The SEMPL conference, the leading platform for media and communication trends in the Adriatic region, hosted over 800 experts from the media and marketing industries in Portorož
The SEMPL Conference programme was packed with star speakers from across Europe who impressed attendees with insights into the latest trends shaping the future of media, advertising, and communications.
Outstanding Names on the SEMPL Stage
This year’s conference featured numerous notable performances:
Sasha Savić, a renowned director and consultant in the advertising industry with three decades of experience in the US and leadership of the media agency MediaCom, spoke about the impact of artificial intelligence on transforming agency models and media campaign planning. He offered participants several practical tips for achieving success:
“You must surround yourself with the right people. Find talented individuals with a broad range of skills and abilities. The right people create innovative and transformative ideas that make clients want to work with your agency. When you have such transformative ideas, it’s also the best way to achieve transformative results. So, don’t wait too long and ensure the best people around you can deliver great, surprising, and transformative ideas leading to transformative results.”
Richard Colwell, CEO of the Irish research company RED C Research, presented groundbreaking research proving that television remains the most powerful medium for capturing and retaining people’s attention.
Also on stage were Robert Čoban, co-founder and president of Color Press Group, and Branimir Brkljač, a Slovenian expert in direct marketing. They discussed transformations in communication over the past four decades, the impact of artificial intelligence, and how traditional media and marketing models can survive in a “brave new world.”
Gizem Ozturk, Global Director at TBWA\Worldwide, shared innovative methods for strengthening global agency connectivity within the network through tailored training programmes.
SEMPL once again confirmed its reputation as the central event in the region for media and marketing
“When designing our programmes in different cities or countries, we ensure that the unique elements of each culture are integrated into the learning process. I believe in creating programmes that offer unique, comprehensive experiences, allowing participants to fully engage with the learning content and the culture around them,” she emphasised.
Nebojša Mandrapa, a personal branding expert, presented strategies for developing Novak Djokovic’s personal brand, including crisis management and charitable initiatives.
“A successful brand is always evolving; it’s not something set in stone, so it’s no surprise if it changes its roles in the community,” he summarised.
Among the more intriguing guests was Angelina Komarova, producer of seasons 3 and 4 of Netflix’s Emily in Paris. In conversation with actor Domen Valič, she revealed behind-the-scenes insights into the making of this global phenomenon and the collaboration with various brands.
Maja Kremić, Director of the Novak Djokovic Foundation, spoke on a panel moderated by Ana Radišić. She highlighted the foundation’s belief that every child deserves a happy and enriching childhood, as early experiences shape them into responsible and empowered adults.
Melissa Duhalde, a French beauty marketing expert, concluded SEMPL with a talk on the importance of diversity and inclusion in modern advertising campaigns. Drawing on her experience with companies like L’Oréal and Shiseido, she stressed the necessity of embracing these values in today’s marketing strategies.
Interactive Workshops and Networking
In addition to inspiring lectures, SEMPL offered a range of practical workshops in which participants explored new approaches to campaign planning and strategies and the impact of information overload on society and cognitive processes.
Social Highlights and the Sempler Awards
Unforgettable gatherings and parties created the perfect atmosphere for networking and exchanging ideas. The event’s highlight was the Sempler Awards ceremony, celebrating the best media strategies in the region. The grand prize was awarded to the project “Poli 50 – I Was There,” created by the Futura DDB agency for Perutnina Ptuj, marking the 50th anniversary of the Poli brand.
SEMPL once again confirmed its reputation as the central event in the region for media and marketing. Organisers are already anticipating even more top-tier content next year. The dates for the next SEMPL are already set: 27th and 28th November 2025.