A message from Vladimir Orlić in Australia: Montenegro is always in my heart, I have never forgotten who I am or where I come from

Although he moved to Australia at the age of five, Vladimir Orlić has never lost his connection with Montenegro. Born in Kotor and originally from Nikšić, he now lives in Melbourne, where he leads an initiative aimed at bringing together the Montenegrin diaspora and creating a lasting legacy through the establishment of the Montenegrin Ethnic Community and a future Montenegrin Cultural Centre.

In an interview with the ETV Portal, Orlić speaks about the reasons behind launching the new organization, life far from his homeland, his enduring ties to Montenegro, and his belief that the diaspora can play an important role in the country's development.

ETV Portal: You recently founded the Montenegrin Ethnic Community in Australia. What was the reason behind this initiative, and what motivated you?

Orlić: It all started with one simple idea - to bring our people together. For years, we watched the Montenegrin community in Australia stagnate. Instead of growth, unity, and meaningful projects, there were too many missed opportunities. Despite the good intentions of individuals who had previously been involved, we felt that a strong and active community had never truly been built - one that could unite all Montenegrins, preserve our identity, and work toward long-term goals.

We did not want to continue down the same path. We did not establish the Montenegrin Ethnic Community for positions, titles, or any personal gain. We founded it because we genuinely believe that Montenegrins in Australia deserve much more.

Our motivation was straightforward - to finally move from words to action. To build instead of making promises. To unite instead of divide. Our goal is to create the first genuine Montenegrin community and the first Montenegrin Cultural Centre in Australia, a place where our people can gather and where younger generations can learn about their heritage, culture, and history.

That is why we organize events such as the celebration of Montenegro's Statehood Day on July 13 and the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Vučji Do. These occasions allow us to come together, strengthen our bonds, and demonstrate that, although we live on the other side of the world, we have never forgotten where we come from.

We do not want people to remember us for what we said, but for what we leave behind. I believe time will clearly show the difference between those who spent years talking and those who chose to do something meaningful for their community.

ETV Portal: What is it like living so far from your homeland? What do you miss most about Montenegro?

Orlić: I came to Australia in 1997 when I was five years old, so I grew up here and built my life in this country. Australia has given me a great deal, and I am grateful for everything it has offered me. But Montenegro has always remained a part of who I am.

What I miss most are the people, our way of life, and that unique atmosphere that only Montenegro has. I miss family gatherings, our mountains, the sea, and our food. These are the things you carry with you wherever life takes you.

ETV Portal: How often do you visit Montenegro?

Orlić: I try to visit every year, and I often manage to come twice a year. Every visit is an opportunity to spend time with my family and friends and to travel throughout different parts of Montenegro. Each trip reminds me how deeply I love my country and how important it is for me to remain connected to it.

ETV Portal: From a distance, how do you view your homeland? What do you see as its greatest challenges, and what are your hopes for its future?

Orlić: Living abroad often makes you appreciate your homeland even more. Montenegro may be a small country, but it has a rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and people we can all be proud of.

Of course, the country faces challenges and there is always room for improvement, but I remain optimistic. I hope to see greater unity, fewer divisions, and more opportunities for young people to stay and build their futures in Montenegro.

I believe that those of us in the diaspora can also make a meaningful contribution and work together to help Montenegro move forward. No matter where we live, I think we all share the same wish - that our country continues to prosper, remains united, and preserves the qualities that have always made it unique.