by croatiaweek
October 13, 2025
in
(Photo: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries)
The 25th annual Most Exemplary Croatian Rural Woman competition took place on the weekend, in Nova Gradiška, celebrating the achievements and dedication of women who shape life in rural Croatia.
The event was organised by the Association of Exemplary Croatian Rural Women (Udruga Uzorne hrvatske seoske žene) with the aim of promoting the work and contribution of women in rural areas who add immense value to their communities.
The competition seeks to draw attention to their accomplishments, which often remain underrepresented and undervalued in public life.
This year’s title of Most Exemplary Croatian Rural Woman was awarded to Aleksandra Zajac from Vukovar-Srijem County. Danijela Jakopović from Koprivnica-Križevci County was named first runner-up, while Katica Katuša from Zadar County took third place.
(Photo: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries)
“Women in rural areas are the foundation of many family farms and an essential part of preserving our national and regional identity,” said State Secretary Beljo.
“Their work encompasses care for their families, farms, and communities, and their contribution to agriculture, entrepreneurship and sustainable development is invaluable.”
Celebrating the Backbone of Rural Croatia
Candidates for the title must be Croatian citizens aged between 25 and 65 who live in the countryside, enjoy respect in their communities, manage their households and agricultural estates responsibly, and produce agricultural goods, handicrafts or artworks.
Importantly, previous participants cannot compete again.
(Photo: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries)
Representing the Croatian Government and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Marinko Beljo, attended the event and congratulated all the participants.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries continues to be a proud sponsor and partner of the Most Exemplary Croatian Rural Woman project.
Ministry advisers and field experts play a key role in motivating and organising candidates from each county, as they work closely with rural women and understand their vital role in local economies and community life.
(Photo: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries)
Beljo praised all contestants for their commitment, saying their dedication and success embody the spirit of sustainable Croatian rural life.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to creating conditions that empower women in rural areas to develop their potential further and continue contributing to the prosperity of their communities.