Nikola Tesla as Inspiration for the Future: 169th Birthday Celebrated at Esplanade

Tesla’s Legacy: Scientist, Innovator, Visionary
On the occasion of Nikola Tesla’s 169th birthday and the 12th Nikola Tesla Day – a celebration of science, technology and innovation – a ceremonial evening took place at Zagreb’s Esplanade Hotel. The event highlighted Tesla’s lasting influence, portraying him not merely as a brilliant inventor, but as a visionary whose values and ideas continue to resonate in today’s world.

A Message for the Future: Science in Service of Humanity
Dragica Mihajlović, president of the association Nikola Tesla – Genius for the Future, emphasized Tesla’s timeless role, reminding guests that he shaped not only the past and present, but also the future. She underscored that Tesla believed science and technology must serve the creation of a more just and advanced society.

“Today, more than ever, the world needs schools that spark curiosity, universities that nurture responsible and innovative citizens, and a society that empowers ideas instead of stifling them,” said Mihajlović.

Awards for Young Talent
Three awards were presented in different categories. In the Tesla and Physics Knowledge Quiz category, Benjamin Jagarčec from Silvije Strahimir Kranjčević Primary School was recognized. In the Creative and Innovative Products category, Martin Banko was awarded for his Solar Roof Tile project. In the category of Extended Tesla Contribution, Petra Crnetić Dvojković received an award for her SONIC pro dental project.

Support from Academia and Business Community
Dean of the Faculty of Textile Technology, Prof. Dr. Anica Hursa Šajatović, stated that the faculty has long supported the association’s work and expressed hope that among this year’s nominees are those who, like Tesla, will blaze new trails in science and technology.

Andrea Doko Jelušić, Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Croatia, highlighted the importance of remembering a man who dreamed of science in service of humanity – especially in an era of global challenges, from climate change to technological upheaval.

Professor Miljenko Šimpraga, president of the Croatian Association of Innovators, emphasized the role of new technologies as the cornerstone of societal development. Dr. David Matthew Smith, Director of the Ruđer Bošković Institute, also stressed Tesla’s enduring importance not only as a scientist, but as a far-sighted visionary.