Articles for author: Sara Skoda

ACAP Conference Concludes with Inspiring Gala Celebration

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

Day 2 Recap: ACAP Conference Inspires with Insightful Discussions and Networking

Day 2 of the ACAP Conference unfolded with renewed energy and a collective eagerness to learn. The morning kicked off with warm welcome remarks from Kresimir Marusic, Chair of the ACAP Foundation, setting a collaborative tone for the day ahead. The first highlight was a fireside chat titled “Staying Ahead: Managing and Leading in a Fast-Changing World,” featuring Ana Kreacic, Partner and Chief Knowledge Officer at Oliver Wyman. Her insights on navigating rapid change resonated with attendees eager to adapt and thrive in today’s dynamic environment. Following this, a compelling panel discussion on “Doing Business in Croatia” was had.  The

Evening Reception at the Museum of Illusions: A Perfect Conclusion to a Productive Day at the 8th Annual ACAP Conference

After a day filled with insightful discussions and networking at the ACAP Conference, attendees gathered for an enchanting reception at the Museum of Illusions, one of the conference’s platinum sponsors. The venue provided a vibrant backdrop for guests to unwind, connect, and explore the museum’s fascinating offerings. As the evening unfolded, attendees mingled, sharing experiences from the day while enjoying the unique and playful atmosphere of the museum. The array of optical illusions sparked curiosity and delight, providing an engaging environment for both conversation and exploration. A highlight of the evening was the special drink served—Antique Premium Herbal Liqueur Pelinkovac,

Excitement Unfolds at the 8th Annual ACAP Conference: Highlights from Day One

The first official day of the 8th Annual ACAP Conference was filled with excitement as hundreds of attendees gathered to explore the future of collaboration and innovation. The day kicked off with a seamless registration process, followed by a series of welcome remarks that set an inspiring tone for the event. Jasmine Golubic, Conference Chair, welcomed participants with enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of the conference as a platform for dialogue and connection. Maria Sentic, ACAP President, shared her vision for the organization and the opportunities ahead. Attendees were then addressed by dignitaries including Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony, who highlighted

Celebrating Heritage Through Sport: Naša Budućnost Hosts Successful Bocce Tournament

On Saturday, September 28th, on Long Island, NY, and despite the rain and wind, the Croatian-American diaspora organization Naša Budućnost celebrated their annual Bocce tournament, bringing together a vibrant community rooted in the traditions of Ilovik. Founded in the 1990s, Naša Budućnost aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Croatians. The tournament featured a spirited competition with 16 teams participating. Players, some with ancestral ties to Ilovik and others hailing from various regions of Croatia, showcased their skills in this beloved game. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie, proving that even adverse weather conditions couldn’t

[AUDIO ON SPOTIFY] Interview with Dino Ravnic: A Journey in Cutting-Edge Regenerative Medicine

In an insightful conversation with Sara Skoda from Croatians Online, Dino Ravnic, the esteemed Huck Chair in Regenerative Medicine and Surgical Sciences and Professor of Surgery, shared his remarkable journey from Croatia to the forefront of medical innovation. His story is not just about scientific achievement but also about deep personal connections and cultural roots. Despite the distance from his ancestral homeland, Ravnic’s connection to Croatia has always remained strong. His upbringing was marked by a blend of Croatian traditions and the influences of his new environment, instilling in him a sense of identity and resilience. Ravnic’s fascination with medicine

Dr. Alen Juginovic Hosts Croatian Medical Students at Harvard

On Saturday, August 17th, Dr. Alen Juginovic, along with the Croatian NGO Med&X Association, welcomed eight Croatian medical students to Harvard University for an enriching and insightful experience. The visit included a comprehensive tour of some of Harvard’s most prestigious institutions: the main campus, Harvard Medical School, and Harvard Business School. The day began with an exploration of Harvard Medical School, where the students gained valuable insights into the facilities and resources available to medical students and researchers.  This also included a firsthand opportunity to see the labs where Dr. Juginovic spends his days with his own sleep medicine research.

[AUDIO ON SPOTIFY] The Legacy of Art and Resilience: Kat Coric’s Journey and Her Gift to Dubrovnik

In an interview with Sara Skoda for Croatians Online, Kat Coric shared the poignant story behind her art, underscoring her enduring connection to her homeland, Dubrovnik. Born in Dubrovnik, Croatia, and currently based in Montreal, Coric’s multifaceted career as an artist, activist, and art collector has been profoundly shaped by her experiences during the Croatian Homeland War of the early 1990s. Kat Coric’s childhood was deeply intertwined with her Croatian heritage. Her parents, Ivan and Marija Coric, instilled in her a strong sense of her roots, speaking Croatian at home and celebrating traditional meals. This cultural immersion was further enriched

Croatians Online Attends Book Release Event for Kristin Vukovic’s “The Cheesemaker’s Daughter”

On the evening of Tuesday, August 6th, P&T Knitwear in Manhattan, NY, transformed into a literary haven for a special occasion—the book release event for Kristin Vukovic’s latest novel, The Cheesemaker’s Daughter. The event, attended by approximately 50 guests, celebrated the debut of a story set against the picturesque backdrop of Croatia’s island of Pag. I was able to attend, representing Croatians Online, and was among those who gathered to support Vukovic’s new work. The evening was marked by an immersive Croatian experience, featuring cheese from Pag, renowned for its distinct flavor, and a selection of Croatian white and red

Nathalia Mocivuna: Bridging Global Connections Through Croatian Citizenship

In a recent podcast interview with Sara Skoda for Croatians Online, Nathalia Mocivuna shared her inspiring journey and the vision behind her business, Salona Consulting, a thriving business dedicated to helping people worldwide reconnect with their Croatian heritage through citizenship. Nathalia’s story is one of passion and perseverance. Growing up in Brazil, she always felt a profound connection to her Croatian ancestry. This cultural bond, though distant geographically, remained a significant part of her identity. After studying and living in Croatia, she moved to Switzerland, and recognized an opportunity to turn her personal connection into a professional mission. Her goal