Young Montenegrin artist, painter, and illustrator Hajdana Kostić has received a prestigious European recognition as one of the 40 young leaders within the organization “Friends of Europe.” This organization has been bringing together talented individuals from various fields for over a decade, aiming to promote European values.
“Receiving such a European recognition is an honor and a pleasure, especially since I often feel that not many people know about my work, so this is a wonderful encouragement,” said Hajdana.
Representing Montenegro in the “Friends of Europe” organization will provide Hajdana with the opportunity to exchange experiences with prominent individuals from various spheres of society. “I am looking forward to meeting different inspirational people. There will be a girl who won a Pulitzer Prize and a chef who has a Michelin star, so there is certainly so much to learn from them, and that’s what inspires me the most.”
When asked what is key for a young woman who wants to succeed, Hajdana emphasizes the importance of persistence and creativity: “The path of an artist is uncertain and very difficult, especially in the Balkans. So, you need to have a steel will and strive with all your might to make what you do succeed.”
To young women, Hajdana advises them to live freely and not let others dictate how they should live: “Don’t adopt other people’s ways of thinking, but fight for your life, a life that’s entirely your own, by your own rules.”
Minister of European Affairs Maida Gorčević points out that Hajdana is an example of how a woman can succeed with her talent and work and become recognized beyond the borders of Montenegro. “Hajdana, through her work, inspires others to believe in themselves and their possibilities. Her dedication is not only a path to personal success but also a strong contribution to promoting Montenegro,” concludes Gorčević.
Hajdana’s nomination within the “Friends of Europe” organization is proof that talented individuals from Montenegro can achieve international success. Her story inspires young women to be brave, persistent, and to follow their own path without compromise.
This is one of four stories in the Ministry of European Affairs’ campaign for International Women’s Day, created through the EU4ME project, with financial support from the European Union.
Author: Anđelika Durutović