RIT Croatia students harvest success at International Tourism Hackathon
Tita Butić, Antonela Rodić, Lea Gugić (from left to right) receiving their reward at the 1st International T365 Tourism Hackathon in Opatija
A high-achieving team of RIT Croatia students from the Hospitality and Tourism Management program —Antonela Rodić, Lea Gugić, and Tita Butić—mentored by Dr. Marlena Ćukteraš, has earned 3rd place at the prestigious 1st International T365 Tourism Hackathon in Opatija. Their winning concept tackled the central theme: "Innovating for Year-Round Tourism – Sustainable, Smart & Resilient."
The Idea: A Digital Link to Local Life
The team’s core idea was a digital platform connecting visitors with locals in the Dubrovnik-Neretva region for authentic, off-season agricultural experiences. Student Lea Gugić explained the exchange: "Tourists help with the harvest and receive part of the produce, while locals gain support and income". This simple, yet powerful, solution promotes year-round tourism, reduces waste, and preserves traditions.
The "Aha! Moment" came from a deep understanding of community needs. As Lea recalled, the team realized there was no platform connecting the struggle of older families to harvest crops with tourists who actively seek authentic rural experiences.
The Hackathon Challenge: Focus and Teamwork
The intense 24-hour development period was a test of focus and collaboration. Tita Butić noted that the biggest challenge was not the lack of time, but the critical need to "decide on a single, well-defined concept" out of numerous possibilities. They had to rapidly refine their idea from a broad concept into a viable, pitch-ready business model in a pressure-cooker environment, requiring immediate, decisive action from all three members. Once that clarity was achieved, the rest of the process—from creating the business model (Tita) to graphic design (Lea) and deep research (Antonela)—flowed smoothly, showing great synergy.
Faculty mentor Dr. Marlena Ćukteraš affirmed the value of this collaboration, emphasizing that the "biggest reason for their success was their mutual support and unity". She noted their ability to present their idea "with great passion and confidence, which deeply impressed both the audience and the jury".
RIT Croatia’s Role and Mentor’s Guidance
The students credit RIT Croatia’s focus on practical application for their success. Antonela Rodić highlighted how key courses, such as Strategic Management and Customer Experience Management, provided the necessary framework. She specifically pointed to the extensive "public speaking assignments across various classes" as the critical factor that built their confidence for the final pitch.
When asked about the role of her mentor, Antonela described Prof. Ćukteraš's support as "insightful and practical guidance" that never stifled their creative freedom.
Dr. Ćukteraš confirmed the importance of this real-world application, stating that events like the Hackathon give students the opportunity to "turn what they learn in the classroom into real, concrete projects". This experience, she concluded, not only builds their confidence but "better prepares them for the challenges that await after graduation".
