The Croatians of New York & Los Angeles 

Over 12 years ago, three young teenagers found themselves about to embark on a journey filled with culture, new beginnings, and a friendship to last a lifetime.   Separate coasts did not break up this trio.  In the midst of the then new blossoming world of the internet, keeping in touch was only a click away.  They were able to e-mail pictures, chat about their summers spent together in Croatia, and keep up with each others’ daily lives. 

They found themselves searching for others just like them.  They started to search into the now infamous “Croatia ” chat room via AOL.  Innocent, wide eyed, and just plain curious, this trio just thought they were simply exploring a new phase of the internet whilst meeting new people.  Little did they know that over a decade later their young curiosity was really a form of networking. 

They started to travel back and forth from coast to coast.  NY would visit LA’s Croatian festivals.  LA would come and visit NY for numerous concerts and New Year’s events.  Together they would travel to Toronto, Cleveland, Chicago —wherever the soccer tournaments and kolo festivals were, they were there.  The next few years were spent on airfares, meeting new people, and really learning about their culture.  Politics aside, their background became their passion.

Now, all grown up and working professionals, Diane, Alxious and Danny realized the Croatian Community is not how it used to be.  As teenagers, they were excited about their culture.  Older brother and sisters would take them to local center events.  Families would attend gatherings together. Today, mothers and fathers reminisce about the “good ol’ days” when Croatians got together to celebrate their backgrounds.  What happened to the picnics?  What has happened to the dances?  What is happening with our community?

Welcome to the birth of the CNYLA.  A membership built around the passion of where you come from and keeping your roots alive.  Our objective is not only to promote education and unity amongst young professionals, but also teach and become an example to the next generation.  With all of our separate communities joining together, we can accomplish that goal.