BANJA LUKA NATIVE NAMED BEST YOUNG LEADER IN THE WORLD

Banja Luka native Aleksa Dabić (21) has been named the Best Young Leader in the World at an international youth leadership competition held in Dubai, where he represented the Republic of Srpska and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Dabić, a second-year student at the Faculty of Political Sciences in Banja Luka, shared with Nezavisne novine that he participated in the renowned "Best Diplomats Conference", held under the patronage of the United Nations. This prestigious event gathers young leaders under the age of 35 for simulations of global negotiations and diplomacy.

"I had the honor and opportunity to represent the Republic of Srpska and Bosnia and Herzegovina at the world's largest platform for developing young leaders," Dabić said. "Out of more than 5,000 applicants, I was selected to take part and advocate for the interests of my country through direct diplomatic work, negotiations, and decision-making."

The competition involved rigorous training sessions aimed at narrowing the pool of participants to only the most effective and skilled. Dabić explained that the event lasted three to four days, with one day dedicated solely to the competitive segment.

"Before the competition day, we were divided into self-selected teams that shared the same vision. Our team finished second in the world in defending our positions through proposed amendments," Dabić noted.

On the final day, awards were handed out in seven categories—only one of which included four individual honors. Dabić received the highest individual recognition: Best Young Leader in the World.

Dabić has been active in the youth sector for the past three to four years, gaining valuable experience and leading various organizations. "I’ve since moved on to independent projects. In March, I attended the World Climate Summit in Brazil, which helped strengthen my credentials for the Dubai competition," he said.

The award has been met with pride and excitement by his family, friends, and university professors who supported his journey.

Dabić also revealed plans for the near future: he has been selected as one of the Balkan Youth Leaders in a program held in the United States. "It’s a six-week program across Central America, focused on a theme they assign. I return to Banja Luka briefly in October, then head to Kenya to help organize the World Conference for Presidents, aiming to include African nations in the initiative."

This outstanding young leader from Banja Luka continues to set an example on the global stage, proving that dedication, vision, and action can lead to worldwide recognition.