BASIC INFORMATION
The initiative “Young Leaders for the Future” is implemented under the project “A Fairer Society: Promoting Social Cohesion and Diversity in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Dialogue for the Future 3” (DFF3 project), funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (PBF). The project is jointly implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in cooperation with the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
LEADERSHIP PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
The leadership program, implemented through the “Young Leaders for the Future” initiative, provides young people from Bosnia and Herzegovina with a unique opportunity to develop leadership and communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to identify challenges in their communities. Through this one-year program, 20 selected young leaders will have the opportunity to learn from mentors, collaborate with peers from different local communities, and develop and implement their own initiatives focused on volunteering, social activism, and positive societal change.
The program is closely linked to the work of Local Dialogue Platforms (LDP) and is designed to empower youth to actively participate in shaping the future of their communities. The citizen association “NEŠTO VIŠE” has been engaged by the DFF3 project as an experienced organization in youth work, with the aim of motivating, empowering, and engaging youth to act in local communities, contributing to the strengthening of social cohesion, building trust, and promoting peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
WHO WE ARE
The citizen association “NEŠTO VIŠE” promotes positive societal change by providing opportunities for individuals and groups to develop into competent and responsible leaders through formal and non-formal education, networking, work, shared experiences, and helping others, fostering openness and a sense of belonging in their society.
WHO CAN APPLY?
Young people aged 16 to 30, residing in 10 local communities – Bosanska Krupa, Doboj, Glamoč, Gornji Vakuf-Uskoplje, Milići, Mostar, Stolac, Teslić, Tuzla, and Zvornik.
Note: If a minor is applying, in case of selection, a signed parental/guardian consent form must be provided (consent form is attached – Consent Form).
WHAT THIS PROGRAM OFFERS
The “Young Leaders for the Future” program provides youth with an opportunity for personal and professional development by strengthening leadership, volunteering, and social activism skills. The program aims to enhance participants’ abilities, give them practical experience, and encourage them to become agents of positive change in their communities.
📌 Structured training program – Participants will undergo five interactive trainings (two one-day and three two-day sessions), enabling them to acquire knowledge and practical skills in activism, volunteering, communication, and project documentation writing.
📌 Practical application of knowledge – Between training modules, participants will have the opportunity to apply acquired knowledge through organizing volunteer actions and initiatives in their local communities, directly contributing to strengthening social cohesion and building peace.
📌 Mentorship and networking – Throughout the program, young leaders will work with experienced mentors who will guide them through identifying community problems and developing concrete solutions. Participants will also connect with youth from different parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, exchange experiences, and build long-term relationships.
📌 Development of concrete projects – Through the program, participants will learn the basics of project cycle management and will be able to apply this knowledge in designing and implementing their own initiatives that respond to the needs of their communities.
Program thematic areas:
✔ Activism – Empowering youth for proactive engagement and advocacy for positive change
✔ Volunteering and peacebuilding – Raising awareness about the importance of volunteering, social cohesion, and mutual understanding
✔ Communication – Strengthening public speaking, negotiation, team dynamics, and digital communication skills
✔ Identifying community needs and proposing solutions – Learning methods for mapping problems and designing innovative solutions for local challenges
✔ Project cycle management – Writing project proposals, planning activities, managing budgets, and reporting
💡 This program offers more than education – it provides an opportunity for personal growth, networking, and tangible contribution to the community!
WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM YOU?
If you believe that youth can bring positive change and want to acquire concrete skills to help you realize your ideas, this program is the right opportunity for you! Through “Young Leaders for the Future”, you will gain knowledge, support, and a network of contacts that will help you make a real impact.
📌 What we expect from you:
🚀 Active participation and commitment – Join five inspiring training sessions, where you will develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills through interactive workshops and practical exercises.
🔥 Passion for community change – If you are driven to improve your local community through social initiatives, volunteering, or environmental projects, this is your chance to act!
💡 Developing a concrete idea with a positive social impact – Do you have an idea to solve a problem in your community? We will help you develop it and turn it into a real initiative that can make a difference!
🤝 Engagement with civil society organizations – During the program, you will connect with organizations already working on social change, gain experience, and become part of a wider network of active youth.
🎯 Willingness to learn and work with mentors – You won’t be alone on this journey! Throughout the process, experienced mentors and experts will support you in developing your ideas and improving your skills.
🌍 Identifying problems and finding solutions – Think like a leader! Define a social and/or environmental problem you want to address and find innovative solutions together with your peers and mentors.
✨ Originality and creativity – Your project should be unique and innovative! If you already have experience in similar programs, come with a new idea that can bring fresh perspective and added value to your community.
HOW TO APPLY?
Please fill out the application form by clicking [here] no later than April 2, 2025, at 23:59.
After submission, the team of the citizen association “NEŠTO VIŠE” will review applications. Candidates who meet the basic criteria and demonstrate the greatest motivation for developing their own capacities and community will be invited for an online interview, after which the final selection of participants will be made.
Selected candidates will be directly contacted no later than April 11, 2025.
For any additional questions, you can contact the citizen association NEŠTO VIŠE via e-mail: prijava@nestovise.org
Note: incomplete applications will not be considered.
The Dialogue for the Future 3 – DFF3 project is implemented by UNDP, UNICEF, and UNESCO, in cooperation with the United Nations Resident Coordinator, and in partnership with the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Ministry of Civil Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The project is funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (PBF).
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