In the period from May to August 2026, a mentoring process was implemented through which Samira Đidić provided mentoring support to Elmana Sinanović in developing the knowledge and practical skills needed to organize and independently lead peer sessions for young people with disabilities in Zenica.

Elmana previously had no experience in leading peer sessions, which is why the mentoring started with an introduction to the basic principles of peer support and the role of the leader. Special attention is paid to creating a safe and supportive space where young people with disabilities can openly discuss their experiences, needs and challenges.

Mentoring included individual consultations, joint preparation of activities, practical work, exchange of experiences, analysis of held peer sessions and support in documentation and reporting.

The special value of the process was that Elmana immediately applied the acquired knowledge in practice, leading peer sessions for young people with disabilities in Zenica.

As the process progressed, Elmana took on more and more responsibilities - from choosing topics and preparing meetings to communicating with participants, conducting group discussions and reporting. At the same time, the role of the mentor changed: from direct guidance at the beginning to consultative support and feedback.

At the end of the mentoring process, Elmana showed greater confidence and independence in planning and implementing activities, conducting group discussions, recognizing the needs of participants and responding to challenges during peer sessions.

This mentoring shows how important it is to create opportunities where experience and knowledge are passed on. By empowering new female peer leaders, we also strengthen the opportunities for young people with disabilities in their local communities to have space to connect with each other, exchange experiences and support.

The mentoring process was realized through the Empowerment of Women with Disabilities Program of I.C. "Lotos", within the Women's Network of the Union of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the support of the European Disability Forum, Kynnys ry and Trag foundation / OAK Foundation.