Last weekend, the first of a series of gatherings for the ‘Learn, Think and Act!’ UMiD Alumni Community was held in Sarajevo. The gloomy weekend in Sarajevo was brightened by cherished memories of the one-year UMiD experience. Participants from earlier generations often describe it as a year filled with fun, positive stories, a great atmosphere, wonderful young people, and a wealth of new knowledge. Young people who undergo this training often say that participating in UMiD has changed their lives in many ways.
Given that our UMiD alumni have been calling for a formal Alumni community for a long time, this first gathering was intended to establish a solid foundation for the UMiD Alumni network with the help of those in attendance. During the meeting, we outlined the key reasons for establishing this community, discussed how it would operate, what the structure should be, and we planned our next steps.
The Institute has been working on establishing the UMiD Alumni community to better understand the current needs of previous UMiD participants and offer opportunities for reunions, sharing ideas, and discussions. The UMiD Alumni community will build a network of empowered professionals across various fields who can support and create new opportunities for current and future UMiD participants.
The event was filled with smiles, cherished memories, and long-awaited hugs, brimming with motivation, valuable suggestions, and a variety of ideas on how to make this process as efficient as possible. At this first alumni gathering, many attendees said that they wanted to give back to UMiD for what it gave them years ago and to reconnect with others who share the same values. Some of the participants noted that the UMiD Alumni community is one big family where everyone learns from each other.
From 2005 until today, more than 400 participants have attended one of 17 UMiD trainings. They are now spread across various countries around the world and hold important positions in BiH. They work in a variety of fields – our UMiD Alumni are journalists, politicians, elected officials, prominent youth workers, entrepreneurs, social workers, psychologists, athletes, doctors, etc.
The Institute is proud to see that UMiD memories remain so strong, with participants still connected by the same values, whether they finished UMiD one year or seventeen years ago. This first meet-up far exceeded our expectations. Those who were unable to join us today can plan to do so in September. You can register to participate HERE. We look forward to new meetings.
UMiD stays with you forever!
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