We are pleased to welcome Pedro Rivero, an internationally recognized Spanish filmmaker, screenwriter, and storyteller, to our campus, marking a meaningful moment for our academic and creative community. Known for his uncompromising approach to storytelling, Pedro Rivero’s work challenges conventional narratives and invites audiences to confront complex questions about human nature, society, power, and morality. By hosting a creator whose films move beyond comfort and into deeper psychological and social territories, we continue to affirm our commitment to critical thinking, artistic courage, and meaningful cultural dialogue within International Balkan University.

Throughout his career, Pedro Rivero has built a body of work that resonates globally, spanning both live-action and animation and earning recognition at prestigious international film festivals. From socially charged cinematic works such as The Platform (El Hoyo) and its sequel, to Rich Flu, and from pioneering animated projects like La Crisis Carnívora to the award-winning Birdboy and the feature film Psiconautas: The Forgotten Children, his films stand as powerful examples of how visual storytelling can address trauma, loss, survival, and collective responsibility. His creative voice also extends into comics, further demonstrating a multidisciplinary practice that enriches contemporary storytelling and provides invaluable inspiration for students and emerging artists.

We are especially proud to host this encounter alongside our esteemed colleagues from the field, including our dear professor from the Animation and Video Production program, Goce Gospodinovski, and one of the most renowned Macedonian animators, Krste Gospodinovski. Their presence reinforces the strong connection between education, professional practice, and cultural exchange that defines our university. Through events like this, we continue to strengthen our mission to offer a high-quality, internationally oriented education that connects students with influential voices in the creative industries and prepares them to engage thoughtfully and boldly with the world ahead.