A Leader Who Connects Vision, People, and Community
“Take the initiative. Feelings of insufficient time are indicators that it is the right moment; delaying reduces opportunity.”
Antonia Radić Brkan describes her professional development as a continual process of growth and learning. Before enrolling in the COTRUGLI MBA program, she served as director and co-owner of an event agency specializing in project and destination management. Reflecting on this period, she notes, “At that time, I was still early in my professional journey. Although I had accumulated experience, numerous questions remained unanswered. My objectives included enhancing my leadership, mentorship, and collegial abilities, and acquiring more effective strategies for managing both people and operations.”
Transition from Entrepreneur to Community Leader
During her MBA studies, Antonia gained fresh insights into business development and leadership, leveraging this knowledge to identify and capitalize on new opportunities. “Following the MBA, I expanded our business into directions I might not have previously considered. Currently, I apply these experiences within public administration, with a focus on strategic community development and regenerative tourism,” she explains. As Deputy Mayor of Makarska, she prioritizes public welfare and enhancing the quality of life, while ensuring that development efforts remain aligned with the city’s identity. She adds, “Today, I lead with increased composure and trust in established processes.”
Antonia attributes significant influence on her leadership approach to her MBA cohort. “We began our leadership paths as ambitious, aspiring professionals. The collective energy, ideas, and support within our group greatly shaped my own style. It is rewarding to observe how many are now serving in executive roles across diverse industries,” she remarks.
The Value of Community and Lifelong Learning
Her choice to pursue an MBA at COTRUGLI was motivated by a desire to build local networks and further her development. “Centrally located in Zagreb, the program offered opportunities for professional exchanges at both local and national levels,” she recalls. Her aims to strengthen business management skills, acquire new knowledge, and cultivate valuable connections were fully realized. “Upon reflection, I consider it an excellent decision; the competencies and network developed during this time continue to prove invaluable both professionally and personally.”
She identifies the entrepreneurship and finance modules as particularly challenging, yet instrumental. “I applied these lessons directly to our formerly small agency, resulting in operational improvements and enabling business expansion. These changes laid the groundwork for prominent projects such as Zagreb Advent and numerous destination initiatives throughout Croatia.” Balancing professional responsibilities, personal commitments, and academic requirements was demanding. “Though there were times I doubted my ability to succeed, I am confident it was the right decision taken at the right time; postponing would only have made it more difficult.”
The COTRUGLI network remains a crucial part of Antonia’s professional landscape. “Many contacts have evolved into enduring friendships. Over nearly twenty years, we have collaborated, supported one another, and occasionally been competitors in a healthy manner,” she notes. In her role as mentor, she seeks to share expertise in entrepreneurship and public service with emerging professionals.
Advancing Leadership for the Future
Antonia credits the MBA with significantly influencing her career trajectory. “It enhanced my confidence in making decisions, opened new avenues, and facilitated connections that remain relevant today.” Nearly two decades later, she acknowledges substantial growth as a leader, entrepreneur, and individual. “I approach my work with a broader perspective, increased confidence, and greater understanding of complexity – balanced with empathy towards my team and community. Learning from colleagues and international faculty underscored that leadership is about more than task management: it is fundamentally about inspiration, trust, and connection.”
Looking ahead, Antonia emphasizes the growing importance of emotional intelligence, resilience, and sustainable leadership models in MBA programs. “These competencies will be increasingly critical in future leadership.” For Antonia, success involves generating positive outcomes for both individuals and the wider community: “Success is realizing a vision that enhances quality of life and remaining authentic in pursuit of your values.”
To her younger self, she offers this advice: “Do not wait for ideal circumstances. Embrace opportunities for growth with courage. The relationships you build are as valuable as the knowledge acquired.”
For those contemplating an MBA, Antonia provides clear guidance:
“Take the initiative. Feelings of insufficient time are indicators that it is the right moment; delaying reduces opportunity. Be open to engaging with others, sharing experiences, and fostering connections. While you will gain knowledge, the relationships and perspectives formed will endure across your professional journey.”