5 Million Friends of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Dear Friends and Supporters, We are deeply saddened by the devastating floods that have struck Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragedy. We urge all members, partners, and supporters to join us in extending a helping hand to those in need. You can make a direct impact by donating to: - www.pomozi.ba - paypal1@pomozi.ba - note: Poplave 2024 - By calling the number 17039 you donate 2 KM - Bank transfer: Pomozi.ba (Help Bosnia) SWIFT: INGBNL2A IBAN:: NL63INGB0675431905 REF: poplava 2014 an organization actively providing essential aid to flood victims on the ground. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to neighboring countries for their solidarity and support during this critical time. Together, we can bring relief to those who need it most. Sincerely, 5 Million Friends of Bosnia and Herzegovina . . . #floods #naturaldisasters #solidarity #bosniaandherzegovina #5mfbh

We are pleased to officially welcome our newest board member, Marisa Hannewyk from Canada and currently living in Paris to the 5 Million Friends of Bosnia and Herzegovina (5MFBH) association as Vice President and Worldwide Women’s Rights and Trauma Healing Ambassador. This appointment underscores our commitment to inclusivity and global solidarity, championing both Bosnian and universal values. Marisa has been a member and supporter of 5MFBH since summer 2023, and during her first visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina in May 2024, she felt a deep calling to expand her involvement - in particular, supporting and advocating for women. With her extensive banking leadership experience and deep expertise as a spiritual life coach and self-mastery mentor, Marisa aims to create greater support, hope, and inspiration across the globe to those affected by trauma. Drawing from her own experiences and powerful self-healing journey, she guides others through trauma recovery, inspiring them on their paths to healing, growth, and transformation. Her approach emphasizes a deep understanding and mastery of self through systemic belief work, resilience, recovery, and empowering women to reclaim their voice and strength. Marisa is dedicated to supporting women globally, with a heartfelt focus on Bosnia and the Balkan region, and will be a wonderful addition to the association in many capacities. We are excited to welcome her to the community! To connect directly with Marisa you can contact her at hello@marisahannewyk.com #5MFBH #bosniaandherzegovina #france #associations #volunteers #women #womenhealing #supportingothers #volunteering #womenempowerment

The Future Has Begun The Novum of Cultural Diplomacy Only 21 cities in the world can boast of having hosted the Winter Olympic Games, and 40 countries had their own pavilion at the first World's Fair, Expo 1900. Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina are part of both of these statistics. A return to the past through references that rebrand the perception of our region may not mean much for local inspiration. Still, respect on a global level in the circles of diplomatic, sports, and cultural communities is indelible. Proof of this is the successful event held during the Olympics in Paris, in the iconic 7th district in the first floating gallery in the world, Fluctuart. Surrounded by Olympic venues for archery and fencing, and as a platform for the opening ceremony and triathlon competition, this location was the heartbeat of the French capital this summer. Amid a busy schedule with over 50 international Olympic houses, diplomatic receptions, and cultural programs, the BH NEXT GEN Showcase, with the message “Heritage, Relevance & Tenacity,” succeeded in gathering representatives of diplomatic missions, Olympic committees, and the local Bosnian community living in France. The exhibition was presented in three modules: Olympic Legacy, Current Projects, and Future Concepts, and showcased the historical and current touchpoints between Sarajevo and Paris, as well as between France and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Special attention was drawn to the initiative for the digitalization of the Olympic Archive and the innovative use of damaged Olympic infrastructure for new programming. The exhibition was opened by the Minister of Culture and Sports of the Sarajevo Canton, Kenan Magoda, Director of City Museums Senka Ibrisimbegovic, and special guest Markus Osterwalder. “It is very important to make the documentation of the Olympic Games accessible, which would be a precedent for all other countries where the Olympics were held. The goal is to preserve your heritage and make it available to everyone. Before the opening of the exhibition, the short documentary film #Crossroads by #Métier, featuring Markus Osterwalder, Secretary General of the International Society of Olympic Historians (ISOH), was premiered at the Swiss Embassy Garden just a 15-minute walk through the park complex of Les Invalides. Osterwalder was the first official guest to commemorate the 40th anniversary in Sarajevo, where the film was shot. The event and initiative by the Office for Creative Export and the Olympic Museum were financially supported by the Ministry of Culture and Sports of the Sarajevo Canton, with project partners including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, #theFrenchEmbassy in Sarajevo, the #SwissEmbassy in Sarajevo, the #EmbassyofBosniaandHerzegovina in France, the association 5 Million Friends of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the #OlympicCommittee of Bosnia and Herzegovina, #Intea, #iPIXEL, and #SarajevoInternationalAirport. Text by Mersel Bujak

🇧🇦 𝗪𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝘁𝗼 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺! 🌎 We’re looking for passionate volunteers to help us expand our impact across the globe! If you’re ready to make a difference, we have several exciting roles available: 1️⃣ LinkedIn Editors for Worldwide Pages (For those living in Germany, Austria, Australia, or the UK who speak Bosnian and the local language) Help manage our LinkedIn branches by sharing 2-3 posts per month on local topics, such as success stories about Bosnians or cooperation between Bosnia and your country. 2️⃣ Lead for Membership/Donation Activity Help drive membership sign-ups and donations by developing strategies and tracking campaign success. 3️⃣ Social Media Editor Manage content for both our Facebook and Instagram pages, creating engaging posts and growing our online community. Interested in joining our team? Reach out to us at info@5mfbh.com to learn more! #VolunteersNeeded #JoinOurTeam #MakeADifference #BosniaAndHerzegovina #GlobalCommunity #5MFBH #VolunteerOpportunities #SocialImpact #LinkedInEditors #MembershipGrowth #DonationDrive #SocialMediaEditor

𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐔𝐌 𝐃𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐎𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐒 𝟕𝐞̀. On Saturday, September 14, 2024, 5 Million Friends of Bosnia and Herzegovina proudly participated in the Associations Forum organized by the Paris 7 Town Hall. With over 50 associations in attendance, the forum showcased a variety of sporting, cultural, familial, and charitable activities. The highlight of the day was the opportunity to connect with the residents of Paris 7 and fellow associations. Our stand attracted attention from journalists, diplomats, and notably, French nationals who have been involved in projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This engagement revealed a strong potential for them to become supporters of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and to join our 5MFBH community. Towards the end of the event, we had the distinct honor of welcoming Mrs. Rachida Dati Minister of Culture and Mayor of the 7th arrondissement, along with her deputy, Mrs. Josiane Gaude and Mr. Bruno Delgado D'Imperio. Our President, Edo SABANAGIC, had the opportunity to discuss the important work of our association and its ongoing efforts. We also had a particularly fruitful meeting with the Jeune Européenne France association, where we agreed to collaborate, focusing on promoting European ideals among the youth of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The event strengthened our community ties and opened new doors for collaboration, furthering our mission to foster global friendships with Bosnia and Herzegovina. #5mfbh #association #paris7 #bosnieherzegovine #france #networking #lobyng

Ajvar is a favorite homemade winter food made from peppers and eggplants. It is eaten on its own, with grilled meat, or on bread. Everyone has their recipe for ajvar, and we bring you one of the best recipes for Nana's ajvar. If you are wondering how to make a delicious homemade ajvar and how long ajvar is cooked, keep reading. On average, it takes about eight hours of active work to cook ajvar. Time easily goes to roasting and cooking vegetables, which are abundant in large quantities. This recipe will give you about 5 pounds of homemade ajvar. If you like hot ajvar, you can add hot peppers or pepperoni. Ingredients: 5 kg of red horn pepper 2.5 kg eggplant 2 cloves of garlic 5 l of water 200 l vinegar 800 l vegetable oil 1 tablespoon salt A few hot peppers as desired. Preparation 1. Clean the peppers from seeds and stalks, peel the eggplants, and cut them lengthwise into quarters. Peel the garlic and clean it. 2. Heat five liters of water with vinegar and a tablespoon of salt in a large saucepan. When the water boils, boil the peppers for 5-10 minutes until they soften. 3. Once you remove the cooked peppers from the water, cook the sliced eggplants in the same water until they soften. 4. Grind the eggplants, peppers, garlic, and pepperoni in a meat grinder on which you have set the plates with the smallest openings. 5. Heat 800 ml of oil in a deep pan and fry the resulting mixture of garlic, peppers, eggplant, and hot peppers. Fry the mixture for about half an hour, stirring. 6. Reduce the heat and cook the ajvar for about two hours. Ajvar is ready when you have reached the desired density. 7. Store the cooked ajvar in sterilized glass jars and leave it overnight to cool. You can sterilize the jars in the oven preheated to 80 °C for about 10 minutes. Enjoy your meal! 😊 Source: Charity Foundation La Terra Nostra #fallseason #ajvar #tradition #bosniaandherzegovina #5MFBH

Adnan Mujanović originally from Tuzla, has emerged as a prominent figure in medicine, garnering attention for his clinical acumen and extensive research contributions. His doctoral thesis, a testament to his dedication to advancing medical science, delves into critical areas that have the potential to impact patient care and the broader medical community significantly. His doctoral thesis on "Microvascular Perfusion Abnormalities in Acute Ischemic Stroke" delves into the complex dynamics of microvascular perfusion, offering new insights into how these abnormalities can impact the onset, progression, and treatment of acute ischemic strokes. By exploring the nuances of microvascular dysfunction, Dr. Mujanovic's research opens up new possibilities for improving patient outcomes in this critical area of medicine. Dr. Mujanovic investigates the mechanisms that lead to impaired blood flow at the microvascular level, including endothelial dysfunction, microthrombi formation, and impaired autoregulation. By examining these factors, he sheds light on how they can amplify the ischemic cascade, worsening tissue damage and influencing the clinical outcome. His ongoing work has the potential to revolutionize stroke care by incorporating microvascular considerations into standard treatment paradigms. By illuminating the complex interplay between microvascular dysfunction and stroke pathology, he has opened new avenues for understanding and treating this devastating condition. His work not only enhances our knowledge of stroke mechanisms but also paves the way for more effective interventions, offering hope for improved outcomes for stroke patients worldwide. As he continues to pursue excellence in both research and clinical practice, Dr. Mujanovic exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated physician and scholar, committed to making a lasting impact on the world of medicine. Congratulations on pushing boundaries, creating innovative ways to treat patients, and setting high standards! Text by Jasmine Avdagić Carpenter #medicine #research #doctoralthesis #Tuzla #bosniaandherzegovina #5MFBH

NO DREAM IS TOO FAR OUT OF REACH✨🥈 In yesterday's swimming competition in the #ParaolympicGames held in Paris, one dream was forged through sweat, determination, and courage, and a new star has emerged—one that reminds us all of the power of resilience. At 13 years old, Bosnian swimmer #IsmailBarlov captured the world’s attention as he surged through the water, claiming a silver medal in the 50m SB2 breaststroke race. Ismail’s journey to the podium was no ordinary one. Born with a physical disability that might have discouraged others, he refused to be defined by limitations. For Ismail, the pool became a sanctuary, a place where he discovered not only the strength of his body but the boundless power of his spirit. Yesterday, Ismail’s strokes weren’t just a testament to his athleticism—they were a manifestation of his belief that any dream, however big or small, is within reach. It was his unshakable mental fortitude, combined with his relentless desire to achieve greatness, that propelled him through the water with unmatched determination. As he touched the wall and looked up at the scoreboard, the silver medal gleaming next to his name, it wasn’t just a victory for him. It was a victory for every individual who has ever been told their dreams were too far, their goals unattainable. Ismail’s success speaks to the deeper truth that disabilities do not limit your abilities. They challenge you to rise above, to embrace the strength within, and to defy expectations. Thank you Ismail for making your country, people, and trainers proud. Your achievement resonates far beyond the pool, showing us that greatness is born from the heart. You haven't only won a medal, but you won the admiration and respect of all who believe in the power of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. Text by Jasmine Avdagić Carpenter #IsmailBarlov #humanspirit #swimming #paraolympics #Paris24 #bosniaandherzegovina #5MFBH

The Sarajevo Film Festival: A Thirty-Year Journey of Resilience, Cinema, and Unity The Sarajevo Film Festival (SFF) is not just an event; it’s a symbol of endurance, creativity, and hope. As it has just celebrated its 30th anniversary, the festival's journey from its origins during the Bosnian War to its current status as a leading cultural event in Southeast Europe is a story of how cinema can heal, connect, and inspire. The Sarajevo Film Festival was born amid one of the most harrowing periods in recent European history. During the Bosnian War, Sarajevo was under siege, and amidst the bombings, sniper fire, and constant fear, a group of filmmakers and cultural activists decided to create a space for artistic expression and human connection. In October 1995, just before the war's end, the first edition of the Sarajevo Film Festival was held. In those early days, the festival was an act of defiance—a statement that art and culture could survive even in the darkest times. The festival began with a modest program, screening films in makeshift venues, often without electricity. But the impact was profound. For the people of Sarajevo, the festival offered a brief escape from the horrors of war and a reminder of the world beyond the city’s besieged borders. From its inception, the Sarajevo Film Festival has been more than just a celebration of cinema; it has been a platform for dialogue and reconciliation. The festival quickly became known for its commitment to bridging divides, particularly in a region scarred by ethnic and political conflicts. Over the years, the festival has continued to champion these values. The “Dealing with the Past” program, launched in the early 2000s, is a prime example. This section of the festival features films that explore the lingering issues from the Yugoslav wars, encouraging conversations about history, memory, and the ongoing process of reconciliation. Today, the festival is recognized as one of the most important film festivals in Europe. It has played a significant role in promoting the careers of countless filmmakers, many of whom first presented their work at Sarajevo. The festival’s various programs, including the Talents Sarajevo initiative, continue to nurture emerging voices in cinema, providing training, mentorship, and support to the next generation of filmmakers. As it marks its 30th anniversary, the Sarajevo Film Festival stands as a testament to the power of cinema to transcend borders and unite people. Reflecting on the festival’s journey, director Jovan Marjanović sums it up best: "Our central belief, however idealistic it may sound, is that peace must prevail. We must work toward that goal and focus on what unites us, despite our differences. That’s where cinema comes in—it helps us reflect and see the humanity in those around us." Text by Jasmine Avdagić Carpenter #SarajevoFilmFestival #culture #film #BosniaandHerzegovina #5MFBH

𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬, I hope this message finds you well. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support of the Association of 5 Million Friends of Bosnia and Herzegovina (5MFBH). Your commitment and enthusiasm have been instrumental in our journey to promote the European Union and Bosnia and Herzegovina as integral parts of it. Thanks to supporters like you, we’ve 𝐚𝐥𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝟑𝟓,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 across LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Your engagement has helped us reach and inspire countless individuals, amplifying our impact far and wide. As we pursue new milestones, we invite everyone who appreciates our dedication to highlighting the best of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the BH diaspora to support our association with an 𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐨𝐟 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟐𝟎 𝐄𝐔𝐑. For those who have not yet recognized the importance of our work, we remain patient, as our mission is a long-term, multi-decade endeavor. Your support is vital in providing financial assistance to our committed student volunteers, enabling them to continue their master's and doctoral studies while promoting our shared heritage through the 5MFBH association. Your support truly makes a difference, and we would be incredibly grateful if you could share this opportunity with your network. As a non-profit, non-religious, and non-ethnic organization, together, we can make a significant impact. After all, it takes a village to create change! 𝐓𝐨 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐚 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐞𝐛𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞 ⤵️ www.5mfbh.com (𝐁𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐚 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫) Thank you once again for being an essential part of our community. Warm regards, Edo SABANAGIC On behalf of: Association of 5 Million Friends of Bosnia and Herzegovina - 5MFBH 4, rue Amélie 75007 Paris, France RNA n° W751263754 FR76 3000 4029 3300 0103 4095 660 BIC (Bank Identification Code) : BNPAFRPPXXX 5 MILLIONS FRIENDS OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA BNP PARIBAS PARIS ARC DE TRIOMPHE (02933) www.5mfbh.com