Meet our 2024 Alumni

Amina Čehaja (IBU: Electrical and Electronics Engineering | PT: Protagonist (ENFJ) | From: Sarajevo

Being in a healthy and successful group of people with similar interests and big dreams was something I was looking for when I just started my studies, so I tried my chance with the BHFF, and from that moment they proved to me nothing but that. Having a large group of such people is really a treasure worth keeping. This sense of belonging has driven me over these years and fueled my passion for volunteering. I never saw it as work but rather as a way to fill my batteries. The inner satisfaction you feel after those spent hours is irreplaceable. Most of the time I spent volunteering was tutoring high-school students in Math and Electronics. I could never even explain the joy I felt when they improved their grades and their success became significant. Their accomplishments were my motivation to do a better job myself. Moreover, having a mentor who believes in your abilities and pushes you to work harder, shapes you into a person who is not scared to take risks, confident in yourself, and who is aiming for higher goals. Nothing is impossible when you have someone to give you proper advice, guide you in the right direction, something where a mentor can help you really make a big difference.

Andrej Madunić (University of Sarajevo: Psychology | Personality test: Commander (ENTJ) | From: Sarajevo)

BHFF brought me some very important moments during a challenging period of transitioning from one field of study to another. In that sense, I believe I gained the most from the people within the foundation, who provided me with a wide range of advice that helped me during times when I honestly didn’t know what to do with my life. I mention the wide range because, looking back, I see the benefits I received from my mentors, who were a great support and encouragement when I needed it, as well as the more critical feedback that pushed me to get internally organized and get my act together. As a freshman, I inherited the mentality from our education system of simply doing what I was told and only as much as I was told, without exploring the Foundation as a platform where I could contribute in my own way. My first and biggest piece of advice for future juniors is to look for ways to express themselves through BHFF from the start. This way, they will see BHFF as something that belongs to them. After that, volunteering becomes a trivial matter because you’re doing something you truly care about.

Hanan Velić (UNSA: Nutrition and food science | Personality test: Protagonist (ENFJ) | From: Sarajevo)

After finishing high school in Sarajevo, I realized that my focus had been almost entirely on academics, leaving little room for personal growth in other areas. I hadn’t done much volunteering, my soft skills were underdeveloped, and even writing my first CV felt uncomfortable. It was clear that I needed to broaden my experiences beyond the classroom. After researching and hearing positive stories from scholars of the BH Futures Foundation, I decided to apply. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions of my life. My time with BH Futures Foundation has significantly impacted both my personal and professional growth. One of the most rewarding experiences with the foundation was working on the Passion Project assigned to us junior scholars. It was my first time working on a project of that magnitude with a group of people I had just met, and naturally, I struggled with self-doubt and uncertainty. But through patience and tenacity, we managed to complete the project successfully. This experience gave me a sense of accomplishment and the confidence to believe that I can achieve even greater things in the future.

Haris Gusic (Faculty of Information Technolgies | Personality test: Consul (ESFJ) | From: Jablanica)

Volunteering with the BH Futures Foundation was a remarkable experience that influenced both my personal and professional development. One of the primary reasons I became engaged was the desire to experience all the opportunities that BH Futures Foundation provides, but also to give back to the community and make a positive difference while also making new friends and improving my network and expertise. Being a part of the IT department team right now, as well as the Ambassador team in my first year, has provided me with essential experience. BH Futures Foundation has inspired me to be active and participate in as many activities as possible, with the Foundation offering support and amazing workshops and education.  A highlight of my time at the BH Futures Foundation was the opportunity to travel to Gothenburg, Sweden. This experience allowed me to promote the Foundation on the international stage and to meet exceptional professionals working in some of the best companies in the world. The BH Futures Foundation community is extremely supportive, encouraging everyone to grow and flourish. This sense of community, combined with the skills I developed, allowed me to feel well prepared for my future career and confident in my ability to lead and collaborate effectively with others in any professional environment.

Ena Milković (SSST: Computer Science | Personality test: Advocate (INFJ) | From: Sarajevo)

My experience with BH Futures Foundation has been nothing short of transformative. When I first joined, I was eager to grow but somewhat unsure of how to navigate my path. Through the foundation, I’ve built lasting friendships with people who have not only supported me but have also helped me discover a deep love for working with others. Professionally, the foundation has provided me with countless opportunities to refine my communication and leadership skills, which have proven invaluable in every aspect of my life. The environment here pushes you to excel, but it does so with a safety net, ensuring that you can take risks and learn from them in a way that’s both challenging and supportive. This balance has allowed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated, making me more prepared for future challenges and opportunities. One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had with the foundation was traveling to the Women in Data Science conference in Budapest and the WeAreDevelopers conference in Berlin. These trips were more than just professional opportunities—they were pivotal moments in my journey with the foundation.

Surejja Alibegovic (University of Zenica: Computer Software Engeneering | PT: Protagonist (ENFJ) | From: Zenica)

The BH Futures Foundation has been crucial in motivating me to explore more opportunities within my field of study. The foundation inspired me to volunteer, driven by a desire to give back to the community and help others develop their skills, just as the foundation has done for me. Through my involvement, I’ve not only honed my leadership abilities but also had a better experience during my internships by successfully addressing teamwork challenges, thanks to the knowledge and skills I gained from the foundation. The experience has significantly impacted both my personal and professional growth, teaching me the value of collaboration and resilience in overcoming obstacles. The foundation’s support has also deepened my commitment to my educational journey, and I would encourage new volunteers to embrace the learning opportunities and engaging through the network that the foundation offers.

Vladimir Mijic (University of Banja Luka: Computer Science | Personality test: Consul (ESFJ) | From Banja Luka)

I joined the foundation hoping to find a community where I could develop and contribute, and the scholarship proved to be a game changer on that path. It provided me with the resources and support needed to deepen my involvement and make a more significant impact. Through this opportunity, I was able to enhance my skills while being able to connect with like-minded individuals. During my first two years with BHFF, I had the opportunity to improve myself, participate in several abroad mobility programs, and expand my professional network. Most importantly, I've developed lifetime friendships with ambitious people, people eager to pursue their passions and make an impact. These connections, along with the transformative mentorship of Dragana Marinković, helped me achieve the professional and personal goals I had set for myself, leading to achievements like winning third place in a startup competition. The BH Futures Foundation and its people have truly inspired me to go further. For future scholars, If you're ready to embrace challenges, step outside your comfort zone, and dedicate yourself to the foundation's mission, I encourage you to join us. 

Dženana Damadžić (University of Tuzla: Electrical Engineering | Personality test: Advocate (INFJ) |From: Tuzla)

Being part of BHFF has been a transformative experience for me. The foundation brings together a diverse group of dedicated professionals and passionate youth who are committed to building a healthier and brighter future for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Immersed in such a vibrant environment, I have found immense inspiration and motivation to strive for excellence alongside my peers. Among the many memorable moments at BHFF, the Oslo Meet-Up stands out as a highlight. This event provided me with the chance to learn from distinguished professionals, visit companies relevant to my field of study, and experience the city while bonding with fellow scholars. The insights and experiences from this event have been incredibly enriching. Overall, I feel well-prepared for my future career, thanks to the diverse insights and interactions I've experienced within the foundation. Meeting individuals from various fields has not only broadened my perspective but also highlighted how their mindset and courage can influence our own professional journeys.

Selma Hrustić (UNSA: Electrical Engineering | Personality test: Adventurer (ISFP) | From: Sarajevo)

Alejna Hodžić (UNSA: Electrical Engineering, Computing and Informatics | PT: Architect (INTJ) | From: Tuzla

I'm currently a team member in the Volunteering department in BH Futures Foundation. I had found out about BHFF via Instagram and I got interested in becoming a member, but what really convinced me into applying and becoming a Changemaker myself was how welcoming, friendly, supportive and aspirational everyone was. And that is exactly why BHFF is a great environment for both personal and professional growth. Thanks to the support and encouragement I got from other scholars and staff within BHFF I have been able to improve my public speaking skills, team work, project management skills and definitely time management skills as well as many more. I believe many things I learned in these past two years have helped me a lot and will continue to be useful in my further education and work life as well. So for any future scholars and volunteers in the BHFF, my advice is to connect with other scholars, use as many opportunities as they like (and there's a lot) and possibly form friendships that'll last a lifetime.

Elma Alic (University of Tuzla: Faculty of Electrical Engineering | PT: Protagonist (ENFJ) | From: Tuzla

Lamija Maglić (UNSA: Electrical Engineering | Personality test: Protagonist (ENFJ) | From: Sarajevo

I was drawn to volunteer with BHFF because it provided a unique opportunity to support a cause I'm passionate about while broadening my own horizons. With a strong background in volunteering, I’ve always believed in the value of giving back to the community. BHFF offered a chance to make a meaningful impact, aligning with my dedication to helping others and my wish to be part of something bigger. This experience has allowed me to contribute to an important cause and continue my journey of personal growth and community engagement. My advice to new volunteers is to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Don’t hesitate to try different roles and experiences—you never know where you might find your passion or what skills you’ll develop. Volunteering is a unique chance to learn, grow, and make a difference, so don’t let any opportunities slip by. Additionally, I highly recommend finding a mentor. A good mentor can provide guidance, share valuable insights, and help you navigate your volunteering journey. Make the most out of your relationship with your mentor by asking questions, seeking feedback, and learning from their experiences. The effort you put into your volunteering work will pay off, not just in the impact you make, but also in the personal and professional growth you’ll experience.

Ajla Korman (International Burch University: Information Technology | Personality test: Advocate (INFJ) | From: Sarajevo)

I decided to start volunteering with BH Futures Foundation to make new connections and gain valuable knowledge. This experience has been transformative, helping me become more extroverted and significantly improving my communication and presentation skills. Meeting professionals in the industry has also provided me with insights into the tools and technical skills essential for my field of interest. If you’re someone who might be shy, introverted, or simply looking to meet new people while enhancing your soft or technical skills (or both), I highly recommend joining BHFF. The foundation offers various opportunities for personal growth, such as mentorship, internships, company visits, and conferences, all while providing a supportive network of people committed to helping you succeed, without any judgment.

Hanah Sijerčić (International Burch University:Information Technology | Personality test: Adventurer (ISFP) | From: Sarajevo)

I was inspired to volunteer with the BH Futures Foundation because I deeply resonate with its mission to empower youth through education and technology. The chance to support the development of future leaders while contributing to a cause that aligns with my values was incredibly motivating. Volunteering with the foundation has been nothing short of transformative. On a personal level, it has significantly deepened my sense of empathy and social responsibility. Professionally, I've gained invaluable insights into teamwork, leadership, and community engagement. One of the most memorable moments of my journey was my first mentorship session as a junior scholar. My mentor’s kindness, valuable advice, and the supportive atmosphere she created made a lasting impact on me. That experience, being my first mentorship ever, went beyond my expectations and will remain a cherished memory. The journey with BH Futures Foundation has provided me with a clearer sense of direction in my career and boosted my confidence to embrace new challenges. Overall, volunteering with the foundation has enhanced my individual growth while contributing to our collective success.

Omar Zunic (University in Mostar: Computer Software Engineering | PT: Campaigner (ENFP) | From: Livno

I joined the foundation based on a recommendation from a university friend, who highlighted its appealing attributes. Throughout my time with the foundation, I have experienced significant personal and professional development. My communication skills have notably improved, enabling me to engage effectively in a wide range of topics. Additionally, I have built a network of valuable connections and friendships. My advice to new members is to embrace new opportunities with an open mind. There are no downsides to trying new things—every experience offers valuable learning opportunities. If a particular endeavor does not meet your expectations, you gain insight and experience; if it does succeed, you may discover a new passion or calling. Initially, I underestimated my own leadership abilities. However, my experiences within the foundation have demonstrated the importance of people and relationships. Providing opportunities to individuals and giving them a chance can lead to remarkable personal and professional advancements, often beyond what one could achieve alone.

Iman Korić Hasanović (UNSA: Mechanical Engineering | Personality test: Protagonist (ENFJ) | From: Sarajevo

Asja Resić (IBU: Electircal and Electronics Engineering | PT: Consul (ESFJ) | From: Sarajevo

I’ve always believed that change starts with the youth and that beginning on a micro-level can make a significant impact. My goal has been to improve my surroundings in any way I can. On a personal level, volunteering has provided me with the satisfaction of doing something good for others, while professionally, it has allowed me to connect with many influential people, including securing an internship opportunity. One memorable experience from my time with BHFF was the entire trip to Vienna. The people I met there were wonderful, and every moment spent was enriching. Additionally, participating in FLS '23 was a highlight that I’ll always cherish. Through my volunteering experience, I’ve learned a lot about teamwork and collaboration. I've realized that every person has their unique significance and deserves a chance because everyone excels in something. BHFF has given me confidence, which I believe is one of the fundamental qualities for success.

Almedin Mešić (University of Tuzla: Faculty of Electrical Engineering | PT: Architect (INTJ) | From: Gračanica

My motivation for volunteering with BH Futures Foundation stems from a deep belief in the power of education. I see education as the cornerstone of a prosperous future for our country. Volunteering has been pivotal in my personal journey. It has helped me overcome my anxiety about interacting with people and has significantly boosted my confidence. One of the most valuable skills I've developed through this experience is communication. Effective communication has become a key asset in both my personal and professional life. One of the most rewarding projects I’ve been involved in is the Game Development workshop for the BHFF Mobile Makerspace team. Teaching game development, which is one of my favorite subjects, was an incredibly gratifying experience. It allowed me to share my passion for how games are created and how they function, contributing to the growth of others in a meaningful way. Overall, volunteering with BH Futures Foundation has better prepared me for my future career. I’ve learned valuable lessons in teamwork and task management, and I now feel more equipped to handle professional challenges. My advice to others is to seize every opportunity, pursue what you enjoy, and make the most of the experiences that come your way.

Asja Hadzic (Academy Tuzla: Informational Technologies | PT: Debater (ENTP) | From: Tuzla

One thing that motivated me the most to volunteer in the BH Futures Foundation were amazing colleagues and great opportunities! The same opportunities which helped me improve and skyrocket almost my whole life. My advice to new volunteers joining the Founcation is to test out as many volunteeting opportunities as you can, because you never know which of these opportunities can help you in different aspects of your career and life. When I first became a scholar, I never knew things like Marketing or Management would peak my interest. Thanks to the wonderful staff, fellow volunteers and scholars, I was introduced to the amazing world of Marketing. By working and learning the different layers of marketing, I was able to create various campaigns, brand myself better and be directly involved in the creative process. One of my greatest moments was volunteering for Futures Leaders Summit 2024 and seeing first-hand the magic of event planning and physical branding. Those few days will stay forever in my memories. Bosnia and Herzegovina Futures Foundation is definitely one of the best things I signed up for and already shaped my career for the better!

Lamija Ahmetašević ( Gimnazija “Mustafa Novalić | Personality test: Commander (ENTJ) | From: Gradačac

I joined the BHFF Ignite Program while I was still in high school, driven by a desire to make a substantial step forward after feeling somewhat passive with my free time. Applying to the program felt like a significant leap toward personal growth and engagement. With the communication skills I’ve developed, I now feel confident attending any interview. The collaborative nature of the Foundation has made me proficient in teamwork, adaptability, and critical thinking. I firmly believe that those who pursue informal education stand out significantly. BHFF is all about giving back. They provide incredible opportunities, mentoring, training, psychological support, and resources in exchange for a relatively small amount of volunteering hours, which are primarily spent advancing our community. Being part of BHFF means having a dedicated support system always cheering you on. As a Senior, mentoring newer generations and witnessing their growth into inspiring individuals is a uniquely fulfilling experience. BHFF truly is a strong community that celebrates every success and supports its members wholeheartedly.