Women in Business Club at RIT Croatia: A year of empowerment and growth

The Women in Business Club at RIT Croatia’s Zagreb campus recently celebrated its first anniversary, marking a year of impactful initiatives, networking, and community building that has set the stage for continued growth and inspiration. Since its founding, the club has quickly become one of the most active student-led organizations on campus, boasting an impressive 126 members who are committed to fostering a supportive, educational, and empowering space for women in business.

A Vision of Empowerment and Growth

Leonela Krajač, the club’s president and founding member, also a third-year student in the Global Business Management/IB program, shared that the inspiration for starting the club stemmed from a desire to create an inclusive space where women could confidently pursue entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities. The club’s core objectives reflect this vision: promoting women’s entrepreneurship through education and real-world experience, highlighting successful stories of women-led businesses, and building a supportive female community that empowers members in their professional and personal pursuits. While the club was warmly welcomed by many, there was some initial skepticism. However, as Leonela noted, “We always vocalized that we are NOT a feminist club but rather a learning platform. If you don’t know how to play football but want to learn, you should join a football club.” The club’s inclusive approach has since led to enthusiastic male support, with 10 male students regularly participating in its events and activities.

Positive Impact on Campus and Beyond

In its first year, the Women in Business Club launched a series of dynamic events and initiatives that allowed members to gain hands-on experience, broaden their networks, and enhance their professional skills. Some highlights include professional development workshops, panel and networking events, collaborations with RIT Croatia’s faculty members, and community-building activities. Over the past year, the Women in Business Club has had a noticeable impact on RIT Croatia’s campus culture, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Members have gained skills in networking, leadership, and professional development. Leonela shared testimonials from members who benefited from the club’s initiatives, including one student who gained confidence for her first interview through the club’s CV and LinkedIn workshops. Another member expressed gratitude for the mindset workshop, where she learned valuable techniques for managing stress and avoiding burnout.

Future Goals and Expansion to Dubrovnik

Looking ahead, the club has ambitious plans. A major initiative in the works is a Women’s Day conference open to the public, offering panels, guest speakers, and networking opportunities. “This will be our first event open to other universities, as we’ve seen interest from students beyond RIT Croatia,” said Leonela. Additionally, the club aims to strengthen connections with the RIT campus in Rochester, NY, USA and the recently launched Women in Business Club at the RIT Croatia’s Dubrovnik campus, which was directly inspired by the Zagreb club’s success. “We’re thrilled about the expansion to Dubrovnik,” Leonela shared, describing it as a testament to the club’s impact. She looks forward to potential collaborations between the two campuses to enhance the shared mission of supporting women in business.

Leadership Lessons and RIT Croatia’s Role

For Leonela, leading the Women in Business Club has been transformative. “Delegating was a hard task at first, but I’ve learned to trust and rely on the incredible passion of our leadership team,” she reflected. Through the club, she has developed her own leadership and time management skills, gaining a stronger work-life balance and a deeper appreciation for team collaboration. The support of RIT Croatia has been crucial in helping the club grow, with faculty and staff mentors providing guidance, resources, and event funding. This partnership has allowed the club to organize diverse and high-impact events that directly benefit its members.

Building a Legacy of Inspiration and Connection

As the Women in Business Club enters its second year, Leonela hopes it will continue to be a place where members can grow and support each other in their personal and professional journeys. She envisions the club leaving a legacy of empowerment, inclusivity, and real-world learning for future generations of women at RIT Croatia. Her advice to students considering starting a club or initiative? “Trust your instincts and go for it. If you believe in your mission, others will too.” The Women in Business Club at RIT Croatia’s Zagreb campus has already left a significant mark. As it continues to expand its reach and influence, it promises to be a lasting source of inspiration for women leaders on campus and beyond.