“ABC Toronto gave me the structure to build ideas, and ABC Silicon Valley gave me the mindset to think bigger and make them real.”
Can you introduce yourself? Tell us your name, where you’re from, and a bit about your background.
My name is Nikola, I’m from Croatia, and I’m currently finishing my Master’s degree in Design and Communication Management at Algebra University.
I’ve always had a passion for solving problems and making new things possible, but I wasn’t always sure how to structure my ideas properly. That’s what first drew me to ABC BootCamps.
You attended both ABC Toronto and ABC Silicon Valley. What motivated you to join, and how did the two experiences differ?
When I first saw the ABC Toronto program, I was immediately interested in the professors, the structure, and the practical approach to building business ideas. I wanted to understand how to turn ideas into something real.
In Toronto, we started from the basics: how to prepare a business pitch, how to create a business plan, and how to structure an idea step by step. One of the most valuable tools was the Flourishing Business Canvas. It helped me break ideas into smaller parts, define customer segments, and evaluate the economic, social, and environmental aspects of a business. It really cleared my mind and gave me perspective.
Silicon Valley was different. It built on that foundation but focused more on mindset and innovation. We worked on customer discovery, validation frameworks, and methods for presenting ideas clearly to investors. The biggest takeaway was learning how to take an idea out of your head, put it on paper, talk about it openly, validate it, and eventually make it real.
Toronto helped me structure ideas. Silicon Valley helped me think bigger and validate them properly.
What did you gain from these experiences?
Beyond business planning skills and innovation frameworks, the people were the most valuable part of both programs. In Toronto, I built strong networks and met inspiring professors and guest speakers.
In Silicon Valley, I experienced a completely different mindset. Being in the center of the technological world changes how you see opportunities. It gives you a clearer understanding of what’s possible and how innovation actually happens.
Both programs inspired me to aim higher and take action when I returned home.
Would you recommend ABC?
If you’re someone who wants to build something of your own, start a business, or simply understand how innovation really works, this is a great place to start. It gives you structure, mindset, and confidence to move forward.
