On Thursday and Friday, December 5th and 6th, the Hollywood Hotel in Sarajevo became a center of youth togetherness and proactivity through the hosting of the Annual Youth Bank Mosaic Conference . This two-day event brought together young leaders, volunteers, local authorities, financial partners and collaborators to work together to improve our society, their communities and create a sustainable future.
As every year, the conference offered a diverse and meaningful program, a program through which participants had the opportunity to exchange experiences, gain new knowledge and inspiration, and strengthen a network of support and cooperation.
What did we achieve at the conference?
During the conference, we organized panel discussions on topics that are crucial for the further progress of society:
- Gender equality – we talked about ways to empower young women and remove gender barriers.
- Quality education – we discussed the importance of accessible and inclusive education as a foundation for development.
- Decent work and economic growth – with a particular emphasis on opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
- Development of personal and professional skills – so that young people can become agents of change in their communities.
These discussions not only inspired the participants, but also confirmed the importance of adapting the work of Youth Banks to the times (dynamic social changes) and the needs of future generations.
Young Entrepreneurs’ Sales Fair
One of the highlights of the conference was the sales fair, where young entrepreneurs from the Mozaik Youth Bank portfolio presented themselves. Ten businesses presented their products and services. This opportunity allowed them to connect with potential customers and other entrepreneurs.
International Day of Volunteers
A special moment of the conference was the celebration of International Volunteer Day, when we announced the Top 10 volunteers of the Mozaik Youth Banks : Semir Muhić – OB Živinice, Milica Pavlović – OB Doboj, Ermin Mandžuka – OB Zenica, Dajana Bašić – OB Prnjavor, Sumeja Essidiri – OB Tešanj, Suzana Rađenović – OB Novi Grad, Melisa Softić – OB Kladanj, Marko Bašić – OB Novi Grad, Đorđe Dujković – OB Doboj, Igor Bajić – OB Stanari. Their contribution to the community serves as an inspiration to all of us.
Announcement of the best Youth Banks
The most successful Youth Banks (OB Doboj, OB Travnik, OB Zenica) were awarded for the implementation of projects and registration of microbusinesses, thereby setting the standard for future work. Their successes are an inspiration for all other teams.
The results of the Mozaik youth banks were presented
This year, Mozaik Youth Banks achieved outstanding results: the total value of the projects is 1,677,922 KM , 617 projects were implemented , and 9,890 volunteers and 126,986 beneficiaries were involved . Our initiatives were supported by 262 institutions , 207 organizations , 182 businesses and 654 citizens , which confirms our commitment to creating sustainable change and strengthening the community.
Vision of the future of Youth Banks
The most significant novelty of this conference was the presentation of the transformed work model of Mozaik Youth Banks for the period 2025-2035. This refreshed approach, which emphasizes digitalization, inclusiveness and long-term sustainability, represents a significant step forward. Participants had the opportunity to exchange ideas and make their suggestions through interactive sessions, thus becoming active creators of change.
Thanks to partners and look to the future
This conference brought new opportunities, challenges and moments that remind us of the power of togetherness. All that we have achieved would not have been possible without the support of our partners, especially the Swiss Development Agency (SDC) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), whose trust and inspiring speeches have not only strengthened our work, but also reminded us of the importance of our mission.
But the real strength of Mozaik actually lies in you – volunteers, young leaders, entrepreneurs and all the people who create change with their efforts. The strength is not only in ideas or structures, but in those who believe in togetherness, solidarity and building a better future.
Thank you to each of you who contributed to the strengthening of our communities with your work, ideas and energy. Every change, every project and every success we presented at the conference is proof of our strength when we work together.
New opportunities and challenges are ahead of us, but what unites us is stronger than all obstacles. Together we are building a story that will last.
– Together we can make big changes –
The 2024 Mosaic Youth Banks Annual Conference was much more than a conference – it was confirmation that young people are ready to take responsibility, adapt to change, and lead their communities to success.
We look forward to future projects and the opportunity to work together to create a society based on solidarity, innovation, and equal opportunities for all.
Thank you for being a part of this story!
Source: rolify.com
