By Zak Vracevic, Director at CEDIA Member company, M.E.G.A. AV INSTALLATIONS - Tue, Apr 22, 2025 - Blog
My journey into AV integration is a story of passion evolving into purpose. In 1981, I began experimenting with synthesisers and delving into music production, which led to recording in studios across Belgrade, former Yugoslavia. Moving to the UK in 1986, I embraced a career remixing tracks for legendary artists such as Bob Marley, Donna Summer, Gloria Estefan, and M People. By the mid-2000s, my focus shifted toward AV systems, drawn by the challenge of merging technology with design. It was during this transition that I discovered CEDIA, whose commitment to professionalism and innovation mirrored my own aspirations. Becoming a member was the next logical step to deepen my knowledge and connections in the smart home industry.
Today, as Owner and Director of M.E.G.A. AV INSTALLATIONS, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact of being a CEDIA member. The organisation provides a vital framework for excellence and drives the standards within our industry. Its resources, networking opportunities, and professional development tools have been invaluable to our growth. But perhaps the most significant way CEDIA supports our work is through its CEDIA Smart Home Awards. We have now won a total of seven awards, representing our dedication to pushing boundaries and delivering remarkable results.
We are immensely proud to have taken home three awards for our Joy Division Room at the 2024 CEDIA Smart Home Awards. The project is a multi-functional media room with challenging dimensions, extensive glass features, and complex integration requirements. The room earned us the titles of ‘Technology Meets Design,’ ‘Best Media Room Level II,’ and the coveted ‘Global Media Room’ award. The global win, in particular, is a monumental accolade. It is incredibly honouring, and it can only help in the future - I have noticed that potential clients pay more attention now to what we say and suggest.
These awards are vital for our industry and drive innovation, inspiring integrators to explore new possibilities and elevate their craft. Each year, the competition sets a higher standard, showcasing what is possible when technology and creativity come together. For us, earning these awards has highlighted our growth and solidified our position in the field. As well as the recognition from the industry, it’s also given us the ability to show clients and architects that attention to detail, and time spent on it, pays off. It shows that the whole, sometimes lengthy, process of working through every detail makes sense at the end when everything just comes together.
For those considering entering the CEDIA Smart Home Awards, my advice would be to approach the process with care and creativity. Take the time to prepare thorough documentation and present your work in a way that highlights its unique qualities. The effort is worthwhile, as it not only showcases your achievements but also reinforces your commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for your clients.
Being a CEDIA member and celebrating its awards programme achieves a sense of community that values innovation and quality in the field. These awards honour the best in our industry, providing a platform to learn from each other and explore what’s possible.
For more information on the CEDIA Smart Home Awards, head to www.cedia.org/awards.