MENT Ljubljana

Meet the Fourth Generation of New Faces! 🍸

We are excited to unveil the latest lineup of talent for the fourth year of the New Faces initiative. This year’s cohort brings together ten incredible professionals under 30 from across Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia. Out of more than 140 applications – a new record – these individuals were selected for their local impact, their drive, and their potential to shape the future of the music industry.

Who is in the class of 2026?
Our new cohort represents the next wave of journalists, bookers, managers, and festival organizers who are already active in their local communities. Beyond attending concerts, they will also participate in specialised workshops and networking sessions designed to turn regional connections into global opportunities.

Veronika Černe @veronka_the_tonka (@radiostudent 89,3 MHz, SI)
Jan Robek @_bleargh_ (@kaparecords , @__kreh__ , SI)
Dona Ilijevska @ilijevskadona (@golaplaninakolektiv , @mrtov_konj , MK)
Luka Toshev @luka.toshev (Dina Jashari @dinqee , Studio Ilinden 3, MK)
Ana Konstantinović @ka_xoxo_ (@liveurope , RS)
Boško Strugar @boskostrugar (KST, RS)
David Mandić @david.mandicc (@radiotvornica , HR)
Matea Božić (yem., @yemhr HR)
Zhelyazko Ganchev @zhelyazkoganchev (Zvuk I Kartina / BubbleGum Records, Samodiva Society, BG)
Georgi Kazasov @gkazasov (Smiles Music @smilesmusicltd , Caravan Party, BG)

At its heart, New Faces is about the power of the network. By facilitating peer-to-peer exchange and providing direct access to major conference environments, the programme builds the long-term connections necessary for a sustainable career in music.

“The continued growth in applications confirms the relevance of New Faces and its role in supporting the next generation of industry leaders,” say the project partners.

MENT Ljubljana (SI)
Kontakt (RS) @kontakt_beograd
SHIP (HR) @ship.music.festival
PIN Music Conference (MK) @pinmusiconference
SoAlive Music Conference & Festival (BG) @soalivemusicconference

Learn more at ment.si 💫 link in bio

#newfaces #2026