In the week in which we record the inhumane attitude towards people with disabilities, ready to criticize the system, demand dismissals, punishments and responsibility, we also record the story when the awareness of citizens is on the test. Namely, 10 months ago, the “Muharem Berbić” Foundation organized and opened a Club of Friends in Kakanj, where disabled waiters are employed. However, due to low attendance, the self-sustainability of this facility is questionable.
Edmin Kobilica and Malik Brkić are waiters in the Club of Friends of the “Muharem Berbić” Foundation. Being given the opportunity to work and communicate with people reduces their daily difficulties due to disability.
“This workplace means a lot to me that I can communicate more with people, socialize. We make the best coffee in town, that’s my favorite thing about this business,” says Malik.
Due to lack of empathy and poor attendance, there is a possibility that this place will be closed. Until now, the Municipality of Kakanj supported them regularly, listening to their needs. However, that is not enough.
“This space is multifunctional and easily adaptable to needs, so we rent the space for book promotions and birthday celebrations. We are open to all negotiations, conversations, ideas”, says Sanda Hasagić-Terzić, executive manager of the Club of Friends of the “Muharem Berbić” Foundation.
We also met conscientious citizens who canceled the promotion of the book at the Public Institution at the last minute, deciding to support their work and survival with their contribution.
“It is very important that we start some activity, action and support this organization in this way. The atmosphere here is beautiful,” says guest Dženan Kubat.
When there are no guests, they make different handicrafts that they sell, Edmin tells. They do not want to be a burden to the state, but to earn their salary.
“That’s when you feel useful when you have your income, your salary. Then you can think about making your dreams come true, because when you have nothing, you have to wait to see if someone will give you something,” Edmin points out.
“After five years of service, a person with a disability has the right to a pension, so they somehow strive and struggle to reach those five years,” adds Hasagić-Terzić.
And so citizens, instead of browsing and liking disturbing pages, whining about the system, calling for a revolution, all they need to do is come to the Friends Club, drink a coffee, and thus save someone’s workplace, thereby contributing to a better life for people with disability. It’s up to us…
