Zhiva, a young artist from the region, has been awarded the prestigious Milan Mladenović Award 2026 for her song “Atom.” The award ceremony took place on September 21, 2026, at BitefArtCafe in Belgrade. This accolade, granted by the Milan Mladenović Foundation, is given annually to recognize the best song in the region and aims to promote young creators and highlight regional talent.
Zhiva, whose real name is Iva Pažin, expressed her surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award, stating, “This is a huge honor – to be part of a regional scene that is so valuable and wonderful. Thank you to the Milan Mladenović Foundation for supporting us through this award.” She is the eighth recipient of this award, which includes a cash prize of 3,000 euros, a statuette, and opportunities to perform at several festivals, including the Arsenal Fest in Kragujevac, the Ship showcase festival in Šibenik, and the “Modro i zeleno” festival. Additionally, she will have a direct entry into the Musicology Showcase by Lenovo.
The decision to honor Zhiva was made by a regional jury comprising Pavica Čabrijan from Croatia, Nemanja Đorđević from Serbia, Lada Furlan Zaborac from Croatia, Jovan Matić from Serbia, and Ana Radonjić, also known as Zoe Kida, from Serbia. The award is traditionally presented on September 21, Milan Mladenović’s birthday, and has been a significant event in the region for its role in fostering artistic expression and creativity among young musicians.
In addition to Zhiva’s recognition, other awards were presented during the ceremony. The award for the most inspiring vocal, in collaboration with the Balkanrock portal, also went to Zhiva. Meanwhile, Stefan Savić, known as Bezz, received the award for best lyrics for his song “Jaz(z),” along with a framed manuscript of Milan Mladenović’s song “Krug” and a voucher from Bulevar Books, a Novi Sad bookstore, valued at 200 euros. The award for the most innovative drummer was given to Milan Jejina, known as The Yeqy, for his duet with PetromZ on the song “Bukvarom po glavi,” presented by Ivan Fece Firči, a former drummer of Ekatarina Velika and a current board member of the Milan Mladenović Foundation.
The Milan Mladenović Award ceremony concluded with a performance by Elena Vasova, the previous year’s laureate. The award not only celebrates musical talent but also embodies the spirit of Milan Mladenović, continuing his legacy by supporting new generations of creators across the former Yugoslav territories. This year’s ceremony marked a return to Belgrade, although the spirit of the award was also celebrated in Makarska, Milan Mladenović’s summer home and his mother’s birthplace, through the “Modro i zeleno” festival.
The Milan Mladenović Award is a testament to the enduring influence of Milan Mladenović, a prominent figure in the music scene, and his commitment to artistic freedom and expression. By recognizing and supporting emerging artists like Zhiva, the award plays a crucial role in nurturing the vibrant and diverse musical landscape of the region.
