Learn, Think, and Act! training course gives young people the opportunity to learn through ten units/modules and encourages them to think about themselves, their peers, the community and civil activism. To ensure that the knowledge gained during the training is put into action, UMiD students are given the chance to apply their skills practically and work on improving the situation for young people in their local communities. Through their local citizens’ initiatives (LCIs), youth leaders drive meaningful change in their communities and address the needs and issues young people face, with the Institute providing both advisory and financial support throughout the implementation process.
Merima Osmanović, one of our amazing UMiD participants, successfully implemented her civil initiative, “Discover the colors of activism,” focusing on reconciliation and peacebuilding. She is a representative of the “Trik” Kalesija Youth Association and a creative and hardworking young activist. Merima’s local civil initiative was completed with the painting of a mural on a building in the center of Kalesija, with the help of volunteers from the Trik association. The activity attracted a lot of attention from passers-by, who photographed the mural, liked the idea, and wanted to hear more. With the help of volunteers, Merima gave a colorful gift to her city and motivated her peers to make small, positive changes for themselves and those around them. Her fellow citizens’ interest in the activity confirmed to Merima that she was doing something good and should continue with her efforts.
Merima was very proud of her work and the work of her peers: “This activity went great. As the coordinator of this initiative and this activity, I have to share my deep gratitude to the volunteers who participated in drawing the mural. The mural sends a message of peace and I am especially happy that this activity attracted a lot of attention from citizens and that people walking by took photos of the mural and were delighted by it.”
Where did this idea come from?
This mural tells a story crafted by enthusiastic, creative young people who recognize and seize opportunities for themselves and their community.
Merima’s previous activity was an educational workshop with war veterans. That workshop encouraged participants to think critically and included personal stories of three war veterans from the HVO, RS Army, and RBiH Army. Following this, the project announced an artistic and literary competition called “Building Peace,” allowing young people to share their vision of peace through stories or drawings.
However, the activities did not end there. The project also invited the citizens of Kalesija to participate in the street action called “Peace is for Me” on International Day of Peace, September 21, by writing messages of peace on pieces of paper. All these activities led to the idea of painting a mural on the building that symbolizes world peace.
Volunteer Belma Čanić confirmed that the participants thoroughly enjoyed the activity: “It was a pleasure to participate in drawing the mural that made Kalesija more beautiful. It is an unforgettable experience that I will remember for a long time because of the good company and positive energy.”
One of the volunteers, Haris Đedović, said he hopes this vibrant mural in the center of Kalesija will inspire young people to engage more in activism and be creative in all aspects of life.
The Institute for Youth Development KULT is always proud of young people who want to contribute to society. We wish Merima the best in her future activism do not doubt that her dedication and creativity will lead her to success.
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