Few executives more aptly capture the essence of international cooperation; one such individual is Neven Roginić. In a time when business crosses national boundaries and teamwork is the measure of success. He is a bridge builder who is creating significant connections between individuals, sectors, and countries because to his extraordinary ability to combine vision and execution. He is changing the way that East and West interact in business, culture, and innovation as the Chairman of the UAE-Croatia Business Club.
A unique combination of academic rigor and entrepreneurial understanding shapes his leadership. With two Master’s degrees in civil engineering and agriculture, he is striking a balance between his extensive technical expertise and his creative intuition. His businesses, Format 3D and L33T Digital Agency, have led the way in bridging the gap between architectural visualization and digital storytelling, assisting international corporations and real estate developers in realizing their ambitious projects.
But what distinguishes him is his dedication to leadership with a purpose. He is a clear leader who is empowering his people while adhering to the principles of cooperation, trust, and long-term planning. The Croatian Business Council inside Dubai Chambers is becoming a key platform for bilateral expansion under his leadership; it is more than just a organization; it is a driver of success for all.
Roginić is promoting a leadership style based on contributions rather than titles in all of his endeavors. His narrative is about creating ecosystems rather than just enterprises. And in doing so, he is providing a convincing road map for leaders who want to make a lasting impression.
The Foundation Years
Born and raised in Croatia, Roginić’s journey began in a household that valued education, curiosity, and the freedom to chase one’s passions. His academic path reflects this diverse thinking—holding dual Master’s Degrees in Civil Engineering and Agriculture, a combination that might seem unusual but speaks to his early fascination with both structural systems and sustainable development.
“My journey has been anything but linear, but always deeply driven by a desire to build, connect, and create lasting value.” he reflects
This foundation led him to the prestigious halls of MIT in Boston, where he became a PhD candidate in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Yet even as he pursued advanced academic credentials, his entrepreneurial spirit was already taking shape.
The Digital Transformation
The birth of L33T Digital Agency marked Roginić’s entry into the world of digital storytelling. Founded on the belief that creativity, when combined with technology, can transform how people see and experience the world, the agency began as a full-service digital marketing platform helping brands craft their identity and build meaningful online presence.
“We don’t just ‘show’ projects, we translate them into stories that people can emotionally connect with, long before construction even begins.” he explains,
This philosophy proved prescient. As the agency grew, working with global clients across tech, hospitality, and lifestyle sectors, he noticed a critical gap in the market. High-value projects, particularly in real estate and architecture, needed more than traditional marketing they needed to be brought to life visually.
Enter Format 3D, his second venture. This specialized studio focuses on architectural visualization, cinematic renderings, and virtual experiences, helping real estate developers, architects, and designers present their visions in ways that spark imagination and drive investment.
The Middle East Connection
The expansion into the UAE marked a pivotal moment in Roginić’s career. The region’s unique blend of innovation and ambition proved to be the perfect testing ground for his companies’ European creativity and global business strategy.
“It’s a place where ambition meets execution and where our approach found strong resonance.” he notes.
But he saw something deeper than just market opportunity. He recognized the potential for meaningful, long-term collaboration between the UAE and Croatia two regions with complementary strengths and shared values of innovation and growth.
This vision led to the establishment of the UAE-Croatia Business Club, a non-profit initiative dedicated to fostering business, cultural, and investment ties between the two regions. What started as a networking platform is now evolving into something far more significant.
Breaking New Ground
In a historic development, Roginić’s work has culminated in the establishment of the Croatian Business Council within Dubai Chambers the first official Croatian business body in the UAE. This milestone is representing more than symbolic recognition; it represents a structured platform for long-term trade and investment collaboration.
The impact extends beyond paperwork and protocols. Currently, he is working in close collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Economy to organize a delegation of verified Emirati investors to Croatia. This initiative, led and supported by the Ministry itself, aims to present high-potential Croatian projects and deepen economic ties in a strategic, institutional manner.
“We’re not just facilitating business deals. We’re creating frameworks for sustainable, long-term partnerships that benefit both regions.” he emphasizes.
Navigating Crisis and Opportunity
The COVID-19 pandemic might have derailed many businesses, but for Roginić’s companies, it became a moment of acceleration rather than disruption. Both Format 3D and L33T Digital Agency were already built on digital-first principles, positioning them advantageously when the world suddenly shifted online.
“While many traditional sectors struggled, digital marketing actually experienced significant rise. Brands that had relied on in-person interactions suddenly needed to rethink their entire strategy.” he recalls.
Format 3D saw similar growth. With travel halted and real estate projects facing delays, the demand for high-quality 3D visualizations, virtual tours, and remote presentations skyrocketed. What was once considered “nice-to-have” became essential.
The key strategy during this period was speed and adaptability. “We listened closely to what clients needed in real time, restructured internal workflows for full remote collaboration, and invested in tools that boosted productivity and creativity even from a distance.” he explains.
The Recognition Factor
Roginić’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed. The American Design Award, an international recognition in his field, validated his companies’ commitment to excellence and innovative visual storytelling. But for him, the real validation comes from the trust and loyalty of his team and the meaningful relationships built through shared ambition.
“Awards and recognition are appreciated, but legacy is built through contribution, and that’s what drives everything I do.” he says,
Leadership Philosophy
For someone who manages multiple companies across different time zones and cultures, Roginić has developed a unique approach to leadership and work-life integration. Rather than seeking perfect balance, he focuses on long-term clarity about what truly matters.
“I believe in integration, not separation. My professional work isn’t something that pulls me away from my personal life, it’s part of who I am. When I align my work with my values, it doesn’t feel like I’m juggling two worlds.” he explains.
His leadership style emphasizes delegation and empowerment. He believes that when leaders trust the people, they work with and give them space to grow, they free themselves from micromanagement and foster a healthier dynamic, both professionally and personally.
The Passion Behind the Purpose
What drives Roginić most is the passion for building meaningful connections between people, ideas, cultures, and industries. This passion extends beyond business success to mentorship and empowering others.
“Whether it’s my team, clients, or young entrepreneurs I meet along the way, I believe in sharing knowledge and creating space for others to grow. Success is most fulfilling when it’s shared.” he says.
This philosophy has shaped his approach to the UAE-Croatia Business Club and the Croatian Business Council. Rather than being exclusive networks, they’re designed as platforms where others can thrive and benefit from the bridge-building approach that is shaping his career over these years.
Looking Forward
As Roginić continues to expand his influence in connecting the UAE and Croatian business ecosystems, his message to aspiring leaders is clear: lead with clarity, humility, and purpose.
“Clarity means understanding where you’re going and why. Leadership is not about knowing all the answers but about asking the right questions and creating an environment where others feel safe to contribute their best ideas.” he advises.
His practical advice emphasizes the importance of relationships and resilience. He often highlights that no leader succeeds alone, and underscores the value of treating people with respect, keeping one’s word, and thinking long-term. According to him, a strong network, a dependable team, and a solid reputation are the leader’s greatest assets.
The Bridge Builder’s Legacy
Today, Neven Roginić is standing as more than just a successful entrepreneur. He’s become a bridge builder in the realest sense connecting not just two countries, but two ways of thinking about international business collaboration.
His companies, Format 3D and L33T Digital Agency, continue pushing the boundaries of digital storytelling and architectural visualization. The UAE-Croatia Business Club and the Croatian Business Council are representing institutional frameworks that will outlast any individual business cycle.
For those considering expansion into the UAE market, Roginić offers a direct message: companies should not venture in alone. He emphasizes that while the region presents immense opportunities, success relies heavily on understanding the local business culture, building the right partnerships, and strategically communicating their value. As he continues to build bridges between cultures, industries, and continents, he embodies a simple yet powerful philosophy: “Build with intention. Lead with heart.”
In a world increasingly connected yet often divided, his story is serving as a reminder that the most meaningful success comes not from what we achieve alone, but from what we enable others to accomplish together.
