Today, the Institute for Youth Development KULT, in collaboration with the Faculty of Economics of the University of Sarajevo, hosted a panel titled “We’re Not Packing Our Bags, We’re Packing Ideas: Education and Business for the Future We Choose,” as part of the #JOSUVIJEKSAMTU campaign.
The panel was a valuable opportunity for students and young people from different backgrounds to come together and engage in an open dialogue about both the challenges and opportunities for youth in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“Formal and non-formal education have the power to shape self-aware, responsible, and empowered individuals. The Institute’s #JOSUVIJEKSAMTU campaign is a call for young people to stay and build, change, and create opportunities here, at home,” said Ajka Rovčanin, Executive Director of the Institute for Youth Development KULT.
“It is our mission, as academic staff, to share knowledge. And the knowledge you acquire, the ideas you develop, the energy you bring – these are the strongest foundations for the future. Don’t wait for opportunities and jobs to come to you – create them yourselves!” said Amila Pilav Velić, Vice Dean for Research and Projects at the Faculty of Economics, University of Sarajevo.
Beyond discussion, the panel served as a platform for sharing ideas, inspiration, and practical examples of how young people can be empowered to actively shape their future in their own country.
Through honest, experience-driven stories shared by panelists: Dr. Anes Hrnjić from the Faculty of Economics, Amila Nuhić, owner of the veterinary pharmacy Linea Alba, Adna Salman-Perva, owner of the bridal salon Tiara, and participant in the #JOSUVIJEKSAMTU campaign, and Isidora Mandić, a student and activist, young participants had the chance to hear just how important education is for building a career and future, what it takes to launch your own business, and what it looks like to fight for your place and success in BiH.
The interactive discussion gave students space to share their doubts, ideas, and visions for the future. The panel sent an encouraging message: change starts with the individual, dreams know no limits, and BiH can be a place where success is possible if young people choose to make it happen.
“I’m really glad I came today, especially after such an inspiring panel. I’m a law student, and justice is very important to me. People often say there’s no justice in BiH, but rarely ask why that is or who’s responsible. I believe we’re all responsible. We have to start with ourselves. That’s the only way we can impact our whole community and be part of real change,” said Ahmed Hodžić, one of the participants.
“It was fascinating to hear the panelists’ stories, not just about their careers, but also their personal journeys, both here and abroad. I’m leaving the panel thinking about my own future and the many opportunities that exist in different places. I especially enjoyed the student discussion and listening to all the different perspectives on how to succeed, adapt, and thrive, whether we choose to build our careers abroad or right here in our own job market,” said Armina Bukalo, a student at the Faculty of Economics.
Young people are not just the future; they are the present too. With their energy, ideas, and courage, they are already reshaping communities and changing the way society looks and feels.
This panel once again highlighted the importance of listening to young people and supporting them in creating and believing in themselves.
The Institute for Youth Development KULT thanks the Faculty of Economics at the University of Sarajevo for their collaboration, and all participants for contributing to today’s inspiring atmosphere.
You can watch the video series from the #JOSUVIJEKSAMTU campaign HERE, and view the photo gallery HERE.
