Empower the Next Generation of Innovators: Vera Šnajder Award 2024 Applications Now Open
Vera Šnajder: A Beacon of Inspiration for Female Researchers
Vera Šnajder is widely celebrated as a trailblazer among female researchers and an enduring source of inspiration for all. Her remarkable contributions as a leader, educator, mathematician, and above all, as a dedicated humanist, have gather recognition throughout the region. Her story is one of resilience, firm dedication, and a lifelong passion for advancing education and research.
By drawing attention to Vera’s extraordinary journey, we honor not only her legacy but also the values of perseverance and excellence she represented.
Vera Šnajder: A Mathematical Prodigy from Banja Luka
Born in 1907 in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Vera Šnajder’s talent for learning was evident from an early age. Her academic journey led her to the University of Vienna, where she earned her PhD in Mathematics in 1932. Shortly after, she enrolled on a prestigious research fellowship at the renowned Institute Henri Poincaré in Paris.
Her time in France proved to be transformative, both personally and professionally. Surrounded by some of the brightest minds in mathematics, Vera gained deep insights into the world of mathematical research, shaping her future career and contributions to the field.
Vera Šnajder: Pioneering Education and Rebuilding Bosnia and Herzegovina
After her remarkable work in France, Vera Šnajder returned to her homeland to serve as a professor at a Women’s Gymnasium. Following the devastation of WWII, Vera dedicated herself to the intellectual and physical rebuilding of Bosnia and Herzegovina. She became one of the first professors at the College of Pedagogy in Sarajevo and played a crucial role in founding the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Sarajevo, specifically in establishing the mathematics division.
Known for her excellence as a teacher, organizer, and intellectual, Vera’s contributions to the educational landscape of post-war Bosnia and Herzegovina have left a lasting impact.
Vera Šnajder: Breaking Barriers as the First Female Dean in Yugoslavia
Vera Šnajder achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to be elected Dean in all of Yugoslavia. Her influence extended well beyond this role, as she served on the University Senate for many years and contributed to the broader educational landscape of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Her numerous leadership roles included membership on the Educational Board of Bosnia and Herzegovina, president of the Committee of the Board of the National Library, and member of the Committee for the Election of Scientific Associates. She also held the presidency of the Committee for Professorial Exams and led the Yugoslav-French Society as its long-term president.
Vera’s dedication to education and intellectual leadership helped pave the way for future generations of female scholars and leaders.
Why are we telling you about this?
At the Bosnia and Herzegovina Futures Foundation, we believe the best way to honor Vera Šnajder's remarkable legacy is by empowering the next generation of young researchers. To achieve this, we established the Vera Šnajder Award, an annual travel grant presented to two outstanding students in the fields of natural or technical sciences from Bosnia and Herzegovina. This award serves as a testament to Vera’s lifelong dedication to education, research, and the advancement of women in academia. By fostering young talent, we ensure that Vera Šnajder’s influence continues to shape the future of scientific progress in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The first Vera Šnajder Award was presented in 2021 to two promising researchers, providing them with the opportunity to attend a prestigious international conference. This experience allowed them to expand their knowledge, connect with leading researchers from around the world, and broaden their academic horizons. The 2021 recipients, Zlata Jašarević and Zorana Štaka, embody the spirit of the award, and we are incredibly proud of what this year represented—the start of something truly valuable and impactful.
With our support, Zlata had the opportunity to attend a world-class conference in Lisbon, Portugal, marking the beginning of a journey filled with learning, networking, and growth.
In 2022, the Vera Šnajder Award was awarded to two outstanding young researchers, Emina Tahirović and Amina Tucak-Smajić. . Emina Tahirović utilized this grant to present her research at the ICAART Conference in Lisbon, Portugal. This experience allowed her to engage with numerous researchers and professionals, gaining her valuable connections that can enhance her career and contributions to the academic community.
Our 2023 awardees, Dina Karamuratović is using her travel grant to attend a conference in Barcelona and Majra Šišić Čaluk will be using the award for her doctorate needs in Zagreb.ž
We are proud of our collaboration with Al Jazeera Balkans on a documentary titled "Vera Šnajder - bosanskohercegovacka Marie Curie." This collaboration helped us spread the word about the remarkable story of Vera Šnajder and her contributions to science and education.
By supporting our initiative, you will help us keep the legacy of Vera Šnajder alive for many years ahead. Your contribution will enable us to continue changing the lives of young researchers in Bosnia and Herzegovina, providing them with the opportunity to achieve their dreams and contribute to their field. Join us in honoring the remarkable life and achievements of Vera Šnajder and make a meaningful impact on the future of female researchers in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Donate to the Vera Šnajder Award today.
Are you a young female researcher ready to make an impact? Apply now for the Vera Šnajder Award and join a community of innovators shaping the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Click here to find out more!
Important Dates:
Applications Open
September 16th 2024
Online Info Session
September 21th 2024
Application Close
November 3rd 2024 EOD (23:59)
Result Announcement
December 6th 2024
Award Ceremony at FLS in Sarajevo
December 12-14 2024