Thousands of young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina are transforming their communities every day, despite the challenges they face. They don’t wait for change – they create it. They fight for equality, protect the environment, use art to spark dialogue, launch campaigns, and drive digital revolutions.
The Youth Activism Award celebrates their courage, persistence, and vision. At a ceremony attended by young activists, youth leaders, and those working with and for young people, the Institute for Youth Development KULT proudly marked International Youth Day by honoring the most inspiring activists in BiH.
Awards were presented to young people who prove time and again that youth are a force for change. Across five categories, the Institute recognized young people who push boundaries through their work and initiatives, whether they are fighting for human rights, environmental justice, a more inclusive society, freedom of expression, or digital transformations that serve the community. Organizations that involve and support young people also had the opportunity to be considered for awards.
Ajka Rovčanin, Executive Director of the Institute for Youth Development KULT, talked about the support the Institute provides to young people so they can continue to create change in BiH. She noted the importance of this award as a valuable recognition and additional motivation for young people.
All finalists agreed that receiving this award was very motivating because it showed them that someone truly sees and recognizes their activism, their daily work, ideas, efforts, and desire to be the ones driving change.
Following presentations to an expert jury and other participants, five young people and one organization were recognized with awards across the five categories defined in the public call.
The awards went to Nudžejma Karajić from Velika Kladuša in the “Changemaker” (social activism) category, Layla Jusko from Sarajevo in the “Eco Warrior” (environmental activism) category, Amina Imamović from Sarajevo in the “Beacon of Justice” (human rights activities) category, Tesnim Karišik Spahić from Sarajevo in the “Creative Catalyst” (artistic activism) category, and Jelena Savić from Gradiška in the “Cyber Advocate” (digital activism) category.
The award recipient in the organization category was the Association for Child Care and Children’s Rights “Our Children” Zenica.
The Youth Activism Award is not just recognition, but a symbol of gratitude and support for young people who act daily, change their communities, and create better opportunities for all of us. Through this award, the Institute acknowledges their achievements while sending the message that young people deserve to be seen, heard, and supported.
As an organization with over 20 years of experience working with young people, the Institute has focused through this initiative on creating space where young people can grow, develop, and take action.
With this year’s award ceremony concluded, the story of activism continues. Each award recipient becomes an inspiration to others, proof that change is possible, and an invitation for everyone to join in creating a better society.
In the coming period, the Institute will continue to recognize and support young activists.
Browse the event photo gallery HERE.
