Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once said: „You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him“, reminding us of the fundamental reflection on altruism as a crucial part of human nature. The volunteer engagement of Hastor Foundation scholarship holders is a key aspect, representing the realization of our core mission – the advancement of society through various spheres of action. Within the Hastor Foundation, volunteerism conceptually extends beyond individual contributions, reflecting a deeply rooted spirit of solidarity and unity. In line with these values, the main goal of the Scholar of the Month section is to encourage individuals whose initiatives affirm the fundamental principles of the Hastor Foundation. Dženana’s outstanding contribution and dedication to volunteer activities are the subjects of this months Scholar of the Month section, and below, we bring you hers inspirational story.
Dženana Zulum is from Bugojno and has been a scholarship holder of the Hastor Foundation for a solid decade. She is in the final year of her second cycle of studies at the Faculty of Political Sciences, University of Sarajevo, specializing in Communication/Journalism – Public Relations and Public Affairs.
Her dedication to her work is evidenced by a strong commitment to philanthropy, with her primary area of interest expressed through the prism of communication. As Dženana notes, all of this stems from an awareness of the importance of effective communication skills, best implemented within the framework of social sciences. Throughout her threeyear studies, Dženana has accumulated rich experience in various media activities. The management of acquired knowledg and skills has guided her towards the public relations sector, and her passion has found its reflection through activities within the Hastor Foundation.
The initial instance of her volunteer engagement was in the social media maintenance team, where she not only tried herself but largely found her place.
Given that I have been volunteering within the Hastor Foundation for a decade, I sought to seize the opportunity for professional development, and over these years, I have truly become attached to it. I witness its significance and the importance of its actions for the entire Bosnian-Herzegovinian society on a daily basis, something no one can remain immune to. From that moment, with my strength and dedicated heart, I am committed to volunteering in the Hastor Foundation, and that is truly what I am most proud of.
In addition to the social media maintenance team, the Hastor Foundation provided Dženana with the opportunity to expand her talents and passion for communication through hosting a podcast. This initiative not only contributes to knowledge dissemination but also allows Dženana to share her skills with the community. In the role of the host of the Hastor Foundation Podcast, Dženana has truly carved out a special place and found a „part of herself“.
This is invaluable professional development! We have a podcast that is at a high level technically, visually, and in content. In addition to all that, we use it for the best possible purposes – promoting young and successful individuals, as well as genuine social values. It is precisely these values and their promotion that make me, through this project, feel socially useful, not just as a host. Together with the team behind the camera and the guest sitting across from me, we contribute to the promotion of quality people, significant achievements, and inspiring stories. All of this proves that it is possible in Bosnia and Herzegovina. We abound with such extremely quality potentials, and they deserve to be heard because it is their voices that will motivate those who listen.
Prepared by: Semina Sadiković
