Alumni Success Story: From Volunteer to Scientific Innovator - The Journey of Nermin Đuzić
In the world of science and innovation, passion and perseverance are often the key ingredients for success. For one exceptional alumni of the BH Futures Foundation, this journey began in 2018, right after earning his Bachelor's degree in Genetics and Bioengineering. Eager to refine his skills, enhance career prospects, and nurture the love for science, Nermin took a leap into the BHFF community—a decision that would contribute in shaping his future.
A Transformative Experience
Joining BH Futures Foundation wasn't just about gaining technical knowledge - for Nermin it was about becoming part of a thriving ecosystem that fosters both personal and professional development. Through volunteering, Nermin had the unique opportunity to experience mentorship from seasoned professionals while also giving back by mentoring aspiring young minds. This dual perspective of learning and teaching became an important factor for his growth.
Developing Skills for a Lifetime
Nermin’s time at BHFF was marked by a whirlwind of skill-building experiences. From sharpening communication, presentation, and writing skills to diving into digital marketing and project management, every challenge contributed to his holistic development. Participation in marketing activities, conferences, and events equipped him with the ability to think critically, work efficiently in teams, and embrace an entrepreneurial mindset - an essential trait for success in science and engineering.
Milestones and Achievements
The journey was filled with remarkable milestones. A standout experience was an internship at the Institute of Virology in Germany, an opportunity that broadened his research horizons and expertise. Organizing the BH Engineering Weeks conference in Lukavac provided firsthand exposure to project execution, leadership, and event management. Additionally, Nermin played a vital role in mentoring a high school student, guiding the next generation toward academic and professional excellence. His dedication to the BHFF marketing team was equally impressive—within just a year, he contributed to the publication of over 40 articles!
The Power of Community and Ambition
One of the most profound takeaways from Nermin’s time with BHFF was the power of community. Being surrounded by ambitious, like-minded individuals naturally fueled his own aspirations. This environment played a crucial role in inspiring Nermin to pursue a Master’s degree and later a PhD in Genetics and Bioengineering at International Burch University.
Lessons in Leadership and Collaboration
Through volunteering, he learned that teamwork is more than just working alongside others—it’s about harnessing collective strengths, fostering a feedback-driven culture, and building a family-like support system. Whether it was leading mentorship programs, collaborating on projects, or initiating discussions, BHFF provided the perfect platform to develop leadership skills that would prove invaluable in his scientific career.
Looking Ahead
Today, as a proud BHFF alumnus and PhD candidate, he stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, mentorship, and continuous learning. With newfound confidence in communication, event organization, and idea presentation, they feel more prepared than ever to take on the challenges of the future.
A Message to Future Scholars
"If you're looking for a place that will challenge you, support you, and push you toward becoming the best version of yourself, BH Futures Foundation is where you need to be. The experiences you gain here will not only shape your career but will also instill a mindset of innovation, leadership, and lifelong learning."
Their journey from a volunteer to a scientific innovator exemplifies the mission of BH Futures Foundation—to empower young minds, create future leaders, and build a community where knowledge and passion drive change. And as they continue to push boundaries in science, one thing is certain—their BHFF journey was only the beginning.