Hadzera Selimovic
Hadzera Selimovic, a student of Political Science and International Relations at the Sarajevo School of Science and Technology (SSST)/University of Buckingham in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her academic and professional journey. Her commitment to youth activism began at the age of 12 and has since taken her across borders. In 2019, as a participant in the US Embassy Youth Leadership Program, she discovered her passion for diplomacy and leadership. In 2022, Hadzera continued her commitment to civic engagement as a BOLD Civic Engagement Fellow in Nebraska, Omaha, gaining valuable insights into community empowerment. She’s also a TEDxYouth organizer, the project was supported by grant from the US Embassy in Sarajevo and Friedrich Neumann Foundation. Beyond her community engagements, Hadzera’s passion for international relations led her to participate in the ERASMUS+ programme, where she spent six enlightening months at the University of Salzburg. Today, she serves as a research analyst at an international consultancy company with a specific focus on the Middle East, adding a valuable layer to her diverse professional portfolio. Her journey is a testament to her dedication to both academic excellence and active engagement in her community and beyond.
I understand that you were involved in ERASMUS. Could you please share more about what motivated you?
My primary motivation was to gain insights into academic practices in other countries. Consequently, I decided to apply for ERASMUS+ to spend a semester studying abroad. I chose Austria and eventually found myself studying in Salzburg. Additionally, I wanted to expand my research experience, and this opportunity was perfect for me as the university I selected was research-oriented, offering classes that differed from what I was accustomed to in my regular institution. Overall, I aimed to understand how things worked in Austria and to foster greater independence by living alone for several months. This experience was seen as preparation for my future pursuit of a master’s degree abroad.
Could you describe your experience and explain how it contributed to your professional development?
Participating in ERASMUS certainly enhanced my CV, a crucial factor when applying for master’s programs. However, my six-month stint abroad, studying at another university, also allowed me to establish valuable professional connections and friendships. Additionally, I had the privilege of interacting with world-renowned professors. In terms of personal development, this experience was transformative. In just six months, I returned as a profoundly changed individual. I had the opportunity to connect with people from diverse cultures; my friends hailed from Egypt, Algeria, France, Italy, and more. This experience significantly broadened my horizons. While I had previously travelled abroad, my time studying in Austria played a pivotal role in shaping my personal growth.
Could you please share some insights into your current professional occupation and tell us more about your career?
Presently, I serve as a political analyst specializing in the Middle East and the Balkans. Specifically, I work for a strategic advisory company that provides services to companies seeking to invest in the Middle East region. My role primarily involves conducting analyses of political and economic risks associated with potential investment ventures. I provide essential support to the company through in-depth secondary research. Additionally, I engage in youth development initiatives here in Bosnia and Herzegovina, although this serves as my secondary focus.
What prompted you to choose this profession?
Interestingly, I stumbled upon my current employer quite by chance in a coffee shop, and our engagement began in an unconventional manner. However, this job has afforded me the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed professors from Harvard and Oxford. The company’s leadership, hailing from academia, adopts a unique approach to consultancy. Frankly, I never envisioned myself working in the consultancy field, as it initially appeared somewhat distant and dry to me. However, I was offered this position, and the company’s distinctive consulting approach piqued my interest. Furthermore, my enduring fascination with the Middle East region, dating back to my studies in political science, played a pivotal role. Most of my university research focused on the Middle East, particularly on the soft power employed by Middle Eastern countries to exert influence in Bosnia and Herzegovina and similar regions. These factors collectively influenced my decision to accept this job and immerse myself in this sector.
You also hold the role of Young European Ambassador (YEA). What motivated you to take on this role, and how has your experience been so far?
I made the decision to become a Young European Ambassador three years ago. Throughout my high school years, I actively engaged with various NGOs. At the time I encountered the call for applications, I was already deeply involved in youth development and social entrepreneurship projects here in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I perceived this opportunity as a means to represent the youth of Bosnia and Herzegovina both within the region and the EU. It also provided me with a chance to interact with decision-makers and gain insights into the workings of the EU integration process. Additionally, I sought to acquire more experience in diplomacy and connect with fellow young individuals in the Western Balkans. These factors were instrumental in motivating me to apply. Over these three years, I believe that we’ve achieved a great deal, and I take pride not only in my own contributions but also in the accomplishments of the entire network of YEAs from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the broader region.
Photo credits: Hadzera Selimovic
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