UNITED MACEDONIAN ANNUAL REPORT / 2016

1 CONTACT umd

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@UnitedMacedonianDiaspora

@UMDiaspora

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United (UMD)

@UMDiaspora

UMD Headquarters UMD UMD Australia 1510 H Street, NW, Suite 900 Attn: Mr. Jim Daikos P.O. Box 3122 Washington, D.C. 20005 160 Konrad Crescent Unit 1 Hawthorne, VIC 3122 Phone: (202) 350-9798 Markham, Ontario L3R 9T9 Phone: 0438 385 466 [email protected] Phone: 1-800-UMD-9583 [email protected] [email protected] 2 04/ WHO WE ARE

05/ WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

06/ ADVOCACY

09/ CHARITABLE EFFORTS

CULTURAL PRESERVATION 11/ & PROMOTION

14/ LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

24/ UMD’S 40 UNDER 40

25/ POLICY & EDUCATION

28/ UMD VOICE

29/ UMD ENDOWMENT

31/ 2016 MACEDONIAN COMPANIONS

32/ LETTER FROM UMD’S TREASURER

33/ 2016 FINANCIAL REPORT

34/ 2016 UMD GLOBAL LEADERSHIP

3 Founded in 2004, the United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) is a leading international non-partisan organization promoting the interests and needs of Macedonians and Macedonian communities worldwide.

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., UMD’s presence is felt throughout the U.S., Australia, Canada, and Europe, with membership spanning six continents.

OUR VISION We envision an infuential, respected, and united Macedonian diaspora committed to building and sustaining the global Macedonian community.

OUR OBJECTIVES • Safeguarding ’s name and the human rights of all Macedonians around the world

• Unifying the Macedonian diaspora

• Promoting universal ideals of peace, freedom, self-determination, equality, and justice

• Advancing ethnic Macedonian heritage and identity

• Preserving Macedonian traditions via educational, social, and charitable programs

4 Advocacy at home and abroad. Critical development of the next generation of lead- ership. Ventures in business and industry, as well as pol- icy and diplomacy, have kept

UMD members busy.

5 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

AUSTRALIA

ADVOCACY

In the frst week of Australia’s 2016 federal election campaign, a delegation from UMD Australia, headed by UMD Australia Direc- tor Ordan Andreevski, completed briefngs at Parliament House in Canberra with the foreign policy advisors to Prime Minister Mal- colm Turnbull, the Leader of the Opposition Bill Shorten, and the Leader of the Australian Greens, Senator Richard Di Natale. Te purpose was to explore strategies, opportunities and challenges for building closer ties with Macedo- nia and its diaspora in Australia and to generate stronger multipar- ty support for a new policy to- wards Macedonia and its diaspora. In Canberra, UMD launched its Guide for Organising the Austra- lian Macedonian Community for the 2016 Federal Election.

At the end of September, the University of Melbourne held a conference called Di- asporas in Action: Working Together for Peace, Devel- opment, and Humanitarian Response, bringing together key researchers, business leaders, policy makers, diplomats and international development agencies. UMD Australia Director Ordan Andreevski presented on Ad- vancing Australia Macedonia Economic Links. ■

6 UNITED STATES

From left, Congressman Alex Mooney (R-WV), Congressman Randy Weber (R-TX), and Congressman Ted Lieu (D- CA). Congressional Macedonian Caucus Grows to 27 Members

ADVOCACY

In 2016, the Congressional UMD encourages the Macedo- Caucus on Macedonia and nian-American community to Macedonian- saw an continue working hard to ad- increase to 27 members with the vance the U.S-Macedonia rela- additions of Congressman Alex tionship. Trough collaboration, Mooney (R-WV), Congress- we will ensure that our voice man Randy Weber (R-TX), and is represented in all sectors of Congressman Ted Lieu (D-CA). American society. ■ Tis is the largest the caucus has been since its inception in 2011. It encompasses 15 states, one territory, 15 Republicans, and 12 Democrats.

7 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR Testimony to Congress on U.S. Foreign Assistance to Macedonia ADVOCACY

On March 24th, UMD President Meto- dija A. Koloski and Senior International Policy & Diplomacy Fellow Gavin Kopel submitted written testimony to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, UMD Engages With Foreign Operations, and Related Pro- grams. Te testimony, submitted for the U.S. Department of State Congressional record as part of an open call for comment on the foreign assistance ADVOCACY budget for fscal year 2017, highlight- ed the importance of ongoing bilateral In November, UMD President programs for Macedonia’s development. Metodija A. Koloski, joined by In addition, UMD focused on the need UMD member Zlata Unerko- for further assistance in three key areas: va, met with the State Depart- education, strengthening democratic pro- ment’s Director of the Ofce cesses, and continuing economic growth of South Central European Af- for rural areas. fairs, Matthew A. Palmer, and the Macedonia Desk Ofcer the context of the forthcoming In April, UMD held a meeting with Elaine M. Hensle, to discuss December 11th elections. Tomas O. Melia, Assistant Adminis- U.S.-Macedonia relations and trator of USAID for Europe & Eurasia. the ways in which the Mace- On November 28th, UMD During the meeting, Melia and Koloski, donian-American commu- President Koloski met with along with Senior Fellow Gavin Kopel nity can help strengthen the Deputy Assistant Secretary and Fellow Veronika Tomova, discussed partnership between the two for European and Eurasian USAID programs in Macedonia, high- countries. Afairs, Hoyt Yee, at the State lighting the success of such programs as Department. Koloski and Macedonia Connect and Primary Educa- Te group discussed the U.S. Yee discussed the upcoming tion Project. ■ government’s commitment to Macedonia’s Euro-Atlantic elections – a critical test for integration and the ongoing the potential of Euro-Atlantic political crisis in Macedonia in integration. ■ 8 Ajvar 5K Proceeds Donated to Emanuil Plus to Help Children With Cerebral Palsy

CHARITABLE EFFORTS

Ajvar 5K is UMD’s annual signature charita- ble event. Tis year’s benefciary was Emanuil Plus, a , Macedonia-based organization providing help and services to 16 children with cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Nearly 500 people, over 60 sponsors and donors, and dozens of volunteers made the 2016 Ajvar 5Ks, held in Columbus, , Garfeld, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C, a great suc- cess.

In December, Ajvar 5K Project Director Ana Emanuil Plus. Tank you to the organizers and to all who Dukoska travelled to Bitola where she pre- participated in Ajvar 5K [in] some way. Your commitment sented Emanuil Plus President Beti Bulakovs- and attention to these children is already making a signifcant ka with a check for $11,500. Tese proceeds diference in their lives,” said Bulakovska. were collected from the various races held across the United States. Over the course of Te Detroit Ajvar 5K, in partnership with the United Mace- two days, Dukoska met with all the children donian-Americans of Detroit, the Macedonian American from the organization and delivered aid pack- Student Associations of , and UMD’s young leaders ages to each family. program, Generation M, raised $8,500, which will aid the Center for Infants in Bitola and the Bardovci Psychiatric Hos- “I cannot fnd adequate words to express pital in Skopje, Macedonia. ■ my appreciation and that of all members of 9 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

UMD Provides Critical Flood Relief Funds to Macedonia

CHARITABLE EFFORTS

In August 2016, devastating fash foods hit Macedo- Stajkovci hospital, which has two doctors, two nurses, nia, tragically taking 24 lives and displacing over 1,000 and serves a population of approximately 2,500 people, people. UMD immediately responded by launching a and will be completed in 2017. #SupportMacedonia food relief grassroots campaign, including two events in which we raised over $33,000. A team of UMD Generation M volunteers, led by Filip Jotevski and Trajce Nikolov, took time out of their Within three days of the foods, UMD sent $17,000 summer holidays to assist in the cleanup eforts in to the Macedonian Red Cross for their humanitarian Cento and Stajkovci. Te villagers were greatly appre- eforts. Te rest of the funds were used to renovate the ciative and welcoming.

10 D.C. Macedonian Masquerade Celebrates Its Eleventh Year

CULTURAL PRESERVATION & PROMOTION

Over 200 guests attended UMD’s 11th Annual Macedonian Old-New Year’s Masquerade Celebra- tion – “Vasilica,” at the Embassy of Macedonia in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, January 18, 2016. Proceeds raised during the evening beneft UMD’s scholarship and internship programs. Te event was an opportunity for D.C. area residents to experience Macedonian culture, music, and food, including the traditional homemade Orthodox New Year’s poga- cha (bread). ■

11 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

front of 100 guests from the U.S. wine, restaurant, and Smithsonian hospitality industry. UMD Advisory Council Member Dana Klein and UMD Florida Regional Representative Macedonian Music CD Mishko Josifov spearheaded this event. ■ CULTURAL PRESERVATION & PROMOTION Macedonian Art & In July, UMD organized the Skopje, Macedonia pro- motion of the frst-ever Macedonian music CD of the Culture Weekend Held Smithsonian Folkways Recordings at the Museum for the Revolutionary Fight. Speeches were made by the in Florida Minister for Culture, Elizabeta Kancevska-Milevska, CULTURAL PRESERVATION the CD producer Martin Koenig, and UMD President & PROMOTION Koloski. ■ In March, UMD held its 3rd Annual “Making Connec- tions from Miami to Macedonia” networking reception International Women’s at Bakehouse Art Complex in Miami, FL, drawing over a hundred guests. Te event was hosted by UMD Day Celebrated Advisory Council Member Nicholas Taw, renowned Skopje and Miami-based artist Irena Gapkovska, the CULTURAL PRESERVATION Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Mace- & PROMOTION donia for Southern Florida, UMD Advisory Council Member Dana Klein, and UMD’s Florida Regional On March 8th, UMD hosted its frst International Representative Mishko Josifov. Women’s Day Happy Hour at Earls in Tysons Corner, Virginia to celebrate Macedonian women and their At the reception, UMD recognized Lena Gogovska role in our society. ■ for her long-time passion and dedication to the Mace- donian community in Florida. For over two decades Gogovska has played a leading role in organizing ac- tivities and projects, which aim to expand Macedonian cultural awareness in Florida.

On March 5th, a screening of Shadows by award-win- ning Macedonian director Milcho Mancevski was held at Cinema Paradiso in Hollywood, Florida. ■

Wines of Macedonia CULTURAL PRESERVATION & PROMOTION

In October, our Miami team organized a Wines of Macedonia promotion of six Macedonian wines in

12 UMD Rockin’ Party in Toronto Grows Even More Popular

CULTURAL PRESERVATION & PROMOTION

In June, the second annual UMD Rockin’ Party, hosted by Elizabeth Naumovski and Natasha Denkovski, drew over 150 people to the Ashbridge’s Bay Yacht Club in Toronto to dance the night away and raise money for UMD’s philanthropic eforts. ■

UMD Tribute to Esma Macedonian Folk Redzepova - Macedonia’s Performance in D.C.

Music Legend CULTURAL PRESERVATION & PROMOTION CULTURAL PRESERVATION & PROMOTION On September 25th, UMD arranged for the Goce Delchev Macedonian Folk Dance Ensemble of Sts. Kiril UMD, with profound sadness, mourned the passing of and Metodij Macedonian Orthodox Church in Cedar Esma Redzepova – the Queen of the Gypsies and Ro- Grove, to perform two dances: “Macedonian mani Music, NPR’s 50 Great Voices in the World, and traditional wedding” and “Biljana platno beleshe” during Macedonia’s fnest and most talented music legend. the 14th Annual DC Turkish Festival Featuring Line Esma passed away on December 11th at the age of 73 Dance for Peace before thousands in the audience. ■ afer a short illness.

UMD had the great honor to host Esma Redzepova for a concert on April 23rd in New Jersey on her last tour to the United States. She also performed at the re- nowned Kennedy Center and the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. ■

13 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

14 LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT For a second year in a row, UMD, in partnership with the Macedonian Center for International Cooperation (MCIC), held its exciting summer program for col- lege students of Macedo- nian heritage – Birthright Macedonia – from July ternships that aligned with Trough Birthright Mace- 8-29, 2016. their interests. donia, UMD and MCIC cultivate new talent and Four participants from Internships were held in new voices for Macedonia Canada (Sonya Shirly Ar- the Cabinet of the Minister as well as form personal rigo, Kristina Dimitrievski, for Foreign Investments, bonds between our youth Ryan Anthony Neceski, Jerry Naumof, the Faculty and their homeland. While Colin Noel Owen), and of Veterinary Medicine at in Macedonia, partici- two from the United States Ss. Cyril and the Metho- pants had the opportunity (Betsy Amelia Badders, dius University Institute to tour Macedonia’s rich Kevin Donald Sperof), of Reproduction, EuroBP, historical sites, visit Lake were immersed in the fab- the Museum of the Mace- Ohrid and Prilep, and at- ric of Macedonian society donian Struggle for Sover- tend the famous Galichnik for three weeks. In Skopje, eignty and Independence, wedding. ■ they resided with a host and MCIC. family, and completed in-

15 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

Generation M LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Generation M is UMD’s next responsibilities, and explore generation program for educat- careers in public policy, govern- ing, empowering, and uniting ment and media, among other Macedonian youth around the areas. globe. It aims to bring together young people with Macedonian In 2016, UMD’s Board of Di- heritage through social media, rectors appointed the inaugural networking events, and annual Generation M Board of Direc- leadership conferences in the tors. Coinciding with the an- U.S. and Canada. Our goal is to nouncement of the new Board, invest heavily in our diaspora’s Generation M launched a web- human resources, educating our site especially for young Mace- communities and inspiring our donians: www.GenerationM.org youth to remain committed to and www.UMDGenM.org. ■ their heritage, meet their civic 16 FILIP JOTEVSKI Global Chairman

MARIO HRISTOVSKI Chairman of U.S. Operations

KRISTINA DIMITRIEVSKI Chairwoman of Canadian Operations

ANGELA GJEKANOVIKJ Chairwoman of European Operations

ALEKSANDER VASILEVSKI Vice-Chairman of U.S. Operations

TRAJCE NIKOLOV Vice-Chairman of Canadian Operations

PETAR PETROVSKI Vice-Chairman of European Operations

FILIP SIMESKI Secretary

NATASHA CAROVSKA Creative Director

ACE STANKOVSKI Director of Outreach

ALEX ATANASOVSKI At-Large Member

KATERINA GORGIEVSKA At-Large Member

MIRJANA KUZMANOVSKI At-Large Member

DILLON OGNENOVSKI At-Large Member

ELENA TEMELKOVA At-Large Member 17 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

felds including law, accounting, fnance, medicine, Generation M in education, and foreign afairs. Detroit and Toronto In April, Generation M Canada held its own mixer at Macedonian-owned restaurant, Montecito, in Toronto, LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Canada serving as an opportunity for Birthright Mace- donia alumni and this year’s participants, to share their In March, Generation M held a social mixer in down- experiences from participating in this fantastic pro- town Detroit bringing together young Macedonians gram. Guests from all over the Greater Toronto Area who aspire to make an impact in the community and were in attendance, as well as others from , USA, ofering a unique atmosphere for members to build and London, England. friendships and interact with professionals and com- munity leaders. Following the mixer, Generation M Canada held a Birthright Macedonia info session in Toronto. Te guest of honor was world-renowned pianist of First-Generation Birthright Alumni, Filip Jotevski Macedonian heritage, Simon Trpceski. Te Consul and Natasia Kalajdziovski spoke to participants of General of the Republic of Macedonia to Detroit, Ele- this summer’s Birthright program. Tey described the na Zarkovska, and United Macedonian-Americans of application process, their experiences, their respective Detroit President Tom Bayof attended, as did a wide internships, and most importantly, their newfound array of Macedonian-American professionals from connection to their Macedonian heritage. ■ 18 Greek Civil War of 1946-1949. It explores the direc- Generation M Spreads tor’s family history through the personal narrative of his father, Mito, who was forced to fee from his birth Macedonian Cause to village of Sheshtevo. Afer the screening, the audience engaged in a discussion with Professor Keith Brown of Rhode Island the Tomas J. Watson, Jr. Institute for International and Public Afairs. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Te following day, UMD’s Pittsburgh Representative During the month of October, the Macedonian Asso- and Director of International Student Services at LaRo- ciation at Brown University, a chapter of Generation che College, Dr. Natasha Garrett, gave a lecture titled M, organized two events promoting Macedonia. ‘In Translation: Language, Home and Identity in the Globalized World,” about transnationalism and living On October 17th, they hosted a screening of the across cultures. Polish documentary “Te Macedonian” by Macedo- nian-Polish cinematographer Petro Aleksowski. Te Te Macedonian Association at Brown University is documentary was released in 2013 to commemorate excited to continue reafrming the Macedonian values the 65th anniversary of the forced feeing of about and spreading the word about Macedonia on Brown’s 1700 children from Aegean Macedonia to Poland, campus and in its broader community. ■ and many more to other parts of the world during the

19 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

2016 UMD Internship Program Hosted Largest Class of 14 Students in Washington, D.C.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Te International Poli- cy and Diplomacy Fel- lowship program in the Washington, D.C. ofce is in its 8th year with Fellows conducting 1-6 month fellowships and serves as an important resource for the Macedo- nian diaspora community.

Te 2016 cohort included: Christine Allston, Sahna Anand, Amber Castro, Nicholas DeMichele, Dianna Green, Kristijan Fidanovski, Liam Galla- gher, Gavin Kopel, Shan- non McKelvie, George W. Myers, Mama Sow, Veronika Tomova, and Alexis Zickafoose, and Luka Petrusevski working remotely from Canada. Fellowship work focused on a robust schedule of both on site projects and as well as daily briefngs and events. sessions, events, and Fellows are equipped as well as peak greater UMD President Kolo- briefngs with ofcials with the requisite skills to interest in Macedonia. ■ ski helped fellows gain from the White House, further their profession- frst-hand insight into to U.S. Department of State, al careers. Te program global policy and interna- Congress, Macedonian is designed to enhance tional dialogue by work- Embassy, broader diplo- participation, facilitate a ing directly with various matic community, and the unique exposure to Wash- leaders and policymakers. non-governmental/think ington, D.C., and operate Fellows participated in tank sector. as training ground for professional development new community leaders

20 “Throughout the internship I learned so “My experience with UMD made me more much from Macedonian culture to best knowledgeable in both the workings of practices for networking in D.C. Overall it international relations and the functions helped me decide that I want to work for a of a nonproft organization. I would highly non-proft organization when I graduate uni- recommend it to anyone wishing to intern in versity. Working on the Ajvar 5Ks helped me Washington, DC.” connect on a deep level with Emanuil Plus, - Liam Gallagher our benefciary. The members of the dias- pora around the country that I worked with made me feel like a part of the Macedonian community.” Scholarships - Alexis Zickafoose LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

“My time at UMD gave me unparalleled UMD Canada awarded four John L. N. Bitove, C.M. access to the inner workings of Washington Heritage Scholarships to young promising Macedo- politics. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there nians pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies. and look forward to monitoring the contin- Te scholarship, named afer the champion for the ued success of the organization.” Macedonian people, the late John L. N. Bitove, C.M., has awarded over $60,000 since its inception in 2010. - Nicholas DeMichele

2016 BITOVE “This summer, I learned just how crucial SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS UMD’s fundraising and advocacy work is in these uniquely difcult times for Macedo- nia. Situated at the very core of D.C., UMD LISA EVANS - Canada is the utmost learning environment for any Criminology Program ambitious intern.” University of Toronto - Kristijan Fidanovski SARA GICHEVSKA - Canada “Being a UMD Fellow connected me with the Rotman Commerce Program movers-and-shakers of US foreign policy University of Toronto and immersed me in the discussions which will shape our future. The hands on experi- ence you get as a UMD fellow is truly invalu- ALEKSANDAR TRAJKOVSKI - Canada able.” Medical Doctor Program - George W. Myers Queen’s University

JOHN VIDOVICH - Australia “The best time I had in D.C by far, working Joint Masters Program in with such a talented, driven, and very wel- South-Eastern European Studies coming community.” Universities of Belgrade and Graz - Mama Sow 21 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR MALC2016 Asserts the Importance of Macedonian Diaspora Youth Engagement LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Te 3rd Annual Macedonian-American Leadership Conference (MALC2016) was held in Washington D.C. from June 9-11th. UMD and its young leaders program, Generation M, held the event and brought in leaders from Canada and the United States. Te conference opened with a reception at the Embassy of Macedonia to engage with Ambassador Vasko Nau- movski. Te following morning, students participated in a breakfast briefng with the Congressional Caucus on Macedonia; the caucus praised UMD’s eforts and highlighted the importance of rallying future genera- tions to assist the Macedonian community. Afer the briefng, the students met with representatives from both the Republican National Committee and the Democratic National Committee. Te students were able to ask questions and discuss the future implica- tions of the election results for the Macedonian-Amer- ican community.

Next, the students were given tours of the Library of Congress and the White House. Later in the afer- noon, Asher Mayerson, from the Ofce of Public En- gagement, gave a briefng from the White House and the State Department on three themes: foreign policy, immigration, and President Obama’s Supreme Court nomination of Merrick Garland.

Te foreign policy briefng included a panel of many experts and policy makers concerned with Macedonia and the greater Balkans region. Following up on the importance of preserving Macedonian culture and language, Dr. Biljana Belamaric Wilsey presented her online e-learning center, which provides interactive multimedia resources for learning, practicing, and teaching the . ■ 22 CMLC2016 Empowers Young Macedonians

LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Te 3rd Annual Canadi- the call to action, we were forthcoming methods Partner- Paliare Roland an-Macedonian Leader- there.” most efectively connect- Rosenberg Rothstein LLP, ship Conference (CMLC) ing Macedonians with criminal lawyer Alex- began on November Te second keynote one another. ander Karapancev, and 11th with a reception speaker, Vonna Bitove, UMD President Metodija at St. Clement of Ohrid Executive Director of the A Panel on Women’s A. Koloski. Macedonian Orthodox Bitove Foundation and Empowerment followed. Cathedral in Toronto. Te UMD Advisory Council Moderated by Professor To conclude CMLC2016, conference, organized by member, described her Christina Kramer; pan- attendees joined UMD UMD and Generation childhood involvement elists—Lovisa Owen, Sr. President Koloski and M’s Canada branches, in the Macedonian com- Project Manager- Branttel UMD Canada Director ofcially began the next munity and appealed Network, Natasha Den- Daikos for the 25th Anni- morning at the University Macedonians to advocate kovski, former-Mace- versary Gala of the Cana- of Toronto with opening for their heritage. She donian Top Model, and dian-Macedonian Histor- remarks by UMD Canada implored them to never Gen M’s Dimitrievski and ical Society at St. Clement Director Jim Daikos: “We give up: “Never listen to Temelkova—discussed of Ohrid Macedonian Or- cannot give up, nothing is negativity, never allow the role of women. Dimi- thodox Cathedral. Speak- impossible!” anyone to put you and trievski concluded, “we all ers included Nathaniel your goals down.” need to support … each Erskine-Smith, Professor Keynote speaker Ambas- other to be as successful Christina Kramer, CMHS sador Toni Dimovski, en- Tree thematic panels as possible, regardless of President Tony Markovs- couraged and praised the followed. gender.” ki, and UMD President connection of the Canadi- Koloski. Canadian M.P. an-Macedonian commu- “A Network of Macedo- “Bringing Macedonia Beaches-East York also nity: “what connects us is nians” consisted of Gener- into the 21st Century” presented a note from long lasting friendships.” ation M members Emilija explored law, politics, and Canadian Prime Min- Dimitrievski and Elena economics’ role in Mace- ster Justin Trudeau. Pete Generation M Global Temelkova, Generation donia’s future. Panelists Kondof and Virginia Chair Filip Jotevski and M’s Filip Jotevski, UMD included Ambassador Stoymenof received the Vice-Chair Canadian Canada’s Jim Daikos, and Dimovski, Consul Gen- CMHS Founders Award, Operations Trajce Niklov Founder/Executive Di- eral Jovica Palashevs- and Risto Stefov, Macedo- then spoke of his volun- rector of the Macedonian ki, UMD Canada’s Jim nian historian, received teer eforts afer Skopje’s Film Festival in Toronto, Daikos, Canadian Green the CMHS Silver Shield August foods. Jotevski Virginia Evans. Te panel Fund CEO John Kourtof, Award. ■ stated that “once we got discussed the current/ Chris Paliare, Founding

23 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

Angela Arsova Argie N. Bellio Marko Blazevski Anastasia Bogdanovski Blagica Bottigliero Michael Cklamovski Igor Danajlovski Damjan Daskaloski Ana David Vasil Dimovski Isabella Dymalovski Gjorgji Gjeorgjievski Borko Handjiski Zani Imetovski Aleksandar Jason Kostadinoski Gorgi Kozeski Dame Krcoski Vera Lalchevska Anthony Laskovski Sanja Lazarova-Molnar Ismail Lumanovski Emily Madden Natalie Markoff Dr. Monica Markovski Commerford Ashley Nestorovska Kat Nitsou Alexander Ordanis Zhikica Pagovski 2016 UMD Macedonian Andy Peykoff, Jr. Dimitar Popov Diaspora’s 40 Under 40 Tony Radevski Anthony Rizos LEADERSHIP Dean Smith Jared S. Smith UMD announced the 2016 Macedonian Diaspora’s 40 Under 40 List and Katerina Stamatova Petrovska recognized forty Macedonian role models from around the world who reinforce our community’s heritage and cultural values. Built through a Aleesia Stamkos process of nominations, the fnal honorees were selected by a selection Nicholas Tigulis committee. Te list recognizes the winners for their accomplishments in Zlata Unerkova their respective careers and encourages them to keep moving the commu- Alex Volkanovski nity forward and making a positive impact on society-at-large. ■ Emilija Zlatkovska 24 Name Recognition Security POLICY & EDUCATION POLICY & EDUCATION

A total of 137 nations have already recognized Mace- Macedonia, a unitary state within its existing borders, donia by its rightful and constitutional name. Under is distinct as being the only country in Southeast the rule of international law, there is no precedent Europe to have fully demarcated borders with all of granting to any government the power or authority to its neighbors post-1991. UMD urged the internation- dictate an independent sovereign nation what its name al community’s institutionalization of mechanisms, should be. claiming they are necessary in light of those who might threaten the stability, the economic develop- ment, and democratic process in Macedonia and UMD Called for End of “FYROM” Southeast Europe. Peace in Macedonia, and along Usage at Rio 2016 Olympics Macedonia’s borders, helps ensure lasting peace and stability in the wider region. Te Olympics games are held in high regard world- wide and have a tremendous impact on global afairs. UMD Hosts Macedonian 2016 Rio Olympics focused on promoting the core values of unity, respect for diversity, and the will for Parliment Speaker and change. While the belief in these tenets is respectable, Opposition Parliment Speaker the International Olympic Committee (IOC) contin- ued to turn a blind eye towards ’s disrespectful behavior, referring to Macedonia as “Te Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia” (FYROM). Tis hypocrisy was demonstrated through the “will for change” value; the IOC was unwilling to raise itself above politics. UMD called on the IOC to give world- wide recognition of the state of Macedonia under its constitutional name the Republic of Macedonia, which is irrefutable. ■

Human Rights On February 1st, UMD held a meeting with a Dele- gation of the Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, POLICY & EDUCATION which was in Washington, D.C. to attend the 64th National Prayer Breakfast. Te delegation included On June 20th – World Refugee Day - UMD commem- Parliament Speaker Trajko Veljanovski, the Deputy orated the anniversary of the Deca Begalci – the mass Speaker Renata Deskoska, and the Member of Par- exodus of Macedonian children refugees from Greece liament responsible for the Diaspora Pavle Sazdov. 72 years ago. UMD took the opportunity to remind UMD members from Washington, D.C., Maryland the world of Greece’s discriminatory laws against and Virginia exchanged opinions and views on the Macedonians, which are still in place today, and its stagnation in Macedonia, the democratic processes continued refusal to grant refugees repatriations and in the country, the migrant crisis, the international compensation for stolen property. reputation of Macedonia, and electoral reforms for elections and the right for diaspora members to vote in Macedonian elections. ■ 25 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

involvement in the crisis, as well as statements given by Macedonian ofcials on policy developments. As the bufer between Greece (an EU member state) and the rest of the EU to the north, Macedonia, not being an EU member itself, was expected to act in accordance with EU decisions while being given neither a seat at the table in the decision making process nor adequate funding from the international community.■

UMD Hosts Former UMD Briefngs on Migrant Macedonian First Lady Crisis in Congress and The Washington Post On February 5th, UMD held a Women’s Forum with the former First Lady of Macedonia, Mrs. Vilma Tra- UMD, the Southeast Europe Coalition, and the Adviso- jkovska of the Boris Trajkovski International Founda- ry Council for Bosnia and Herzegovina (ACBH), held tion to discuss ways UMD could help Macedonia. ■ a series of panel discussions April 12th and 13th on the topic of “Te Refugee Crisis: it’s impact on the US, Eu- rope, and our collective strength and security.” UMD Educates Policymakers on Syrian Refugee Crisis Te frst briefng was held in the U.S. Congress to educate policymakers about the challenges facing both On February 24th, UMD, with partner organization, refugees and the afected countries. Speakers included AJC ACCESS, organized a discussion on the mi- the Hungarian Ambassador H.E. Dr. Reka Szemerkery, grant crisis with the Macedonian Ambassador to the Macedonian Ambassador H.E. Dr. Vasko Naumovski, United States Dr. Vasko Naumovski moderated by Deputy Chief of Mission from the Austrian Embassy American Jewish Committee’s Director of Govern- Minister Christian Brunmayr, Professor at Indiana Uni- ment and International Afairs Jason Isaacson at the versity and expert on Muslim communities in Europe Macedonian Embassy. Te discussion was followed Dr. Frances Trix, and President of Refugees Internation- by an of-the-record dinner conversation with young al Michel Gabaudan. Jewish- and Macedonian-Americans with the Am- bassador. Te event marked the 20th anniversary of Te second briefng was held at the Washington Post Israeli and Macedonian relations. ■ building and consisted of a networking lunch and two panels facilitated by Clements Worldwide with the help of UMD member Ryan Turkaleski. Speakers consisted UMD Releases Special Report: of the Hungarian and Macedonian Ambassadors, the Macedonia’s Involvement Croatian Ambassador H.E. Josip Paro, Montenegrin Ambassador H.E. Srdjan Darmanovic, Sr. Vice President in the Migrant Crisis of the German Marshall Fund Ivan Vejvoda, and Dr. Frances Trix. In light of Macedonia’s decision to close its border in the face of the ongoing refugee crisis, UMD released Te Washington Diplomat featured the events in a story a special report titled “Macedonia’s Involvement in “Balkan Envoys Ponder Wider Implications of EU Refu- the Migrant Crisis,” in March. Te paper, authored gee Crisis” published on May 3rd.■ by UMD Fellow Liam Gallagher, analyzed the efects of the crisis on Southeast Europe, Macedonia’s own 26 UMD Roundtable: current and former politicians, political scientists and civic activists. Te frst panel was titled “25 years later: Macedonia at the Crossroads Macedonia’s place in the global family of nations.” Te On May 18th, the UMD hosted a roundtable discussion panelists summarized the biggest achievements and challenges to the global integration of independent “Macedonia at the Crossroads” focused on the current political crisis in Macedonia and its efects on EU/ Macedonia, with special emphasis on the name issue, NATO membership. Speakers included: Tanja Males- interethnic relations and gender equality. Te second ka, Chairwoman of the Executive Board and Founding panel was titled “Te greatest current challenges to Member of Reactor – Research in Action, and Robert Macedonia’s global integration,” with a goal to estab- lish the current and potential future trajectories in Benjamin, National Democratic Institute’s Senior Asso- ciate and the Regional Director of Central and Eastern Macedonian politics and society. ■ Europe Programs, and moderated by UMD’s President Koloski. Maleska evaluated the role of civil society in Immigration Macedonia, particularly women in local and national politics. Benjamin discussed NDI’s work with Macedo- POLICY & EDUCATION nia’s Parliament, political parties, and civil society, and ways to improve the political climate so as to put Mace- Macedonians have a saying “Tere are more Macedo- donia back on track for full Euro-Atlantic integration. ■ nians outside of Macedonia.” For centuries, Macedo- nians emigrated from the homeland due to conficts, UMD Panel: International wars, genocidal/discriminatory acts, and political and economic problems facing our people, homeland, and Republican Institute’s Ilina wider Southeast Europe region. Mangova on Current Macedonian Political Crisis 3rd Annual Immigrant On June 22nd, UMD hosted a discussion, “Macedonia’s Heritage Month Political Crisis: Seeking a Way Out,” with Ilina Mango- va, Program Director for the International Republican Institute (IRI) in Macedonia. Te discussion covered the current political situation, public opinion of gover- nance in Macedonia, and possible solutions to the issue at hand. Mangova explained that Macedonian citizens felt as if the country is at its highest level of instability; a level it has not seen since the 2001 confict. ■

25 Years of Macedonia: A Cause for Celebration But Also a During the month of June, UMD highlighted stories of Macedonian immigrants in conjunction with Im- Critical Juncture migrant Heritage Month organized by Welcome.us. On September 13th, UMD and the Macedonian Cen- Macedonians have helped make up and advance the ter for International Cooperation (MCIC) held a sym- fabric of our local communities. posium titled “25 years of Macedonia” at Holiday Inn, in Skopje, Macedonia, with seven panelists, including 27 WHAT WE’VE DONE THIS YEAR

On June 13th, UMD was a proud sponsor of Wel- Church founded by Macedonian-American families in come.us’ 3rd Annual Immigrant Heritage Month the region. ■ Congressional Celebration recognizing the signif- cant role immigrants have played in the rich fabric of American society. Over 400 guests gathered in the Russell Senate Ofce Building to celebrate their UMD Voice heritage and the plethora of immigrants in the United States of America. UMD President Koloski, POLICY & EDUCATION who serves on the Honorary Board of Welcome.us, emceed the evening. UMD Voice Magazine is a periodical maga- zine about all things Macedonian, includ- ing news, analysis, history, and culture, as well as interviews that celebrate the achievements of notable Macedonians and friends of Mace- donia. UMD Voice spearheaded by Dr. Natasha Garrett and On June 14th, UMD led a delegation of 15 Mace- Mario Hristovski was donian-Americans and friends of our community published in Summer 2016 and then turned into an on- to the White House to participate in the 3rd White line blog maintained by Generation M. 16 articles were House Heritage Day. More than 150 ethnic leaders published in 2016. from all over the United States gathered in the Eisen- hower Executive Ofce Building to listen to senior UMD Voice Magazine also conducted two articles prior White House ofcials speak on topics such as immi- to the November 2016 elections on Macedonian-Ameri- gration and U.S. foreign and domestic policy.■ cans Running for Ofce:

University of Michigan Economic Development Board of Regents Elections In November, Macedonia’s Ambassador Dr. Vasko : Proud of Her Macedonian Naumovski visited Fort Wayne, Indiana – one of Heritage, 1st in Family to Graduate from the oldest Macedonian communities in the United College States – at the invitation of UMD’s Indiana Repre- sentative Argie N Bellio to discuss Macedonia’s in- vestment opportunities before the Fort Wayne Eco- Garfeld, New Jersey City nomic Team and at the Indiana University-Purdue Council Elections University Fort Wayne campus - his visit garnered Nick Milevski: A Role Model Commu- a lot of local media coverage. He also attended the nity Leader of Strong Family Values and Macedonian Ball, and visited St. Nicholas Orthodox Proud Macedonian-American

28 Sons Lifetime & Daughters Visionaries of Macedonia The Bitove Foundation John and Elizabeth Anevski Marian and Michael Ilitch Goran and Divna Popovski Nicholas Thaw and Irena Gapkovska

In December, UMD, in partnership allows donors to include UMD in Preservation and Promotion; and with the Cleveland Foundation, their legacy and estate planning Charitable Eforts. created the United Macedonian process. Diaspora – Funding the Future To realize the return on investment Endowment Fund (“Fund”). Te Endowment will provide UMD required to sustain UMD’s annu- with fnancial resources to ensure al budget, UMD has set a goal of Te Cleveland Foundation, a his- that UMD can successfully accom- raising $10 million. UMD is seek- toric and world-renowned invest- plish its mission for generations to ing initial investments of $100,000 ment trust, will manage the Fund. come. Tat fnancial certainty will (Lifetime Visionaries), $50,000 Monetary gifs and proceeds in- strengthen the UMD administrative (Founder’s Circle), $25,000 (Chair- vested by the Cleveland Foundation infrastructure allowing the organi- man’s Circle), $15,000 (President’s will generate sufcient long-term zation to focus more exclusively on Circle), $10,000 (Sons and Daugh- resources for UMD’s continued its mission to build a stronger, more ters of Macedonia) or more per mission of promoting the interests collaborative, and successful glob- year or spread out over 2, 3, 5, and and needs of Macedonians and our al Macedonian community. Te 10 years. All Donations are Tax-De- communities worldwide. UMD was core objectives will continue to be: ductible. Tese generous donors founded 12 years ago to promote Policy & Education; Leadership De- will be recognized as Inaugural and safeguard the rights, common velopment (Generation M, Birth- Endowment Visionaries. ■ beliefs, culture, and heritage of right Macedonia, and Scholarship Macedonians. Tis partnership & Internship Programs); Cultural

29 UMD recognizes the generosity of our Macedonian Com- panions. Alexander the Great’s Companions were the most efective military cavalry unit of the ancient world. UMD’s Macedonian Companions are the most efective supporters of the global Macedonian cause.

Macedonian Companions provide vital fnancial support for UMD to continue preserving, promoting, and protecting the Macedonian heritage worldwide.

As a proud Macedonian Companion, you will help UMD to:

• Preserve our Macedonian name, identity, and culture; • Promote Macedonian interests to global policy makers; • Aid Macedonians in need through charitable projects; • Convey our rich historical and cultural legacies to the world and to our youth.

WHAT IS THE MACEDONIAN COMPANIONS PROGRAM?

Te Macedonian Companions program will ideally con- stitute 300 supporters, each bestowing to UMD a tax-de- ductible donation of $1,000 (or more) annually. Tese funds enable UMD to preserve Macedonia’s heritage and to champion our struggle for justice. Te UMD Advisory Council formed a Subcommittee to provide oversight and accountability of these funds on an ongoing basis.

30 macedonian companions LIST of DONORS

Anonymous George Markou Anonymous Aleksandar Mitreski Aleksandar Andreski Mark B. Mitskovski John and Elizabeth Anevski Dr. Anastas Mukoski Steve Anevski Glenn Murray in alphabetical Bill Argo Lisa Ilitch Murray order and only John Bitove Toby Murray those who donated Jordan Bitove Troy Murray Nick Bitove Tyler Murray a total of $1,000 Thomas J. Bitove, O.Ont. Dimitar Nasev or more in 2016 Vonna Bitove Stojan Nikolov Aleksandar Chevrevski Chris G. Paliare O.Ont., LSM, Jim Daikos LL.B., LL.M. Blaze Dimov Paul Pape Evelyn Dinu George Peters Chris Evanoff Elena Petroska Irena Gapkovska Gus Philippov Boris and Katarina Giourof Rob Sandolowich Dr. Robert Givelas Donald Sazdanoff Alexander Ilitch Mike Solakov Carole Ilitch Dr. Leon Speroff Christina Ilitch Mike Stakleff Chris Stanwyck Denise Ilitch, Esq. Dr. Chris Stefanovich Melanie Ilitch Nicholas Thaw Michael and Stan Thomas Michael Ilitch, Jr. Stojan Trajkov & Michael Ilitch, III Dusanka Delovska-Trajkova Nick Ilitch Marilyn Trentos Noelle Ilitch Zlatko Trifunoski Tatjana Jakovleska-Bonnet Greg Tsanis George Klas Lubi Uzunovski Dr. Jovan Laskovski Lou Vlasho Dr. C. Dan Mallin Mike and Robin Zafrovski

31 TREASURER’S REPORT

Dear Members, Friends, and Supporters,

As the Treasurer of UMD, I am pleased to submit this report of UMD’s fnancial condition and activi- ties during 2016.

2016 was a successful year, full with numerous and important projects for UMD, benefting the global Macedonian community. Some of these projects required the use of more fnancial and other resourc- es. We had numerous volunteers and interns that dedicated more than 1000 hours to UMD’s pro- grams. UMD strongly believes in investing in our community and you!

We closed the year with a positive change in net assets of $33,893. In 2016, UMD intentionally in- creased its volume in programs because of last year’s strategic reposition of our programs in order to better serve our members and community. UMD’s membership dues, donations and program revenue in 2016 amounted to $271,784 - a 28% increase since 2015. Te UMD Board of Directors and I closely monitored operating expenses.

Based on member suggestions and the board’s approval, UMD used 46% of the operational budget on educational and philanthropic programs and 39% on cultural programs. Educational and philanthrop- ic programs included: #SupportMacedonia food disaster relief eforts, Ajvar 5K races aiding children with cerebral palsy and epilepsy, MALC2016 and CMLC2016, Generation M, Birthright Macedonia, Bitove Scholarship, UMD’s internship program, hosting briefngs and roundtables at the UMD ofce and in the U.S. Congress, Immigrant Heritage Month, Skopje Symposium, and more. Cultural pro- grams included: the 11th Annual Masquerade, UMD Rockin’ Party, Macedonia promotion of Smith- sonian Macedonian Music CD, Macedonian Art and Cultural Weekend in Miami, and many other events throughout the year that promoted our wonderful and rich language, culture and traditions.

UMD remains ever vigilant in pursuit of revenue growth from all sources, which will further enhance its fnancial stability and allow for expansion of the many indispensable programs that UMD consis- tently provides. Tat is why in 2016, we created the UMD Funding the Future Endowment through the Cleveland Foundation.

UMD is committed to the highest standards of good stewardship and accountability, and will continue to act in a fscally responsible manner to safeguard UMD and its future. Once again, we thank you for your support of the vital work of UMD.

Your suggestions, thoughts and contributions are imperative to our programs and we would love to hear from you! Please e-mail me at [email protected] with any questions or suggestions.

UMD is a 501 (c) (3) not-for-proft organization, tax ID # 20-5182996.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give” - Anonymous

Lidija Stojkoska UMD Board Member and Treasurer

32 FINANCIAL REPORT

Statement of Activities - 2016 CONSOLIDATED UMD 2016 Operating Income

Revenue Special Events and Programs $ 75,885 28% 4%

Membership Dues and Donations 185,399 68% Special Events and 28% Other revenue 10,500 4% Programs Membership Dues and 68% Total Public Support and Other Revenue $ 271,784 100% Donations Other revenue

Operating Expenses UMD 2016 Operating Expenses Educational and Philanthropic Programs $ 109,443 46% Cultural and Other Programs 92,385 39% $23,719 Management and Administrative 23,719 10% $92,385 $12,345 Public Relations and Special Events 12,345 5% Educational and Philanthropic Programs

Cultural and Other Total Expenses $ 237,891 100% Programs

Management and Change in Net Assets $ 33,893 Administrative Public Relations and Special Events Statement of Activities - Retrospective Comparison $109,443

Revenue 2016 2015 2014 2013 2016 2015 2014 2013 Special Events and Programs $ 75,885 $ 89,579 $ 95,921 $ 31,747 28% 46% 31% 14% Membership Dues and Donations 185,399 105,105 213,907 187,724 68% 54% 69% 86% Other revenue 10,500 - - - 4% 0% 0% 0%

Total Public Support and Other Revenue $ 271,784 $ 194,684 $ 309,828 $ 219,471 100% 100% 100% 100% 139.6% 62.84% 117.45% 83.20% 0.71632 -0.28368 Operating Expenses Educational and Philanthropic Programs $ 109,443 $ 110,427 $ 153,824 $ 168,035 46% 48% 57% 68% Cultural and Other Programs 92,385 54,195 66,217 31,236 39% 24% 25% 13% Management and Administrative 23,719 35,028 26,344 27,158 10% 15% 10% 11% Public Relations and Special Events 12,345 29,804 23,186 20,824 5% 13% 9% 8%

Total Expenses $ 237,891 $ 229,453 $ 269,571 $ 247,253 100% 100% 100% 100%

Change in Net Assets $ 33,893 $ (34,769) $ 40,257 $ (27,782)

UMD Fund Usage Analysis UMD Income Sources Analysis

23,186 - 12,345 26,344 20,824 23,719 29,804 27,158 10,500 35,028 66,217 31,236 92,385 54,195 - - 213,907 $168,035 185,399 $153,824 105,105 $109,443 $110,427 187,724

2016 2015 2014 2013 $75,885 $89,579 $95,921 $31,747 Public Relations and Special Events 2016 2015 2014 2013 Management and Administrative Special Events and Programs Membership Dues and Donations Cultural and Other Programs Other revenue Educational and Philanthropic Programs

33 2016 umd GLOBAL LEADERSHIP

BOARD DIRECTORS & OFFICERS

Stojan Nikolov, Chairman Metodija A. Koloski, President Aleksandar Mitreski, Vice President George Peters, Secretary Lidija Stojkoska, Treasurer Ordan Andreevski, Australia Director Jim Daikos, Canada Director Trajko Papuckoski, U.S. Director Vera Najdovska, Cultural Director Dimitar Nasev, Economic Development Director Zhikica Pagovski, Policy and Strategy Director Filip Jotevski, Generation M Liaison to UMD Board

ADVISORY COUNCIL

Ambassador Ljubica Z. Acevska, Honorary George Atanasoski Vonna Bitove Peter Dallas Chris Evanoff Dana L. Klein George Markou Jason Miko Aleksandar Mitreski, Chair Mark B. Mitskoski Minister Jerry Naumoff, Honorary Elizabeth Naumovski Chris Paliare Jim Pavle Chris Stanwyck Vera Stavroff Thomas N. Taneff Minister Gligor Tashkovich (ret.), Honorary Nicholas Thaw Marilyn Trentos Lou Vlasho, Honorary 34 REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

Vera Arsova, New York Argie N. Bellio, Indiana Nikola Cuculovski, Atlanta, Igor Danajlovski, Dusseldorf, Germany Ana Dukoska, New Jersey Dr. Natasha Garrett, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Gjorgji Gjeorgjievski, Seattle, Washingon Mishko Josifov, Florida Marija Malinovska, Los Angeles, California Gordana Mirkoska, Washington, D.C. Konstantin Nakovski, Cleveland, Ohio Aleksandra Nasteska, Montreal, Quebec Robert Pasquale, Perth, Australia Goce Peroski, Sttutgart, Germany Dejan Petkovski, Houston, Texas

GENERATION M BOARD

Filip Jotevski, Global Chairman Mario Hristovski, Chairman of U.S. Operations Kristina Dimitrievski, Chairwoman of Canadian Operations Angela Gjekanovikj, Chairwoman of European Operations Aleksander Vasilevski, Vice-Chairman of United States Operations Trajce Nikolov, Vice-Chairman of Canadian Operations Petar Petrovski, Vice-Chairman of European Operations Filip Simeski, Secretary Natasha Carovska, Creative Director Ace Stankovski, Director of Outreach Alex Atanasovski, At-Large Member Katerina Gorgievska, At-Large Member Mirjana Kuzmanovski, At-Large Member Dillon Ognenovski, At-Large Member Elena Temelkova, At-Large Member

35 UNITED MACEDONIAN DIASPORA