MILICA AND BRANKA CROWNED AS THE MOST INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN OF BANJA LUKA

Among 58 nominees who have left an indelible mark with their work, ideas, and perseverance, Milica Jovičić and Branka Majstorović have been awarded the title of "Most Inspirational Women of Banja Luka" this year. The winners were chosen by the votes of the nominated candidates themselves.

PHOTO: Aleksandar Čavić

The prestigious title was awarded last night at a ceremony in Banski Dvor, marking the culmination of the "For Women’s Lives" campaign, organized for the fourth consecutive year by the City of Banja Luka in collaboration with civic organizations.

Milica Jovičić expressed her delight in the existence of such an initiative, particularly one that recognizes the most inspiring women in entrepreneurship.

"I had the honor of being nominated, and it is wonderful to be among women who drive change. In Banja Luka, 58 women were nominated, and they are the ones making a difference in society and the city, serving as role models for other women and young people," she stated.

Banja Luka's mayor, Draško Stanivuković, emphasized that in Banja Luka, every day and every month of the year belongs to women.

"March is a time when we especially celebrate the strength, courage, and success of women, and tonight we have chosen the most inspiring among them in the field of entrepreneurship. Congratulations to Milica and Branka on their prestigious titles and to all the nominated ladies. A special thanks to my associate Milada Šukalo for her excellent organization and dedication to empowering women. This evening is dedicated to you," said the mayor.

He stressed that selecting the best among them is not about mere recognition but a motivation for all other women who are just starting their business journeys.

"I am proud of these women who, besides managing challenging jobs and running businesses, big or small, have shared their life stories, some of which were not easy. They serve as an encouragement for other women in Banja Luka to take the leap and dare to pursue their dreams. This campaign is a stimulus for all women, and I am proud that Banja Luka is a city of strong, brave, and determined women," the mayor concluded.

Project manager of the city and president of the Organizing Committee of the "For Women’s Lives" campaign, Milada Šukalo, stated that since Draško Stanivuković became mayor, new boundaries have been pushed in terms of family care initiatives and activities.

"This campaign was born out of our desire and initiative not to mark International Women’s Day merely by handing out flowers but to remember it as a significant date in the history of human and women’s rights," said Šukalo.

She highlighted that throughout this month, the city has sponsored numerous activities, including various panels, craft fairs, entrepreneurship lectures, and the promotion of the most successful women among us.

"When designing this campaign, we carefully included all marginalized groups of women in our society. Our logo and the entire campaign are the work of women who participated in occupational therapy at the Safe House. Our partners include the ‘United Women’ Foundation and other organizations dedicated to human rights," said Šukalo, adding that the gala evening was the result of a month-long effort to promote women who are hardworking, exemplary, and yet not sufficiently visible in society.

Amid the highest recorded cases of violence against women, she pointed out that this issue is also being addressed, with powerful messages set to appear on the streets of Banja Luka in the coming days, including a unique exhibition by artist Nina Babić.

On behalf of the ‘United Women’ Foundation, Gorica Ivić stated that the foundation has partnered with the city throughout March as part of the "For Women’s Lives" campaign.

"Through various aspects of life and work, we aim to highlight the importance of the rights women have today while also emphasizing the need to maintain these rights and continue fighting for those that are still lacking," said Ivić.

She added that it is essential to celebrate women’s achievements, not only for those who have had the courage to break boundaries but also for all the young girls who are part of this society.

The special guest at last night’s ceremony in Banski Dvor was Ana Dornik, a woman who has transformed her experience of battling illness and self-care into a powerful message for other women in similar situations. The evening’s entertainment featured a performance by Marko Luis.

Given the large number of nominations, this year’s awards were given to both women who have succeeded as independent entrepreneurs and those leading major companies.