Two of Macedonia’s most influential young entrepreneurs, Nikola Iliev (Nickarth / Rialians On Earth) and Monika Ilieva, co-founders of the globally recognized music label Cafe De Anatolia, proudly represented their country at the prestigious Forbes Under 30 Summit in Columbus, Ohio, USA.
The dynamic sibling duo, both members of the Forbes Business Council, joined an elite gathering of next-generation innovators, artists, and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of global business and culture. Their participation placed Macedonia on the international map of creativity and innovation, underscoring the transformative power of music and entrepreneurship.
At the event, Nikola and Monika engaged in high-level discussions and networking sessions with influential global figures such as Alex Warren, Lili Reinhart (Riverdale), Olympic champion Suni Lee, tech visionary Lucy Guo, and creators Jake Shane and Josh Richards. The summit celebrated collaboration, innovation, and leadership — values that resonate deeply with the philosophy of Cafe De Anatolia.
“Music, culture, and education are bridges that connect people beyond all borders,” shared Nikola and Monika, highlighting their mission to use art as a universal language that unites communities worldwide.
As the creative minds behind Cafe De Anatolia, Nikola and Monika have built far more than a record label — they have cultivated a global cultural brand. Their vision blends organic house music with authentic ethnic influences, resulting in a distinctive sound that has captivated millions across the globe.
Under their leadership, Cafe De Anatolia has evolved into one of Europe’s most respected music enterprises. In 2024, the brand achieved a landmark success by signing a strategic publishing agreement with Sony Music Publishing, making it the first European brand of its kind to do so — a historic milestone for the Macedonian and European music industries.
Founded in 2017 by Zoran Iliev (Billy Esteban) and his children Nikola and Monika, the company’s roots date back to 2009, when the idea of merging culture, music, and entrepreneurship first began. Since then, Nikola and Monika have carried the vision forward, transforming Cafe De Anatolia into a global symbol of innovation, authenticity, and artistic excellence.
The Forbes Under 30 Summit, curated by Randall Lane and the Forbes editorial team, brought together future leaders from around the world to share insights and drive meaningful collaboration. For Nikola and Monika, participating in this global platform was both an honor and an affirmation of their continued mission — to inspire through music, culture, and creativity.
Conclusion:
Through their participation at the Forbes Under 30 Summit, Nickarth and Monika Ilieva showcased not only the global success of Cafe De Anatolia, but also the spirit of Macedonian innovation and artistry. Their journey from local beginnings to international recognition stands as a testament to what vision, passion, and authenticity can achieve on the world stage.