HITStart d.o.o. is registered as a private for-profit company. At its core, however, it is much more than that – it’s the result of efforts to build a better, more sustainable, and more humane community.
Around 87% of HITStart’s workforce are people with disabilities, 80% of whom are women.
By signing the Charter on Business and Human Rights, as part of the project Improving Corporate Responsibility for Human Rights in BiH, funded by the European Union and implemented by the Institute for Youth Development KULT in partnership with the Trade and Services Workers’ Union and the Association “Give Us a Chance,” HITStart took another meaningful step toward fulfilling its mission and vision.
More than simply wanting to inspire others, HITStart aims to prove that it is possible to run a successful business while building something greater than profit. In their team, everyone has equal worth.
The company produces industrial cloths made from recycled clothing, creates unique handmade products like turbans, toiletry bags, and cushion covers, and sells high-quality second-hand clothing. All clothing goes through a thorough sorting, repurposing, and refining process, reducing waste and giving textiles a new life.
Asked why the company chose to sign the Charter, Selma Hadžić, director and co-owner of HITStart, explained: “HITStart was founded as a place where all human rights are respected, including the right to work, dignity, growth, and belonging. We’ve always believed that everyone deserves equal opportunities.
For HITStart, the Charter is a step closer to realizing their goals: “It holds us to a higher standard—to be better, to be more accountable. We hope it will increase the visibility of our work, connect us with others who share our values, and open the door to new collaborations. But most importantly, it brings us closer to our ultimate goal: establishing the first textile recycling center in Bosnia and Herzegovina staffed by people with disabilities. That’s our vision. It’s a long journey, but we’re committed to taking it one step at a time.”
The company has received valuable support from the Fund for Professional Rehabilitation and Employment of People with Disabilities, which allowed them to hire workers and purchase the necessary equipment.
“Without that support, HITStart wouldn’t be where it is today,” Selma emphasized.
Speaking about the values that guide their work, Selma noted: “People with disabilities and other marginalized groups often face closed doors when seeking employment. We want to change that reality. We don’t hire people with disabilities because we think they need help—we hire them because we know they bring knowledge, skills, and work ethic that strengthen our business. Our goal is not just to provide jobs, but to empower—to help our employees gain new skills, take pride in their work, and achieve financial independence.”
She stressed that everyone at HITStart works together, each according to their abilities, and with equal respect. The work provides both security and a sense of belonging.
“Seeing our employees grow and how proud they are of what they create is the greatest reward,” she said.
Reflecting on what drives their broader vision for employment and inclusion, Selma shared: “My mother, who is the executive director, has worked with people with disabilities since 2012. I joined her in 2016. We are women, mothers, and entrepreneurs—and we want to build a better future not only for our own children but for everyone who hasn’t had a fair chance. In the business world, people often forget that humanity and solidarity are the foundations of everything. We don’t just want to produce and sell—we want to leave a positive mark. We want to prove that business can be done differently—with purpose and with respect for every member of the team.”
For Selma, business is about far more than numbers. She says that HITStart prioritizes relationships. When people are treated right, success is inevitable.
Her final message is an invitation: “Come visit HITStart, get to know us, and support what we do. You’ll find high-quality products, but beyond that, you’ll find a community of people changing the world through their work. HITStart is our beginning, our vision, our story of unity and harmony. People should not be judged by their limitations, but by the potential within them. Companies shouldn’t choose employees based on prejudice, but on ability, and recognize that business isn’t just about profit. It’s about the opportunity to build a better society together.”
