Jelena Tondini is Program Coordinator at the Croatian Cultural Centre Rijeka and the founder and manager of Porto Etno, an acclaimed international festival of world music and gastronomy. With a master’s degree in cultural studies and advanced training in audience development, community engagement, and cultural production, Jelena has shaped Porto Etno since 2017, transforming it from a traditional folklore event into a vibrant, multicultural celebration renowned for its innovative programming and artistic collaborations.
Beyond her festival leadership, Jelena is an inventive music producer known for blending traditional ethno sounds with contemporary disco. Her latest project, Tondini plays Mostar Sevdah Reunion, is recognised as the first-ever disco sevdah project, pushing the boundaries of Balkan music and dance culture.
