Rules, procedures, and programs are changing faster than ever, which means organizations and communities must constantly learn and adapt to challenging shifts in what’s expected of them. That’s why the Job Shadowing program of the Institute for Youth Development KULT is such a powerful tool for professional and organizational growth, which strengthens NGOs and their teams through hands-on experience.
Today we had the pleasure of hosting representatives of the Association for Assistance to Persons with Autism ‘Djeca svjetlosti’ from Banja Luka at the Institute. Their positive energy, questions, answers, and eagerness to learn something new drew in colleagues from across the Institute. This team is motivated, and eager to provide better services to its beneficiaries.
“We really enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere and ease of communication, which gave us the sense that employees here truly enjoy their work. What stood out most was the open sharing of information, which gave us a clear sense of direction for our future work and helped us see where we can improve further. Thank you for this opportunity. We expected it would be pleasant, but it turned out to be even better. We want to emphasize that we felt how much you all care about us and our development, and it gives us confidence to know we can reach out even after the project and Job Shadowing project program are over,” said Olivera Davidović Knežić, professional associate at the Association.
Collaborating and sharing experiences in this way shows just how important it is for organizations to exchange knowledge and learn from one another. These kinds of encounters help strengthen bonds between organizations and directly support the broader mission of empowering the civil sector. Today, the open doors of one organization meant an extended hand of partnership and a connection that truly matters.
“Today we had the chance to learn so many useful things. The staff were very kind and did everything they could to share their knowledge and experience, and to explain how the entire organization functions. I hope we’ll manage to apply at least part of this in our own work. Like Olivera, I’m grateful for the opportunity we had to take part in Job Shadowing,” said Branka Regodić, financial officer at the Association.
The job shadowing program is intended for staff and key team members from civil society organizations that have an approved capacity-building plan or strategy. Its goal is to help participants develop new skills and knowledge through hands-on learning by observing the work of other organizations. The program offers a unique chance to learn directly within a real work environment, helping participants better understand the challenges and processes of other organizations. This, in turn, strengthens their professional growth and boosts the capacities of their own organizations.
Job shadowing is more than a visit, a meeting, or a networking session. It’s a process that brings together people, ideas, and experience.
The Association for Assistance to Persons with Autism ‘Djeca svjetlosti’ is a partner organization actively involved in the capacity-building program through the PRAGG project, funded by the Government of Switzerland and implemented in Bosnia and Herzegovina by a consortium of HELVETAS and NIRAS, in partnership with local partners the Centers for Civic Initiatives (CCI) and the Institute for Youth Development KULT.
You can learn more about the job shadowing concept [HERE], or get in touch by emailing selma.sljivo@mladi.org.
