5th Annual
AUS-NZ CWL SUMMIT
MELBOURNE
NOV 7 - 9, 2025
Summit 2025 - Empowering Agents of Change
Melbourne Australia | 7-9 November 2025
In 2025, the AUS-NZ Croatian Women in Leadership Summit returns to Melbourne, bringing together inspiring women from across Australia, New Zealand, Croatia, and beyond. With the theme "Empowering Agents of Change", the summit promises a dynamic weekend of leadership, innovation, and connection.
Event Highlights
Friday 6th September – Welcome Reception
Elegant evening reception at the Alto Room, Langham Hotel Melbourne.
Welcome address by MC Cindy Drake.
Canapés and cocktails in a sophisticated setting.
An opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new members from across the network.
Saturday 7th September – Full Conference Day
Hosted at Langham Hotel Melbourne, featuring keynote speaker Ms Željana Zovko, Member of the European Parliament and Vice-Chair of the EPP Group.
Opening Karakia by Dame Naida Glavish.
Welcome address by Ambassador H.E. Betty Pavelich.
Four dynamic panel discussions: Leading Across Industries, Voices of Innovation, The Spoken, Written and Visual Word, and Shaping the Future.
Intimate Fireside Chat with The Hon. Justice Larissa Strk, facilitated by Ambassador Pavelich.
Special guest appearance via Zoom by Major Antonija Trupinić, Croatian Air Force Major.
Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea provided, encouraging networking and meaningful connections.
Saturday 7th September – Celebration Dinner
Gala three-course dinner with drinks in the Ballroom at Langham Hotel Melbourne.
Live entertainment by Major Minor.
Charity auction supporting important community causes.
A night of celebration, glamour, and recognition of achievements across the AUS-NZ Croatian community.
Sunday 8th September – Farewell Brunch
Closing the summit with a relaxed brunch and networking session.
Young Women's Network panel moderated by Carmel Cule, featuring emerging leaders discussing their career journeys and aspirations.
Closing Karakia by Dame Naida Glavish.
A heartfelt send-off, leaving attendees inspired, empowered, and deeply connected.
2025 Summit Gallery
Friday Night - Welcome Reception
Saturday Day - Summit Conference PART 1
Saturday Day - Summit Conference PART 2
Sunday Brunch - Young Women’s Network Panel + Farewell
