Sixth UniSport VILA Lecture: Knowledge Creates Opportunities

On Saturday, we are hosting the sixth and final lecture of this year’s UniSport VILA edition – the last step before students take on key volunteer roles at the UniSport Finals 2025. This time, our focus is on education, international projects, and career opportunities through sport and volunteering.

Speakers:
Triple Olympian, world silver medalist, and one of Croatia’s most recognizable athletes – Ana Jelušić Black is now a successful professional in the field of international sports management and communications. After an outstanding skiing career, during which she competed at the Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Turin, and Vancouver and reached World Cup podiums, Ana continued to develop just as impressively off the slopes. She has translated her knowledge and experience into work with top sports institutions – she was part of the communications teams at Eurosport, the International Ski Federation (FIS), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the International Testing Agency (ITA). Today, she runs her own consulting firm specializing in communication strategies and sports diplomacy, works with UEFA, and is especially dedicated to youth education through Olympic and academic initiatives.

Assoc. Prof. Hrvoje Sivrić, PhD, is an associate professor at the University of Slavonski Brod and an expert in project management, education, and international cooperation. For many years, he has been bridging academia, sports, and practice – as a lecturer, mentor, and leader of numerous national and EU-funded projects. His expertise lies in the development of educational and sports programs, organizing trainings, and leading initiatives that connect young people, volunteers, and professionals. He has published more than 50 scientific and professional papers and shares his knowledge at conferences, workshops, and seminars across Europe. He has been actively involved in the work of the Croatian Academic Sports Federation, holding key positions including Chair of the EU Projects Commission. His work has been recognized as essential for advancing education through sport, with a particular focus on lifelong learning, innovation, and international cooperation.

In the continuation of the program, Marko Erak (Croatian Water Polo Federation) and Viktoria Vlahek (UniSport ZG) will present volunteer programs for upcoming major events – the U20 World Water Polo Championship, the European University Water Polo Championship, and the European University Futsal Championship.

The final presentation and closing will include the showcasing of practical projects and ideas, marking the conclusion of the UniSport VILA 2025 educational cycle and the beginning of a new chapter in volunteering and hands-on experience!

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