Written by: Penelope Wildwood

Robert Herjavec: The Croatian-Canadian Business Magnate

Robert Herjavec, a Croatian-born Canadian businessman, investor, and television personality, is best known for his appearances on several versions of the business reality series Dragons' Den, including the Canadian CBC series, the American ABC's version Shark Tank, and the Australian Network 10 version. As the founder of The Herjavec Group, one of the largest information technology and computer security companies in Canada, he has built a reputation as a shrewd investor and entrepreneur.

Early Life and Career

Born on September 14, 1962, in Varadin, SFR Yugoslavia (present-day Croatia), Herjavec's early life was marked by turmoil. His family fled the country in 1970, following his father's repeated imprisonments for speaking out against the communist regime. The family arrived in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with a single suitcase and only $20, eventually settling in Toronto.

Herjavec's determination and resilience in the face of adversity paved the way for his future success. Despite the language barrier and cultural differences, he worked hard to adapt to his new surroundings. After completing his education, he landed a job at Logiquest, a Canadian computer company, where he quickly rose through the ranks.

Rise to Prominence

In 1990, Herjavec founded BRAK Systems, a Canadian integrator of Internet security software. His vision and leadership propelled the company to incredible growth, culminating in its sale to AT&T Canada (now Allstream Inc.) in 2000 for a staggering $30.2 million.

In 2003, Herjavec founded The Herjavec Group, which has since become one of the largest information technology and computer security companies in Canada, with over $200 million in annual revenue.

Television Personality and Author

Herjavec's charismatic personality and business acumen have made him a sought-after television personality. He has appeared on several versions of Dragons' Den, providing valuable insights and investment opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs.

In addition to his television appearances, Herjavec has authored several books on advancing in business, sharing his expertise and experiences with a wider audience.

Awards and Honors

Herjavec's contributions to entrepreneurship and business have been recognized with several awards and honors, including the 2012 Ernst & Young Ontario Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Technology and the 2012 Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for Outstanding Service to Canada.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Through his writings and public appearances, Herjavec has emphasized the importance of perseverance, hard work, and adaptability in achieving success. He believes that entrepreneurs should be willing to take calculated risks and continuously learn from their experiences.

Herjavec's rags-to-riches story serves as a powerful inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and individuals from diverse backgrounds, demonstrating that with determination and resilience, anyone can achieve their goals.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• 1962: Born in Varadin, SFR Yugoslavia (present-day Croatia)
• 1970: Family fled to Canada with a single suitcase and only $20
• 1990: Founded BRAK Systems
• 2000: Sold BRAK Systems to AT&T Canada for $30.2 million
• 2003: Founded The Herjavec Group
• 2012: Received Ernst & Young Ontario Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Technology and Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for Outstanding Service to Canada

Robert Herjavec's remarkable journey, from his humble beginnings to his current status as a respected business magnate, serves as a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and innovation.