Japec and Jernej Jakopin were brothers destined for respectable but conventional careers. Instead, they became two of Slovenia's most successful entrepreneurs.

Jernej Jakpon was a talented mathematician. His brother Japec also wanted to study mathematics, but was persuaded by his parents to opt for a more lucrative field – so he could take care of his family --, and enrolled in medical school instead. Even though he became a successful cardiologist, he realized that he lacked the drive to become the best doctor in his field. The sea, with all of its mysteries, held a stronger allure for him, and he was happiest when he could spend days diving in the Adriatic, and assembling small boats from kits.

In 1983, Japec Jakopin decided to give up his prestigious career and joined his brother Jernej to form the J&J Design Studio. At the time, Slovenia was still under Communist rule, but a slow process of liberalization was already underway, and small, privately owned companies with entrepreneurial ambitions were starting to appear. The Jakopin brothers came up with a modern design for a sailboat, and sold the plans to Elan, a state-owned sporting goods manufacturer. The sailboat was a success, and another models soon followed. Meanwhile, Japec Jakopin took a job at a French yacht manufacturer, where he learned about the marketing of maritime vessels.

By the end of the decade, the Jakopin brothers were designing boats for several companies and in 1989, they founded Seaway. After creating several prototypes, Seaway began with the serial production of boats.

Today, 48 boat manufacturers from around the world, including Seaway itself, produce yachts and sailboats designed by the Jakopin brothers. Over the years, more than 65,000 Jakopin-designed vessels have been built and have won a number of prestigious international awards; including dozens “Boat of the Year” titles and various design awards. The Jakopin brothers are also committed to environmental sustainability and were among the pioneers in the design of hybrid-powered vessels. Their Greenline series of hybrid yachts is intended primarily for the baby boomer generation. Its comfort and economy have helped the design to weather the current recession.

Having become the symbols of successful entrepreneurship, the Jakopin brothers are now urging the political establishment to make Slovenia more welcoming to foreign investors and friendlier to home-gown entrepreneurs. They argue only a more competitive business environment in Slovenia will enable companies like Seaway to thrive and export Slovenian know-how to customers around the world.