American Croatian Congress expands with new members

(Private album)

Last Friday, Bar Croata, a unique podcast and gathering place for Croatian expatriates, sparkled with a special charm.

The gala episode, hosted by Professor Javier Santich from Rosario, Argentina, served as a platform for the formal induction of new members into the American Croatian Congress.

The American Croatian Congress, a global non-profit organisation, has one mission: bringing together individuals whose work and actions bring honour and pride to the Republic of Croatia.

This global network, with members from all corners of the world, not only strengthens Croatian identity but also connects people like a large family—always ready to lend a helping hand.

A Memorable Evening of Connections

Alongside Javier Santich, the evening’s hosts included Ivan Grbac from the Bar Croata podcast studio, as well as distinguished guests Nada Pritisanac Matulich, President of the American Croatian Congress from Los Angeles, and Branka Bezić Filipović from Split.

The evening began with warm opening remarks, followed by the introductions of the new members.

Strength from Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and Bolivia

First to be introduced was Katia Gavranich Camargo from São Paulo, the president of the Society of Friends of Dalmatia. Having inherited the role from her mother, Katia continues her family’s tradition of preserving Croatian values.

Katia Gavranich Camargo (Private album)

A qualified nutritionist and artificial intelligence expert, she is also the author of the first Croatian cookbook in Brazil and a tireless promoter of Croatian culture through activities such as preparing lumblija—a traditional cake from Blato on the island of Korčula.

Next, the audience was taken to Bogotá, where Mauricio Restrepo Gómez, the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Croatia, was introduced.

Mauricio Restrepo Gómez (Photo: Private album(

A civil engineer and humanitarian, he is dedicated to preserving Croatian identity in Colombia. Currently, he is diligently learning the Croatian language through an online course offered by Aspira College in Split.

Youth engagement is also a key goal of the American Croatian Congress, exemplified by Valentina Rendich from Argentina.

A student at the National University of San Martín, photographer, and designer from San Antonio de Padua, Valentina represents a new generation proudly embracing their Croatian heritage.

Valentina Rendich (Private album)

The evening concluded in Bolivia with the introduction of Roberto Jakubek, Honorary Consul in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Born in Zagreb, Jakubek is a civil engineer and a co-founder of the South American Croatian Gathering.

He took the opportunity to invite everyone to the 8th South American Croatian Gathering, set to take place in March 2025 in São Paulo, Brazil.

Robert Jakubek (Private album)

A Growing Family

In her speech, Nada Pritisanac Matulich warmly welcomed the new members and pledged the strong support of the American Croatian Congress for the upcoming 8th Conference of South American Croatians in early 2025 in São Paulo.

“This Friday, the American Croatian Congress was enriched by four exceptional individuals from South America, while Bar Croata, as always, played the role of a gracious host—just like a true family.

We extend our gratitude to all participants for an unforgettable evening and promise that the Croatian spirit will continue to shine across the globe,” Nada Pritisanac Matulich said.