Preserving Identity: Croatian Language Graduation in Geelong honours achievements
- by croatiaweek
- in Entertainment
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
In a celebration of language and culture, the graduation ceremony for Croatian language students took place on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at the Croatian Community Centre in Geelong, Australia.
The event brought together proud graduates, dedicated teachers, distinguished guests, and supportive sponsors, making it a memorable occasion for all.
Eight students marked the culmination of their efforts and dedication to learning the Croatian language. The 2023 graduates include Danijela Dolić, Josip Kasic, Port of Michelin, Olivia Mandušić, Amanda Džajkić, Nikki Barbić, Jelena Lunić, and Antonella Trogrlić. These individuals hailed from two centers—Altona North, under the guidance of teacher Alexandar McPherson, and Geelong, with teacher Mrs. Slađana Devčić.
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
The ceremony was graced by guests. Among them were Mr. Joe Toṧića and Mr. Stefo Stojanovski, Deputy Principals of the Victorian School of Languages, Mr. Tomislava Butković, President of the Croatian Community Center, and Mrs. Alma Špiranović and Mrs. Mara Šimić, representing the Croatian Cultural Association.
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
The Association of Croatian Language Teachers in Victoria take pride in its mission to preserve the Croatian language identity. The organisation expressed gratitude to sponsors whose generosity made the ceremony possible. Special thanks were extended to Hartcourts North Geelong, Croatian Community Centre Geelong, I&D Developments, Volare Tailing, Croatian National Hall “Kardinsl Alojzije Stepinac” Geelong, and the Croatian Cultural Association Geelong.
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
The ceremony featured speakers who shared words of wisdom and encouragement. Mr. Joe Tošić, Deputy Principal of VSL, and Mrs. Katica Perinac, President of the Association of Croatian Language Teachers in Victoria, addressed the audience, emphasising the importance of language preservation and cultural appreciation.
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
Antonela Trogrlić and Nikki Barbić conveyed heartfelt greetings in Croatian on behalf of the graduates, while Jelena Lunić and Amanda Džajkić extended warm greetings in English. Their speeches reflected the diversity of the graduating class and the unity fostered through language learning.
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
The graduates were honoured with certificates of appreciation for learning the Croatian language from the General Consulate of the Republic of Croatia in Melbourne. Additionally, each graduate received a unique picture drawn by artist Suzana Fantov, a special souvenir commemorating the 40th anniversary of the recognition of the Croatian language, ribbons from the teachers’ association, and gift vouchers.
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
The graduates were also invited to a reception for the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia, Gordan Grlić Radman. On December 6, 2023, the minister presented certificates of appreciation to the Croatian language graduates, further recognising their dedication to language and culture.
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
(Photo: Croatian Cultural Association Geelong)
