The iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) arched gracefully over the emerald waters of the Neretva River, a testament to centuries of history and resilience. Little did I know that this breathtaking backdrop would be the stage for an unforgettable week of cultural exchange and media exploration.

I was one of eleven eager participants in the "Youth Voice" project, brought together by the amazing team from i-platform. As we gathered for our first day, the air buzzed with excitement and a touch of nervousness. We came from different corners of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Switzerland, each carrying our own unique stories and perspectives.

Our journey began with introductions, but not the boring kind you might expect. Instead, we were given the chance to showcase our cultures in creative ways. Alisa from Bihać brought traditional Bosnian coffee and taught us the art of proper preparation. This personal touch immediately broke the ice, transforming us from strangers into friends.

As we settled into our roles as budding journalists and content creators, we collectively brainstormed rules for the week ahead. The energy in the room was electric as ideas flew back and forth. In the end, we distilled our shared values into three powerful mantras: "Respect. Have fun. Stay active." These words would become our guiding stars throughout the project.

With our foundation set, we dove headfirst into a whirlwind of activities. The organizers presented us with nine challenging tasks, each designed to push our creative boundaries and hone our media skills. From conducting street interviews in the Old Town to crafting compelling web articles about Mostar's hidden gems, every day brought new adventures and learning opportunities.

As I write this, we're only at the beginning of our journey, but I can already feel the transformative power of this experience. The cobblestone streets of Mostar have become our classroom, its diverse communities our subjects, and its rich history our inspiration.

Looking ahead, I can't help but feel a thrill of anticipation. We'll be exploring the art of audio and video production, learning to capture the essence of this magical city through sight and sound. There's talk of visiting local media outlets, gaining insider knowledge from seasoned professionals. And of course, we'll be forging connections that transcend borders, planting the seeds for future collaborations and friendships.

As the sun sets over the Neretva, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I'm filled with gratitude for this opportunity. "Youth Voice: Herzegovina Calling!" is more than just a project title – it's a call to action, a chance for us to amplify the voices of young people and share the beauty of Mostar you.

Stay tuned, because the story is just beginning, and we have so much to tell!

Eleonora Cholak

This project is supported by Movetia - National Agency for Youth Exchange and Mobility from Switzerland.