What does it take to move from a stable career in banking to launching your own business? What are the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face, and how can a business idea grow into a recognisable brand? International School students had the opportunity to explore these questions first-hand during the opening Elite Honours Class of the 2026/27 academic year.
The new season of the Elite Honours Class programme began with an inspiring guest lecture by Vladan Vukajlović, founder and owner of the Aronia Vukajlović brand, who shared his professional journey from working in the banking sector to establishing and developing his own business.
Through an engaging discussion, students gained valuable insights into the realities of the business world and discovered how knowledge, initiative and a willingness to embrace change can contribute to entrepreneurial success.
From a Business Idea to a Recognisable Brand
During the lecture, Vladan Vukajlović spoke about his professional transition, his decision to leave a career in banking and pursue entrepreneurship, and the experiences that shaped the development of the Aronia Vukajlović brand.
His story provided a starting point for a wider discussion about entrepreneurship, business decision-making and the importance of building a strong brand in a competitive market.
Students actively participated in the discussion, asking questions about the process of starting a business, developing a business idea and the essential steps involved in bringing a product to market.
One of the most valuable aspects of the session was the opportunity for students to connect their theoretical knowledge with the first-hand experience of an entrepreneur who has navigated different stages of business development.
Students Step into the Role of Young Brand Strategists
The lecture was not simply an opportunity to gain new knowledge, but also a chance to put it into practice.
At the end of the session, students presented their own ideas and solutions for brand development, demonstrating creativity, analytical thinking and the ability to approach business challenges from different perspectives.
This practical activity encouraged them to think like young entrepreneurs, explore opportunities for strengthening a brand and propose ideas that could contribute to its future growth.
Elite Honours Class: Where Education Meets the Real Business World
The Elite Honours Class programme gives students the opportunity to broaden their knowledge through encounters with professionals from different industries, gain insights into real-world experiences and develop skills that will support their future academic and professional journeys.
Guest lectures such as this encourage curiosity, initiative, critical thinking and an entrepreneurial mindset, while demonstrating how ideas can be transformed into successful business ventures.
International School extends its sincere thanks to Vladan Vukajlović for his time, inspiring presentation and the valuable knowledge and experiences he shared with students.
This engaging session marked an excellent start to the new Elite Honours Class programme for the 2026/27 academic year, opening the door to further opportunities for learning, exchanging ideas and connecting education with the world of modern business.
