Committee

The Mladi Hrvati Folkloric Group Committee is proud to be made up of members of the community who work hard and passionately to promote the Mladi Hrvati Folkloric Group and the appreciation of Croatian folkloric dance and traditional music. This includes raising funds, managing finances, maintaining our beautiful traditional costumes, organising events, and supporting our dancers and singers. All Committee members participate on a voluntary basis and are elected by members of Mladi Hrvati at its Annual General Meeting. 

Here's a little introduction to our wonderful Committee.

President - Kata Markov

Inspired by her Croatian heritage, Kata is proudly serving her second year as President of Mladi Hrvati. As President, Kata focuses on strengthening community bonds, organising cultural events, and fostering a welcoming environment for all members. She is a devoted mother to her son who has been a member of Mladi Hrvati since 2018. Kata has been a dedicated committee member since 2019 and a lifelong supporter of Mladi Hrvati. With a deep-rooted connection to Croatian culture, Kata has always cherished the traditions, customs, and values that define the Croatian community. Driven by a profound respect of the past, and her love for celebrating Croatian heritage, Kata is committed to ensuring our traditions live on for future generations to enjoy and be proud of.

Vice President - Angela Tutek

Angela Tutek, newly elected Vice President is a passionate advocate for preserving and promoting Croatian traditions and culture. Angela supports the President in the day-to-day operations of the group, leading key fundraising initiatives such as merchandise and fostering member engagement. In her new role, she will support the President in advancing initiatives that celebrate Croatian customs, arts, and values, while ensuring that the organisation remains a strong pillar for the Croatian community. Angela's two daughters joined Mladi Hrvati in 2018 and are members of the Junior and Intermediates group. They proudly carry on the tradition from their parents who both danced folkore as children.

Secretary - Bella Perić

Bella is the newly elected Secretary of Mladi Hrvati and has been an active member since she was 16 years old. As a member of the Senior group, Bella’s dedication to preserving Croatian traditions shines through in her passion for folkloric dance. In recent years, she has also taken on the role of dance teacher for the Junior group, while continuing to assist both the Intermediates and Senior groups. Bella embodies the mission of Mladi Hrvati, serving as a living example of why the group exists – to pass on our rich traditions to the next generation. As Secretary, she manages member communication and helps coordinate events, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Her commitment to both dancing and teaching is a testament to her love for Croatian culture and her desire to inspire others to embrace and preserve it for years to come.

Vice Secretary - Maja Jakičić

Maja is the newly appointed Vice Secretary of Mladi Hrvati and a dedicated member of the Senior group. In addition to her role as Vice Secretary, Maja is a valued part of the Junior teaching team, where she helps nurture the next generation of dancers. Her passion for Croatian culture and commitment to preserving our traditions is evident in her active involvement both on and off the stage. Maja’s support in the administrative side of the organisation, along with her hands-on teaching, plays a key role in ensuring the success and growth of Mladi Hrvati.

Treasurer - Steve Jakičić

Steve is the Treasurer of Mladi Hrvati, bringing valuable financial oversight to the committee. His connection to the group runs deep, as his daughter, Maja, dances in the Senior group and is also a dedicated member of the Junior teaching team. Maja has also recently joined the committee as Vice Secretary. Steve’s support of the group is driven by his commitment to helping preserve and promote Croatian traditions, and he plays a vital role in ensuring the organisation remains financially stable and continues to thrive.

Vice Treasurer - Barbara Luketić

Barbara is a beloved member of the Mladi Hrvati family, honored with the first-ever Lifelong Member Award in 2024 for her steadfast dedication and service to the group. Her connection to Mladi Hrvati spans generations—her three children were active members from 1987 to 1998, and today, Barbara and her husband Joe, who is also a valued member, take great pride in seeing their grandchildren now dance with the group.

Barbara supports the Treasurer in overseeing the financial management of the organisation, ensuring its continued stability and success. She is also a key contributor to event management ensuring our big fundraising events are a huge success. Her lifelong commitment to Mladi Hrvati reflects her passion for preserving Croatian traditions and her deep love for the community. Barbara's contributions, both to the financial health of the group and to the legacy of Croatian culture, inspire all who are part of Mladi Hrvati, making her an invaluable part of our community.

Fundraising Coordinator - Elena Muse

Elena is a highly respected member of the Mladi Hrvati community, known for her unwavering commitment and successful leadership in fundraising efforts over the past decade. She has played a pivotal role in organising and leading fundraising events, working closely with the Secretary and Vice Secretary to create opportunities that support and sustain the group. Elena's dedication to the success of Mladi Hrvati goes beyond fundraising—she is passionate about ensuring the organisation continues to thrive and can offer the best opportunities to its members.

Her connection to Mladi Hrvati is personal, as her daughters joined the Junior and Intermediate Groups in 2015. Elena’s strong sense of community and her tireless work behind the scenes have made a lasting impact on the group, and she continues to be a driving force in its ongoing success.