ABOUT CROCONNECT
I’m Marta Abicic, the creator of this Croatian learning platform. My journey with the Croatian language started early, as I was raised in a household where Croatian was exclusively spoken. Under the guidance of my mum, a dedicated Croatian teacher with years of experience in Sydney, my appreciation for the language and culture flourished.
​I was introduced to Croatian school during my primary years and attended regularly. In high school, I transitioned to Saturday school, preparing for the HSC in Croatian Continuers. Completing my HSC in 2021, I achieved a Band 6 in Croatian Continuers, ranking first in the state. This achievement was a testament not only to my passion but also to the incredible educators who shaped my learning experience.​
Having encountered diverse teaching styles and methodologies over the years, I began teaching Croatian myself in 2023. Working with students ranging from Year 1 to adults, I brought together the best aspects of my learning journey and adjusted my teaching approach to be engaging, simplified, and student-focused.​
The idea for Cro Connect was born from this experience. I realised there was a significant gap in the market for self-led, digital, and comprehensive Croatian learning resources—especially for adults balancing busy work schedules who may find it challenging to commit to regular classes. Cro Connect aims to modernise the way Croatian is taught and learned, creating an all-inclusive language hub where learners take the lead, supported by dedicated educators.​
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to deepen your understanding of the language, Cro Connect offers the tools, resources, and flexibility to make your journey enjoyable and effective. Join us and experience a new way to connect with the Croatian language and culture.
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About
Gloria Tomic - Croatian Teacher
Hi I’m Gloria! I was born in Croatia and migrated to Australia at the age of three. Fluent in Croatian, I am an active member of the Croatian community in Australia and have maintained a strong connection to my Croatian heritage. After graduating in 2017, I achieved a 3rd place ranking in Croatian Continuers at the state level, which further deepened my expertise.
My passion for the Croatian culture and language led me to become a Croatian teacher, where I’m dedicated to inspiring and teaching the next generation ensuring our language and traditions are preserved for years to come.
About
Bridget Mazar - Croatian Teacher
Hi, I’m Bridget Mažar! Raised in a bilingual home, my patriotic father inspired a deep love for my Croatian heritage from a young age.
My proficiency in the Croatian language is supported by completing Croatian for the HSC with a Band 6, studying Croatian at Macquarie University, and, in 2020, taking the opportunity of a lifetime to study on exchange at the Croaticum School of Croatian Language and Culture in Zagreb.
There, I earned a B2 proficiency diploma and spent three years living in the Croatian capital, fully immersing myself in the everyday language and culture. I’m dedicated to sharing my knowledge of the Croatian language, believing it to be the key that connects you to your heritage and enriches your bond with Croatia.
About
Marko Seric - Croatian Teacher
Hi, I’m Marko!
I’m a third-generation Croatian born in Sydney, and I’m proud of my background and culture. Everything about Croatia - the food, the sport, the lifestyle, and the people - attracts me and makes every visit feel too short.
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I’ve been lucky enough to study overseas in Split and live there for over a year, which has enabled me to develop my skills with the language and communicate better with my Croatian family and friends.
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While in Croatia, I completed the Croatian Language for Foreigners 3 course at the University of Split, where I achieved an excellent score, comparable to a C1 level. This experience has deepened my connection to my heritage and enriched my understanding of the Croatian culture.
About
Daniel Jonjic - Croatian Teacher
Hi I’m Daniel!
I’m a first-generation Croatian born in Australia, and my heritage is at the heart of who I am. Croatian was the language of my home, my family, and my community. It wasn’t just how we spoke, it was how we lived.
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From an early age, I understood the importance of preserving our traditions, whether through language, music, or the stories passed down through generations. For over 14 years, I have been actively involved in both the religious and secular Croatian community, deepening my expertise in the language and culture.
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Speaking Croatian is more than just communication. It is a connection to our roots and a way to keep our culture strong. I’m committed to helping others do the same, ensuring our heritage continues to thrive for generations to come.
About
Goran Palecek - Croatian Teacher
Hi, I’m Goran!
I’m a second-generation Croatian living between Newcastle and Sydney, and my heritage has always been a significant part of my life. Growing up in an exclusively Croatian-speaking household, I’ve been immersed in the language and culture from a young age.
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I visit Croatia frequently, starting with my first trip as a 7-week-old baby, and I’ve returned almost every year since. Recently, I spent three years living in Croatia, playing football in Rijeka and Zagreb, and studying there, which greatly refined my language skills and deepened my connection to my roots.
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Currently, I’m a medical student, but my passion for Croatia and preserving the language has led me to CroConnect, where I aim to support learners at all levels on their Croatian language journey.
About
Dora Abicic - Resource Assistant and Children's Tutor
With a score of 98 in Croatian Continuers HSC and ranking second in the state, Dora brings her expertise and passion for education to Cro Connect. Having attended Croatian school for 10 years across primary and high school levels, Dora has extensive experience tutoring students of all ages and excels in making learning engaging and accessible. She’s here to support young learners on their journey to mastering Croatian!