A New Generation of Leaders: The Path Toward a More Equitable Society in Bosnia and Herzegovina

With enthusiasm, vision, and a shared sense of purpose, the first group of participants in the Young Leaders for the Future programme came together to explore the transformative power of youth activism and volunteerism. The two-day training, held on 24 and 25 May, marked the beginning of an ambitious journey to empower young people across Bosnia and Herzegovina to become drivers of positive change in their communities. 

The training, titled “Activism and Volunteerism” and organized by the civil society organization Nešto Više, brought together youth from ten local communities: Bosanska Krupa, Doboj, Glamoč, Gornji Vakuf–Uskoplje, Milići, Mostar, Stolac, Teslić, Tuzla, and Zvornik. This activity is implemented as part of the Young Leaders for the Future initiative, which forms an integral part of the joint United Nations project “A more Equitable Society: Promoting Social Cohesion and Diversity in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Dialogue for the Future 3”, funded by the United Nations Secretary General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF). 

Throughout the training, the youth actively engaged in a dynamic combination of theoretical knowledge and interactive workshops, from individual and group exercises to plenary sessions and personal reflections, led by experienced trainer Adina Halilović. The programme focused on personal development, leadership identity, volunteerism, and youth engagement, empowering participants to recognize their own potential as agents of positive social change. 

“Participating in the training helped me better recognize my own abilities and space for personal development. Through practical exercises, teamwork, and experience-sharing, I realized how important it is to listen to others, make thoughtful decisions, and take responsibility. It gave me the confidence to trust in my ideas and initiatives, even when facing challenges. I believe this experience will shape my future role in the community by encouraging me to be more proactive in launching activities that contribute to its development—especially around environmental protection and youth engagement. I learned that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest, but being consistent, having a vision, and motivating others to work toward change together.”, said Berina Amidžić, training participant. 

The training delivered on its objectives: the participants demonstrated a high level of motivation, proactiveness, and readiness to learn and take action. Through collaborative work, a positive group dynamic was developed, and participants had the opportunity to exchange experiences, reflect on their role in the community, and recognize their potential for future active participation in social processes. 

“I think the strength of the training was in bringing together people from different local communities and giving us the chance to exchange experiences and learn about places we might otherwise never hear of. I don’t know exactly how it will shape my role, but becoming more aware of the situations and challenges in other communities can only help in better understanding the country we live in.”, noted Tarik Bajramović, training participant. 

In the coming months, the participants will continue with structured learning modules, mentoring support, and hands-on engagement within their local communities. They will be encouraged and supported to design and implement their own initiatives that promote volunteerism, social cohesion, and peacebuilding, contributing to more resilient and inclusive local communities. 

The Dialogue for the Future 3 – DFF3 project is implemented by UNDP, UNICEF and UNESCO, in cooperation with the United Nations Resident Coordinator, and in partnership with the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The project is funded by the United Nations Secretary General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF).