What happens when people working for youth empowerment in different parts of the world meet and discover that they are working towards the same kind of future? This is what makes my fellowship with the Youth Council of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina so meaningful to me.

I came to Bosnia and Herzegovina through the Digital Democracy Initiative Fellowship Programme, as part of the Regional Support Mechanism EECA. In Kyrgyzstan, I work as a Programme Coordinator on Eradicating Gender-Based Violence and Human Trafficking at Oasis Public Charitable Foundation, supporting vulnerable young people, particularly those who have experienced violence, exclusion, or marginalization. At Oasis, we believe in communities where everyone is included, able to contribute, and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.


At the Youth Council of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, I see many of the same values, alongside an opportunity to gain extensive experience in youth advocacy. During my fellowship, I will engage with the team and contribute to ongoing work while also learning from their experience in youth advocacy, in a mutual exchange of knowledge and practices. As young people are among those most affected by the crises and uncertainty around us, it is especially important to create spaces where they feel engaged, heard, and prepared to take action. Being part of a team with shared values, even for a short time, is a reminder that meaningful change grows when we connect our experiences, learn from one another, and build stronger pathways for young people together.

Impact does not begin with certainty. The experience has shown that consistency and perseverance are what truly move things forward. That is why I keep choosing here, and wherever it leads me next.