Youth Work Week in Bosnia and Herzegovina began right where youth work has long had its stronghold – in Zavidovići. On International Youth Day, August 12th, young people from this city gathered to celebrate their achievements and send a powerful message of unity and change.
The program opened with a presentation of results that youth organizations and organizations working with young people achieved in the past year, followed by an outdoor film screening focused on activism. Young people watched inspiring and motivating stories together, and the evening was filled with music, conversation, and the kind of energy that brings people together.
“This was the perfect opportunity to celebrate our achievements from the past year, but also to thank our hard-working volunteers and activists for improving the local community,” said Belmin Bećiragić from the Zavidovići Municipality Youth Council.
The event was an opportunity for young people from different initiatives and associations to come together, celebrate their day, share experiences, and once again show how they drive positive change. Such gatherings best show how important it is to have youth workers who can bring young people together, inspire them, and support them in creating new opportunities.
Youth Work Week is an initiative of the Institute for Youth Development KULT, created to celebrate the dedication and creativity of young people and those who work with them. Activities across BiH reminds us that young people deserve space to be seen, and youth work should be recognized as a force that changes society.
WHY DO WE CELEBRATE YOUTH WORK WEEK?
Because youth work changes lives. It creates opportunities where there might not have been any. It empowers young people to believe in themselves and take action. It engenders trust, skills, solidarity, and hope. Youth Work Week is our first step toward creating a tradition that celebrates achievements while also opening space for discussion about the challenges and needs of young people in BiH. Youth Work Week builds on the Second Convention on Working with Youth in BiH and the Fourth European Convention on Youth Work, representing a joint step forward in strengthening the youth sector in our country.
Zavidovići opened this story in the most beautiful way – by giving a voice to young people and their ideas.
