DEFYING ODDS FROM KORDUN TO THE AMERICAN DREAM

From being teased in third grade for not speaking English to becoming a successful real estate broker and entrepreneur in the United States, Suzana Tesla’s life story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith in education and hard work.

PHOTO: Facebook / Suzana Tesla

“I was teased when I came to America because I didn’t speak English, but that only pushed me to learn faster and do better in school,” Suzana recalled. “That desire to improve myself laid the foundation for everything that followed.”

Born in Vojnić, in the Kordun region, Suzana was forced to leave her homeland during Operation Storm, along with her parents and around 250,000 other Serbs. Today, she lives in Chicago, where she has built an impressive academic and professional career, earning four master’s degrees and founding her own real estate company, Tesla Group Real Estate.

Although she remembers little from the war itself, the sounds of bombing and the fear of displacement remain vivid memories. “Even though I was a child and didn’t fully understand what was happening, the stories my parents later shared made a deep impact on me. They gave me strength and motivation to work harder and prove that all that suffering was not in vain,” she said.

Adjusting to life in the United States was not easy. Language barriers and cultural differences made fitting in difficult, even within her own community. However, her parents’ sacrifice and belief in education became her driving force. “Education is something no one can ever take away from you. After losing so much, we learned to value knowledge because it stays with you wherever you go,” Suzana explained.

Although educated in multiple fields, she ultimately chose a career in real estate, combining her background in marketing, business, and finance. “Starting my own company was challenging, especially gaining clients’ trust and navigating legal processes. But integrity and honesty were always my priorities,” she said, adding that she hopes to one day expand her business to Serbia and strengthen ties with the diaspora.

Beyond her professional success, Suzana is deeply involved in preserving cultural heritage.

She is an active member of the folklore ensemble “Oko sokolovo” and the association of Krajina Serbs “Prelo” in Chicago. What once felt like an obligation in childhood has become a meaningful connection to her roots.

“Folklore today represents identity, belonging, and balance in a fast-paced world. It preserves language, tradition, and a sense of community, especially for young people growing up far from their homeland,” she emphasized.

She is also dedicated to preserving the memory of the suffering endured during Operation Storm. “We must remember and talk about our history. It shapes who we are, and forgetting it would mean losing a part of ourselves,” she said.

When asked about her famous surname and potential connection to Nikola Tesla, Suzana responded with humility. “It’s an honor to share the same surname. Whether or not we are related, he represents knowledge, curiosity, and dedication—values that inspire me every day.”

Proud of her Balkan roots, Suzana believes identity is best expressed through actions. “You should never forget where you come from. Our heritage shapes us, but our values and actions define us.”

She also sent a message to young people from the Balkans living abroad: “Never forget your roots, but don’t be afraid to build your future where you are. Your strength lies in belonging to two cultures. Use that to build bridges, help others, and give back to the communities you come from.”

Suzana also highlighted the vibrant life of the Serbian community in Chicago, noting that churches, cultural organizations, and various events help preserve language, tradition, and a strong sense of belonging—creating a bridge between the past and life in a new homeland.