On its second birthday, Forbes Slovenia unveiled its first-ever Slovenian edition of the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, spotlighting exceptional young individuals under the age of 30 – visionaries, innovators and creators who are pushing boundaries in entrepreneurship, science and technology, (pop) culture and the arts, and sports.

The project began in May, when Forbes Slovenia opened a public call and invited more than 80 institutions, mentors and individuals to nominate young talents. Each application underwent a detailed review using public databases, media sources and direct verification. The initial selection was conducted by the editorial committee (Forbes Slovenia, N1, Sportklub), while the final shortlist was chosen by an expert jury: Samira Kentrić, Dr. Saša Novak, Luka Renko, Boštjan Bandelj, Jure Košir, and Forbes Slovenia editor-in-chief Bojana Humar.

“The selection is important for several reasons. It showcases young people from Slovenia who are successful – some even globally – and who demonstrate the kind of talent essential for societal progress and national confidence. These young individuals can inspire others. Through their ideas, work, perseverance, resourcefulness and passion, they prove that it can be done,” emphasized Bojana Humar, who also led the selection process.

Following a thorough selection process, Forbes Slovenia compiled a list of young individuals who, based on innovation, breakthrough potential, international presence and impact, represent the forefront of Slovenian creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. These are individuals and teams who exceeded expectations, transformed industries and set new standards that will inspire generations to come.

Honorees of the First Slovenian Forbes 30 Under 30

Entrepreneurship
– Miha Jagodic (Bloq.it) – Co-founder of one of the fastest-growing smart locker companies, collaborating with logistics giants including DHL, GLS and DPD.
– Luka Sinček and Maj Hrovat (Juicy Marbles) – Developers of plant-based meat alternatives present across the US, UK and EU markets.
– Jan Forsthuber and Amadej Tauses (Deltahub) – Creators of the Carpio ergonomic wrist rest, used worldwide.
– Marcel Dover, Nejc Ekart and Marko Zemljarič (Lime Booking) – Developers of a scheduling app used by more than 1,000 companies in the region.
– Eva Esih (Psy Byte) – Creator of tools for digital HR campaigns that help companies find employees more efficiently.
– Aljoša Marković (Ethno Restaurants) – Entrepreneur who expanded his family business into a successful restaurant chain with over 80 employees.
– David Dravinec (Juicefast) – Co-founder of a fast-growing cold-pressed juice startup.

Science and Technology
– Gregor Žunič and Larsen Cundrič (Browser Use) – Creators of an open-source tool that enables AI to browse the web.
– Teja Potočnik (Nanomation) – Developer of software for automating semiconductor production.
– Andraž Zvonar (KatalistAI) – Co-founder of a video platform that uses AI to automate video production.
– Maja Popović – Researcher who disproved a long-standing explanation of bacteria–bacteriophage interactions.
– Luka Petravić – Researcher focusing on big data related to emergency medical treatments in Slovenia.
– Anja Šurina – Researcher at Google DeepMind, contributing to the development of advanced AI systems.
– Gašper Podobnik – Researcher at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, developing AI methods for medical imaging.

(Pop) Culture and Arts
– Patricija Avšič – Violinist performing on global stages at just 17 years old.
– Izak Hudnik Zajec – Cellist and the first Slovenian to join the prestigious Concertgebouw Orchestra.
– Ana Karneža – Actress and singer, graduate of the renowned Juilliard School.
– Bojan Cvjetićanin – Frontman of Joker Out, a band that brought Slovenian pop-rock to the European stage.
– Živa Bizovičar – Theatre director, recipient of numerous awards in Slovenia and abroad.
– Gaja Filač – Actress at SNG Maribor Drama, awarded Best Young Actress in the region.
– Klemen Kovačič – Actor at the Slovene Mladinsko Theatre, winner of several acting awards.
– Selma Skenderović – Writer and poet whose work promotes tolerance and intercultural dialogue.-

Sports

– Luka Dončić – Los Angeles Lakers basketball player, one of the best players in today’s NBA.
– Janja Garnbret – The most successful sport climber of all time and a two-time Olympic champion.
– Tadej Pogačar – Cycling champion and multiple winner of the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia.
– Benjamin Šeško – Manchester United footballer, one of Europe’s most promising forwards.
– Nika Prevc – The world’s best ski jumper and two-time overall World Cup winner.
– Kristjan Čeh – World champion in discus throw and one of the greatest discus throwers in history.
– Tim Gajser – Five-time motocross world champion.
– Rok Možič – Volleyball player, captain of Verona Volley (Italy) and key member of the Slovenian national team.