Yesterday, the Municipality of Centar Sarajevo hosted and handed over for use a newly renovated apartment to Bosnian and Herzegovinian (BiH) para-swimmer Ismail Zulfic. The keys were presented by Mayor Srdjan Mandic and Councilor Mehmed Muharemovic.
The apartment handover was carried out on the initiative of Centar Municipal Councilor Mehmed Muharemovic, and Ismail Zulfic will use the mentioned apartment in the future with his family.
“Thank you for everything you do, because you do wonders. We have always believed that supporting athletes is key to the development of the community. Ismail, through his efforts and achievements, not only represents our country at international competitions but also sets an example for all young people involved in sports. This apartment handover is not just material support, but also a symbol of our gratitude for his effort and dedication. Ismail, just keep going, because your success is also our success. Congratulations on everything you have achieved, and I hope you continue to be an inspiration to all of us,” said Mandic.
“I am glad that my initiative was supported by the Mayor and my fellow councilors. I wish Ismail much success and hope that the apartment we have handed over to him will be just one of many steps toward his future victories,” said Muharemovic.
The founder and coach of the swimming club “SPID,” Amel Kapo, also expressed gratitude that the Municipality of Centar recognized this initiative.
“Being Ismail Zulfic’s coach is a true privilege. Ismail is not only an elite athlete but also an incredibly dedicated young man who never gives up. Through his achievements, he overcomes all the obstacles life puts in his way, and this apartment handover is truly a reflection of that. Thanks to the Municipality of Centar for this significant step and for recognizing the importance of this initiative, given that Ismail lives near Zenica but trains in Sarajevo. This apartment will primarily ease life for him and then for his entire family,” said Kapo.
Ismail’s father, Ismet Zulfic, also thanked the Mayor and the Municipality of Centar for the apartment handover.
“Today is one of the most special days for our family. This apartment represents all the support Ismail has received from the entire Municipality of Centar. Thanks to everyone who recognized his effort and hard work. Ismail has been passionate about swimming since he was little, and his success in all competitions would not have been possible without the selfless support of his coach, family, and community,” said Zulfic yesterday.
In his career so far, Ismail Zulfic has achieved incredible successes, including breaking the European record in the senior category at the World Para Swimming Championships and winning medals at the Para Swimming World Series in Italy. His placement in the final at the 2025 World Championships in Singapore is further proof of his dedication and outstanding abilities.
Every performance of his confirms that there are no limits for those who believe in their dreams.
Bosnian swimmer Lana Pudar, before leaving for the United States (U.S.) to continue her career, made a wonderful gesture. Pudar decided to give her apartment in Sarajevo, which she had received for use from the Municipality of Centar, to Ismail Zulfic.
The mentioned 78-square-meter apartment underwent a complete renovation in cooperation with socially responsible companies. Representatives of the Department for Housing and Communal Affairs also attended yesterday’s handover, the Centar Municipality Information Department reported.
