Ivana is a PhD student at the Faculty of Political Science, University of Belgrade, where she graduated with top marks in International Relations and Contemporary Balkan Studies. She works as a Research Assistant at the Institute for Political Studies and is a member of its Center for Security Studies. Her experience includes writing policy analyses for the Pokret Polet program of the Trag Foundation, mentoring for the UNICEF-supported UPSHIFT program, and participating in international programs such as the European Summer Academy in Otzenhausen, POLITEIA, and the Regional School for Political Development.

Ivana’s key interests include European integration of the Western Balkans, regional security, and post-conflict reconciliation. As a Young European Ambassador, she aims to connect with peers across the region, contribute to initiatives supporting EU integration, foster youth empowerment, and drive positive change through research and hands-on engagement.