As part of WDD 2025, IDF Europe proudly announced the recipients of this year’s Advocate Awards. Supported by Lilly, the award recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to improving the lives, rights and care of PwD across Europe. Below, we highlight the inspiring work of our two 2025 awardees: Davor Skeledžija and Marcello Grussu.
Davor Skeledžija – driving structural change in diabetes care
Diagnosed with T1D at age 13, Davor has been working with local and national diabetes associations to expand the reimbursement of diabetes medicines and continuous glucose monitors for people living with T1D and type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Croatia, improving equity and affordability of care.
He also played a key role in campaigns to remove discriminatory regulations that prevented people on insulin therapy from obtaining professional driving licenses, advancing equal employment opportunities.
Marcello Grussu – advancing PwD rights through sport
Diagnosed with T1D in 1986, Marcello Grussu has spent decades proving that diabetes is not a barrier to achievement. As President of ANIAD (Italian National Association of Athletes with Diabetes), he has championed the transformative role of sport in diabetes management, prevention and social inclusion.
Marcello is also a committed advocate for the rights of PwD in Italy, fostering collaboration between institutions, scientific societies and diabetes associations to strengthen care and awareness.
