Futures Leaders Summit 2024: Press Conference
Organized by the BH Futures Foundation, the Futures Leaders Summit (FLS) will take place on December 13th and 14th in Sarajevo, bringing together over 30 top-tier speakers and more than 300 students from across the country. This event offers young people a unique opportunity to learn from successful leaders of Bosnian origin with global careers, who selflessly share their knowledge and experiences.
"A Testament to Unity and Selflessness"
At today’s press conference, Selma Begović, Director of the BH Futures Foundation, highlighted that FLS symbolizes collective strength and solidarity.
“This summit is more than an event - it is a testament to the power of kindness, connection, and selflessness. It is brought to life by a small, but dedicated team of staff and volunteers, who give their time and energy to make this vision a reality. This spirit of giving is not only at the heart of the Futures Leaders Summit, but also defines the very essence of the BH Futures Foundation”, said Begović.
Opening Ceremony with Inspiring Speakers and Awards
The first day of the summit begins with early morning workshops and visits to successful local companies, while the opening ceremony is scheduled for 6 PM in the congress hall of the Holiday Hotel. Among the keynote speakers are Eric Nelson, former U.S. Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Namik Hrle, Director of IBM’s Development Lab in Germany.
A special highlight of the ceremony will be the presentation of the "Vera Šnajder" award, sponsored by dm drogerie markt. The award, given to two students selected by a professional jury, includes 3,000 BAM each for scientific travel. Emina Mušinović from dm drogerie emphasized the importance of supporting young talent:
“It was natural for us to support this project. We hope these students will inspire many generations. Additionally, over the past two years, we’ve focused on women’s mental health, organizing conferences that provide support and expert advice.”
Learning from the Best
On the second day of the summit, students will attend lectures and workshops led by extraordinary individuals such as Namik Hrle, Jasmin Alić, Martina Egedušević, Robert Dacešin, Dragana Marinković, and many others. Martina Egedušević, an expert in natural solutions to ecological challenges, expressed her excitement:
“This is my first time speaking at a conference in Bosnia and Herzegovina. My research focuses on mitigating landslides, a critical issue for our country. I look forward to meeting people with whom I can collaborate.”
The Most Accessible Student Event
The BH Futures Foundation has covered all travel, accommodation, registration, and food expenses for 200 students coming from outside Sarajevo, with additional costs covered for other participants. The press conference emphasized the goal of making this summit the most accessible student event in the region.
A Vision for the Future
Over the past eight years, FLS has served as a platform for creating successful individuals who are shaping a brighter future for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“Our goal is to build an ‘army’ of smart and successful young people who will lead Bosnia and Herzegovina toward a better future,” concluded Begović.
Futures Leaders Summit 2024 continues to inspire and motivate young people, proving that collective effort and selflessness can make a significant difference.