During May and June 2026, a mentoring program aimed at empowering a young girl with disabilities, Merisa Čeliković, was implemented by mentor Adisa Kišić. The activities were dedicated to developing communication skills, strengthening self-confidence and encouraging more active participation in social life.
At the beginning of the program, the participant showed insecurity in social situations, especially when it was necessary to talk about herself, express her own opinion or be the center of attention. Through individual mentoring work, conversations and practical exercises, she developed communication skills, strengthened her self-confidence and gradually got out of her comfort zone.
Special focus was on recognizing personal values and building a more positive self-image. Through conversations about identity and own potential, the participant recognized her qualities, interests and abilities, shifting the focus from limitations to what she can and wants to achieve.
Significant progress in social inclusion was also achieved during the program. The participant took part in an interview for a magazine dedicated to people with disabilities, accepted a photo shoot and took part in the filming of an educational short film about the proper treatment of people who use wheelchairs. These activities contributed to her greater self-confidence, visibility and more active advocacy of inclusion.
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At the end of the program, significant changes in communication, emotional stability and self-confidence were observed. Today, the participant expresses her opinion more confidently, is more open in contact with others and is more ready for new challenges. She points out that she manages her emotions more easily, is less burdened by other people's reactions and increasingly recognizes her own qualities, abilities and achievements.
The mentoring program once again confirmed that individual support, trust and continuous work can contribute to greater independence, visibility and active participation of people with disabilities in the community.
The program is implemented through I.C. "Lotos", within the Network of Women with Disabilities, with the support of the European Disability Forum, Kynnys ry and Trag foundation / OAK Foundation.
