Many businesses are the result of growing a hobby into a job or simply love for someone or something. However, many jobs are created due to coercion for one reason or another. Entrepreneur Fikreta Maličbegović from Žepče, one of those brave women, for whom – being at the bureau – was no longer an option.
You have been at the employment office for a long time – did that encourage you to go into the agricultural world?
That’s right. I decided to move forward and try to achieve my plan and goal with my own efforts and hands. I started growing vegetables, and later I made products for family and friends, which turned out to be the right step.
Did you have any financial help considering the needs of this kind of work?
When I saw that the UN had a project for equipment grants, I realized that it was a great opportunity, because equipment is exactly what I needed the most at the time. I soon applied, then got and registered a trade called “Žepački ajvar”.
Did you have any support from the local government?
I must admit that I had support from the municipality, but also from the Development Agency in Žepče. This really means a lot and gives the wind in the back, to move on. However, the local level is the first, most important, especially in the beginning.
What products do you make – are you based on a smaller or larger quantity and range?
After I officially started working, I started with bigger production. First of all, I would like to point out ajvar, according to which the name of the trade/business came about. I also make various juices, jams, marmalades, salads…
Are you satisfied with your work, considering the period of the pandemic?
It went nicely and still does. I have developed a business, and now I have customers outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is a great pleasure, but also a success. The coronavirus did make everything slow and difficult, but… I hope that the situation will be better soon.
It should be noted that all products are made according to traditional recipes without any additives or chemicals. Try homemade, Žepački ajvar and other delicious and healthy products on offer.
Melika Hrvić
