Vedran Drakulic, Order of Australia Medal recipient becomes advisor to foundation

Vedran Drakulic OAM, the first Bosnian & Herzegovinian to receive the Order of Australia Medal and the CEO of Gandel Philanthropy has officially become the advisor to the BH Futures Foundation. Vedran became familiar with the foundation’s work in 2018 and was the keynote speaker at the foundation’s annual networking & fundraiser event, where he was really impressed with the early success of our organisation. Vedran was honored to accept the advisory role to the BH Futures Foundation. He will meet with representatives of the board on a regular basis to provide senior leadership and strategic advisory as the foundation expands its activities and influence globally.

“Education is the key to future success of every person, and in this case probably the country as a whole. I congratulate you on everything that you are doing for the young people of Bosnia & Herzegovina. It is very admirable and demonstrates that the core values of society are thriving among our diaspora as well as youth in the homeland. I look forward to advising you so that your amazing work can reach new heights and that you help even more young people achieve their dreams.”, says Vedran.

Vedran Drakulic OAM - Advisor to BH Futures Foundation.jpg

About Vedran Drakulic

Vedran was born in Sarajevo and arrived in Australia in 1995 under the Australian Government’s refugee resettlement humanitarian program.  He brings with him significant experience in the humanitarian sector through his work for Australian Red Cross, International Red Cross and Oxfam, especially in marketing, fundraising and communications. These roles gave him a strong and deep understanding of the refugee and migrant settlement sectors and the issues related to CALD communities. He has had extensive experience in the not-for-profit sector and has dedicated his career to helping vulnerable people around the world.


Vedran is currently the Chief Executive Officer for Gandel Philanthropy, one of the largest family foundations in Australia, and he is an Australia Day Ambassador. He is also a President of the International Social Service Australia and a Member of the Committee of Management of the Hobson’s Bay Community Fund. In 2017 Vedran received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community through a range of charitable organisations, becoming the first Bosnian & Herzegovinian to receive this prestigious recognition.

You can read more about Vedran by going to the links below:

Eddie Custovic