The alumni of the Foundation are living proof that support and community can grow into a movement of people who change society — quiet leaders, successful professionals, and philanthropists who never forget where they started. One of them is Tesnim Karišik Spahić, whose story shows how far one can go through effort, perseverance, and the values the Foundation instills in its scholarship recipients.
- When and how did your love for photography develop?
My love for photography began in childhood — through curiosity, observation, and a natural sense for aesthetics and composition. I was always the child who noticed details and “perfect imperfections” around me, storing beauty in an inner visual memory. Photography came naturally. It was love at first sight, and my first camera in 2014 even brought me tears of joy.
Through the lens, I found a way to preserve emotion, document truth, celebrate love, and tell people’s stories in ways they might not even see themselves. For me, photography is a blend of art, empathy, storytelling, authenticity, and social responsibility.
- Your art and activism are deeply intertwined. How did your creativity become a tool for social change?
Through my work, I try to connect creativity with topics I consider essential for our society — gender equality, youth empowerment, and raising awareness about issues that concern us all. That is why creativity is my primary tool for initiating dialogue and inspiring change.
My installations “Why Do Our Roses Wither”, dedicated to the victims of femicide, as well as the public photo project “Wake Up” on traffic safety, showed how powerfully visual storytelling can reach people and provoke reactions.
- How did your latest exhibition, “They Said – I Did” go, and what did it mean to you?
I recently opened my third solo exhibition titled “They Said – I Did” at Europe House Sarajevo, with the support of the European Union and the Council of Europe, as part of the project “Block the Hatred, Share the Love 2.0.” The exhibition is a portrait story of 17 incredible women from all over Bosnia and Herzegovina: geologists, doctors, entrepreneurs, athletes, activists, artists, and more. These are women who push boundaries and live beyond others’ expectations. The opening atmosphere was wonderful, so many good and inspiring people in one place. Even high schools later visited the exhibition as part of organised group tours.
For me, the process was intense and emotional: from photographing to concept development, organisation, event management, and working with each of these women. It was an exhibition that transformed me as well, proving that every story deserves to be told.
- What message would you give to young scholarship recipients and anyone wishing to follow their own path?
Be persistent. Work on yourself. Do not give up, even when it is hardest. Every act of volunteering, every good intention, and every effort you invest with sincerity will return to you many times over. Nurture curiosity, ask questions, and build yourself. Surround yourself with good people. Learn from every experience. The most important thing is to believe in yourself and value yourself. That is where every great story begins.
Interview by: Aida Suljić
