ŽIVOJIN SUVAJAC: RISING STAR OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

His passion for machines and curiosity for learning directed Živojin Suvajac to enroll at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in Belgrade, where he graduated with the highest honors, becoming one of the most distinguished students in the institution's history.

PHOTO: Glas Srpske

He completed his undergraduate studies in less than three years with an average grade of 9.31, followed by a two-year master’s degree in Production Engineering, which he finished just two months ago with a perfect score of 10. His academic achievements have opened doors to collaborations with leading researchers, engineers, and scientists in the field.

"I based my master’s thesis on research that I later presented at the 'International Scientific Conference MMA 2024 - Flexible Technologies,' held every three years in Novi Sad, as well as at the 'Jupiter' international conference at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in Belgrade, a leading forum for presenting new results in computer-integrated technologies, robotics, and more. There, I gathered valuable insights and exchanged knowledge with numerous experts," Suvajac stated.

His early interest in machines, devices, and cars motivated him to join the Formula Student team, “Drumska Strela,” with whom he helped design the first electric formula car in Serbia, which competed in Formula Student competitions in the Netherlands, Hungary, and Croatia.

"As a member of the 'Chassis and Suspension' sub-team in the 2023/24 season, I worked on designing and manufacturing a planetary gearbox, wheel assembly, and other parts for the team’s second electric car, which qualified for competitions in Austria, the Czech Republic, and Croatia. This hands-on experience greatly enhanced my skills and knowledge, which will benefit me in my future career," emphasized Suvajac.

His versatility and ambition were evident even in primary and secondary school, where he earned the prestigious Vuk's Diploma and placed first in regional competitions in democracy and human rights, as well as in local math and physics competitions.

Živojin also attended the "Branko Smiljanić" Elementary Music School in Gradiška, specializing in accordion, and won first place at the “Amadeus” music and dance festival in Serbia.

In addition, he had a remarkably successful dance career, earning 12 national titles, 36 gold, 15 silver, and 15 bronze medals at various national, state, and international tournaments, and was a longtime member of the "Ritam" Dance Club in Srbac.

"From the age of six, I danced in both Latin American and standard styles, competing across Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Italy, Estonia, and Slovakia. Although I stopped competing four years ago due to academic obligations, this period will always remain a cherished memory," Suvajac reflected.

Looking ahead, he plans to pursue doctoral studies at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in Belgrade, continuing his academic and professional advancement.

"I have received an offer to work as a teaching assistant at the faculty upon enrolling in my doctoral studies. This is a great honor, and I have decided to accept the offer. The faculty is home to numerous experts in different fields of mechanical engineering whom I deeply respect, and I look forward to our future collaboration," said Suvajac.

SPORTS

In his spare time, Živojin enjoys playing basketball recreationally and previously spent seven years playing soccer. As a dancer, he won second place twice in the competition for Best Athlete of Srbac in 2017 and 2018.

Six years ago, he was awarded the Youth Award from the Municipality of Srbac at the ceremony celebrating the Municipality Day and its patron saint’s day.