FROM MEDIA TO VOLUNTEERING: HOW WE WRAPPED UP THE UNISPORT ViLA 2025

The sixth day, also the final online lecture of this year’s edition of UniSport ViLA, was held on April 26. After a series of high-quality and motivating lectures that shift the perspective of every volunteer and sports enthusiast, the last day brought another dose of inspiration. This lecture block, filled with personal experiences and truly inspiring advice from the speakers, highlighted the many opportunities that sport and volunteering can offer.

The first speaker was Ana Jelušić Black, a three-time Olympian in alpine skiing and world silver medalist, with a presentation full of motivating quotes on the topic “Media in Sports.” She shared her life story, from humble beginnings, through ups and downs, to where she is today. She encouraged participants to understand that it’s okay to make mistakes and to explore different life paths. She also showed an example of working at a Champions League match, giving a glimpse into the structure of a typical UEFA Venue Team with creative visuals that brought the spontaneous and unpredictable world of media closer to the audience.

Following the inspiring start, Hrvoje Sivrić, an expert in project management, education, and international cooperation, shared his insights. In his presentation “P.L.A.Y. – Projects Leadership Action for Youth”, he outlined the key traits of a good project leader, emphasized the connection between sport and education, and explained the principles of the Erasmus+ program. He concluded his lecture with practical advice on how and where to get informed and get involved.

The final speakers were Viktoria Vlahek and Marko Erak, who presented the volunteering programs of upcoming events. Viktoria (UniSport ZG) shared her personal volunteering experience, explained who can volunteer, the types of volunteer positions, and the benefits of volunteering at the EUSA Futsal Championship, as well as how to apply.

Marko (Croatian Water Polo Federation) introduced participants to the Federation’s work, the upcoming competition, and the related volunteering program. He also highlighted the benefits for volunteers and explained what follows after a successful application.

To conclude the program, teams presented their practical assignments through creative presentations. Maja Katarina Gajan, a member of the volunteer management team, elaborated on the idea of the Volunteer Centre for Sport. Additionally, another practical task was presented, where participants designed a program and visuals for a rowing regatta. The project team was divided into three groups, with each presenting the goals, challenges, and solutions of their respective projects. The media team coordinator gave an overview of task assignments, completed activities, and plans still in development.

The participants’ final presentations brought this year’s UniSport ViLA to a close. Once again, UniSport successfully demonstrated how much can be achieved through knowledge and unity, all within a relaxed and engaging atmosphere that accompanied every lecture. And although this was the final day, it certainly doesn’t mark the end, but rather the beginning of new opportunities and experiences.

 

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