What happens when willpower, knowledge, and support come together? Life-changing stories unfold—not just for individuals, but for entire communities. The European Union has helped women, youth, and vulnerable groups in Jablanica and Gornji Vakuf–Uskoplje access new opportunities and education through the project “Through Mentorship to Stronger Local Employment Partnerships (LEP Mentor),” implemented by the Local Employment Partnership under the LEP II initiative.
This project has inspired stories of courage, a return to roots, and the creation of something new from scratch. The journeys of Almedina and Antonela stand as powerful examples of the program’s inclusiveness and the positive impact of mentorship, made possible by the strong support of the European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Support through partnership and mentorship
Through projects funded by the European Union, such as LEP I and LEP II, capacities to support the economic development of communities across Bosnia and Herzegovina are being strengthened. These projects enabled the formation of an Inter-Municipal Partnership for more inclusive business support in Jablanica, Kakanj, and Konjic, which was later expanded to include Mostar, Prozor, and Gornji Vakuf–Uskoplje. In cooperation with local partners such as the LiNK Association, mentoring support is provided for the development of innovative local labor market models and the multiplication of results.
“The project would not be possible without support of the European Union and International Labour Organisation, because the financial support from the EU and mentoring support from the International Labour Organisation were crucial in creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs in local communities. Systematic approach to supporting small businesses was developed and implemented in cooperation with the self-government units, which yielded concrete results. Partnership includes also representatives of civil society, educational and private sector. We have supported the opening of 14 new businesses, strengthened capacities of educational institutions and accredited two reskilling programs for young people,” said Alisa Gekić, Director of the Centre.
Combination of creativity and entrepreneurship
Almedina Letuka from Jablanica is one of the beneficiaries of the entrepreneurship support program. She turned her long-term love for handcrafts and design into own business. She draws inspiration for her unique and quality made handbags from everyday life but also from the need of people to have practical and aesthetically pleasing accessories.
“The biggest challenge is to find balance between the quality, price of the material and being competitive at labour market. I am constantly improving, carefully selecting materials such as natural and eco-leather and try to make every piece as unique and enduring as possible”, said Almedina, owner of the Omal Design brand.
She also added that loving and believing in what you do is the most important: “Beginning is always hard, but over time, the effort, commitment and love will give results. It is important to listen to your clients, learn from each experience and not give up after the first encountered obstacles.”
Small steps, huge progress
Some 50 kilometres further, in her native Gornji Vakuf-Uskoplje, Antonela Sičaja decided to make a huge turn. Following the end of her engagement in Mostar, she returned home and opened the Centre for Development Support Small steps, the only one of such kind in the municipality.
“Starting my own business was a huge step. I always thought that I would find job somewhere, but since that did not happen, I decided to do something myself. And I am glad I did, especially because of the children, because there was no such place here where parents and children could ask for such kind of assistance”, said Antonela, Master of Special Education and Rehabilitation.
The Centre offers educational, rehabilitation and speech therapy interventions, including assistance in learning and children skills development. It also organizes thematic group workshops that help children develop their potentials and sense of community.
Both Almedina and Antonela say that their work is fulfilling, it is their perfect fit, and they use it to bring happiness to others – Almedina through creative and useful products and Antonela through helping the youngest.
Almedina and Antonela’s successful stories are only part of the bigger change taking place thanks to the support of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina. EU supports sustainable economic growth and empowers communities throughout the country through mentorship, education and local partnership development. The project shows how joint forces and clear international support may bring about real changes in the lives of individuals and entire communities in BiH.
