By Joseph Erceg, featuring insights on Davorin Ozich
Three outstanding young people were recognised on Saturday night, June 7, at the Croatian Cultural Society of New Zealand. This event included the 2025 Davorin Ozich Youth Scholarships presentation as part of the Dan državnosti Republike hrvatske (Croatia Statehood Day) celebration.
Honouring a Legacy of Excellence
Launched in 2024 to honour the legacy of Davorin Ozich, the founding president of the Society, the scholarship celebrates excellence in the fields of sport, entrepreneurship, culture, and academia. Each recipient is awarded $2,500 to support their pursuits. This echoes Davorin Ozich’s dedication to fostering future talents.
Two Sporting Stars Share the Spotlight
Due to the exceptional calibre of applicants, the sporting category was awarded to two recipients.
Taylor Vujnovich, a rising football star, has already made a name for herself. In 2024, she was the top goal scorer for West Coast Rangers. In addition, she became one of the youngest players to debut in New Zealand’s National League. This year, Taylor was named in the squad representing New Zealand at the 2025 U17 FIFA World Cup. This underlines her growing reputation as one of the country’s brightest young football talents. This achievement aligns with the values celebrated in the Davorin Ozich youth scholarships.
Dora Slavich was also awarded the sporting scholarship for her outstanding achievements in orienteering. She will represent New Zealand at the 2025 European Youth Orienteering Championships in Brno, Czech Republic. Furthermore, she was part of the gold-medal-winning team at the 2023 World Schools Championships in Brazil. Dora’s success is matched by her academic excellence. She also demonstrates leadership as a junior coach and mentor. This reflects her maturity and leadership qualities. It resonates with Davorin Ozich’s legacy.
A Fashion Future Forged in Heritage
In the entrepreneurial category, Molly Mullany was awarded the scholarship for her exceptional promise in the fashion industry. Currently based in Paris, she is studying at the prestigious Instituto Marangoni. Molly has already interned with renowned fashion house Nanushka. In addition, she is completing a degree in Fashion Business. With a passion for sustainability and innovation, she aims to weave her Croatian heritage into her future career in the textiles industry. She embodies the legacy of Davorin Ozich through her creative pursuits.
Building the Future of the Community
The Davorin Ozich Youth Scholarship reflects the Society’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of Croatians in New Zealand. It honors those who show dedication, talent, and a strong sense of identity.
“These young people represent the best of our community. They are not only excelling in their fields but proudly carrying their heritage forward. It bodes well for the club’s future.”
— Len Stulich, Society President
Davorin Ozich left a lasting mark on the community. This is evident in the photo gallery of another beautiful evening on Saturday night. It celebrates the 35th anniversary of Croatia’s Statehood Day and the 1100 anniversary of the coronation of Kralj Tomislav. Stunning performances from Kralj Tomislav ensemble and from all special friends – Sydney Folkore ensemble Vukovar, Te Rōpū Manutaki kapa haka group and The Shades:
