Results of the Fund's program in FBiH: 'I don't feel like a person with a disability, but as part of society'

(Patria) - Persons with disabilities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, through the work of citizens' associations, are increasingly actively participating in
improving their own position and advocating for equal rights. Organized on the principles of voluntary membership and lawful operation, these associations represent an important bridge between the needs of their members and system institutions.

The importance of their work has been recognized by the Fund for Professional Rehabilitation and Employment of Persons with Disabilities of the Federation of BiH, which, through support programs and public calls, ensures financial resources for project implementation and employment sustainability.

Zenica: continuity that brings results

The Association of Paraplegics and Polio Survivors Zenica, founded in 1980, today gathers over 125 members from Zenica, Žepče, Visoko, and Kakanj. Since 2015, they have implemented a series of projects aimed at improving the status of persons with disabilities and their greater inclusion in society.

The President of the Association's Management Board, Harun Aliefendić, emphasizes the importance of institutional support:

"Through the Fund's projects, we realize the future and continuation of our work. Without those funds, we would very likely be languishing somewhere in the middle or below the middle, but continuity of work is crucial for the well-being of persons with disabilities."

Activities on removing architectural barriers are particularly highlighted, which is why Zenica, according to the Association, is considered one of the more accessible cities in BiH.

The experience of personal benefit from the Fund's programs is also shared by the Association's President, Samir Džidić:

"I used the Fund's incentives for employment, as well as for professional rehabilitation, i.e., university tuition costs. Through the Fund, today we have the opportunity for additional training, education, and qualification, which enables us to be competitive in the labor market."

Sarajevo: focus on sustainability and equipment

The Association of the Blind of Sarajevo Canton, founded in 1948, has contributed through years of work to protecting the rights of blind persons. The Association's Director, Fikret Zuko, emphasizes that the Fund's support was crucial for the stable functioning of the organization.

"Lot 5 ensured the sustainability of employed persons with disabilities working in the association. The Fund finances our utility costs, as well as the procurement of modern aids, which enables blind persons to work independently and efficiently," says Zuko.

He adds that without this support, the level of activity and equipment would be significantly lower:

"The Fund has played a significant role, and I am convinced it will continue to do so in the future."

ProREHA and Greens: social entrepreneurship in practice

An example of linking professional rehabilitation and the labor market comes from the ProREHA center and the social enterprise "Greens" d.o.o. The Director and founder, Vedad Vajzović, emphasizes that the company was founded in 2018 with the goal of employing persons with intellectual disabilities in the open labor market.

"The company has adapted workplaces and operates on the principles of social entrepreneurship. We deal with urban and organic food production, which has proven to be a natural and stimulating work environment," states Vajzović, noting that ProREHA and Greens have been cooperating with the Fund for years on improving the employment process.

An employee of "Greens", Amila Redžić, highlights the importance of the work atmosphere: "Here, I don't feel like a person with a disability, but as part of a team that contributes to the company's development. A first negative response is not a sign that one should give up."

Support system

Associations of persons with disabilities in the Federation of BiH, with the support of the Fund, actively contribute to building an inclusive society through projects, employment, and education. Through programs such as LOT 5 and financial incentives for employment, the Fund systematically works on strengthening professional rehabilitation and developing an inclusive labor market, with the aim of ensuring equal opportunities and greater independence for persons with disabilities.