only marked the end of the conference but also served as a platform to reflect on the mission of ACAP and its significant contributions to the community.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Kresimir Marusic, ACAP Foundation Chair, who expressed gratitude to all participants for their engagement and enthusiasm. Maria Sentic, President of ACAP, shared her enthusiasm for the conference, highlighting the positive atmosphere and valuable insights exchanged. They were able to share the incredible initiatives ACAP has launched over the years, from scholarship opportunities, to the Domovina Birthright Program, amongst so much more, showcasing the organization’s commitment to empowering individuals and fostering economic development.
In addition, ACAP honored the Central Office of Croats Abroad, whose representative Croatiana Greguric was in attendance, and thanked them for all their support and collaboration.
As guests mingled, they shared their experiences from the conference, reminiscing about the thought-provoking panels, expert-led discussions, and the invaluable connections made. Throughout the gala, the core mission of ACAP was highlighted—promoting growth, innovation, and collaboration within the community. Another fun moment for guests, while mingling, was getting to meet Davor Suker, former Croatian Soccer player who helped Croatia win 3rd place in 1998, and was awarded the prestigious Golden Boot award, a hero to many, as he was in attendance at the conference and gala, as well.
One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the distribution of awards, recognizing outstanding contributions and achievements within the community. Various categories celebrated Rising Stars, Professional Excellence and more. These awards not only honored individual accomplishments but also reinforced the collective spirit of collaboration that ACAP embodies.
Award winners included:
Rising Star, Health and Medicine – Alen Juginovic
Rising Star, Environment, Agribusiness, Food Sciences -Ivana Kuncic
Rising Star, Science and Technology- Mislav Magerl
Rising Star, Media and Communications – Stefan Modrich
Rising Star, Arts & Culture – Kristin Vukovic
Professional Excellence, Entrepreneurship, Family Business, Tourism – Niko Hazdovac
Professional Excellence, Business – Peter Hricak
Professional Excellence, Philanthropy – Wanita Kelava
Professional Excellence, Law, Governance, Public Policy – Tom Kuzmanovic
Professional Excellence, Education and Academia – Mario Skugor
Friend of Croatia – Robert Kohorst
Honorary – Miro Koletic
Member Achievement – Marko Zoretic
Closing remarks were delivered by Jasmine Golubic, Conference Chair, who extended her heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and volunteers whose contributions made the weekend a resounding success.
The gala served as a reminder of the profound impact that ACAP has had and will continue to have in the coming years. Attendees left the event with renewed inspiration and a shared commitment to furthering the goals of ACAP, eager to implement the knowledge gained during the conference in their own endeavors.
With the gala marking a fitting end to an impactful conference, participants departed with a sense of accomplishment and excitement for what lies ahead, united in their mission to create a brighter future together.
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