The European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated yesterday the successful conclusion of this year’s Generation Change programme. This year’s programme engaged 600 young people from across the country, out of which 11 of them have been awarded a study trip to Brussels.

For the second year in a row, Generation Change provided young people from different parts of the county and backgrounds a unique platform to connect, collaborate, and innovate. With two components of the programme, outreach to students at public universities, as well as a Youth Political Academy, Generation Change provided young people with tools to develop their ideas and social media campaign which enabled them to reach over 5 million people.

"Generation Change is not just a programme —it's a movement of young minds coming together to build ideas for a better future for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The enthusiasm and creativity shown by young people from across the country are truly impressive. I’m confident that the experiences gained here, and soon in Brussels, will empower these young leaders to make a lasting impact.” emphasised Johann Sattler, the Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Jovana Perić, a student from the Faculty of Business Economics in Bijeljina emphasized that all participants will agree that this experience was different and more interesting than anything they have participated in so far. “The energy was always very friendly and positive, which contributed to each of us showcasing our potential and creativity.” says  Jovana.

This year’s Generation Change story is a testament to the talent, innovation, and cooperation of Bosnia and Herzegovina's youth. In recognition of their outstanding efforts, the best-performing participants have been awarded a study trip to Brussels, where they will have the opportunity to present their work and gain valuable insights into the functioning of the European Union.

"Being a part of the Generation Change Youth Political Academy has truly been an honour and a privilege. The Academy brought together people I might never have met otherwise, who have now become close friends. We explored cities across Bosnia and Herzegovina together, worked on joint initiatives, learned from each other, and supported one another. I was particularly impressed by my colleagues, with some of whom now I can share experience of traveling together to EU HQ.", concludes Lejla Mustafić, Youth Political Academy participant.

Link to winning team’s video is here.