London, UK – 10 May 2026
Bosnia and Herzegovina Community Advice Centre (BHCAC) was pleased to host a special poetry evening on 9 May 2026 at its premises in Willesden Green, London, bringing together members of the community for an evening dedicated to literature, culture and shared identity.
The event was organised to honour Semira and Meho Jakupović, recipients of the KNS (Kultura Nova Svjetlost) Golden Plaque for Poetry 2025, in recognition of their continued contribution to poetry and cultural life within the British Bosnian community.
The programme featured poetry readings by the award recipients, together with contributions from Zaim Pašić, Chair of BHCAC, and Chief Imam Sedin ef. Šahman, whose interpretations added depth and reflection to the evening. A notable highlight was the presentation of poems from the collection Bosnoljublje, which includes works by three members of the Jakupović family, reflecting intergenerational literary expression.
The evening was further enriched by the contribution of Sandra Saldanha, a poet and member of BHCAC, whose participation reflected the Centre’s inclusive spirit and its openness to diverse voices within the shared community space.
Throughout the programme, themes of belonging, identity, memory, peace and human connection resonated strongly with those in attendance, reaffirming the role of poetry as a powerful medium for dialogue and collective reflection.
The event concluded with expressions of appreciation on behalf of BHCAC, recognising all contributors for their participation and continued engagement in community cultural life. Informal conversation continued in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
BHCAC remains proud to provide a space where cultural activity can flourish and where members of the British Bosnian community and the wider Brent community come together to share creativity, experiences and dialogue. Events such as this reflect BHCAC’s ongoing commitment to cultural heritage, community cohesion and mutual understanding.
For general enquiries: info@bhcac.org.uk
BBYL One Year Programme Launched
BHCAC launches a year‑long, youth‑led programme promoting Bosnian culture, wellbeing, and leadership
The BBYL One Year Programme is a youth‑led initiative designed to strengthen engagement with Bosnian culture and heritage while supporting wellbeing, leadership, volunteering, and community connection. Shaped by young people’s voices and community needs, the programme offers a structured year of cultural, educational, social, and wellbeing‑focused activities.
Programme highlights include:
- Monthly Bosnian folklore sessions
- A six‑session history, culture, and heritage series
- Outdoor and summer wellbeing activities
- Youth volunteering and leadership opportunities
- Community and social engagement events
Young people are at the centre of the programme’s delivery, with BBYL members actively involved as participants, volunteers, organisers, and programme leads, building confidence, responsibility, and long‑term community connection.
Acknowledgments
BHCAC recognises the contributions of those who supported a successful programme launch:
- Anela Majdanac, Communications, BBYL Action Group
- Amar Duratović, Secretary, BBYL Action Group
- All BBYL members who attended, whose engagement contributed to a strong and meaningful launch event
Looking Ahead
The BBYL One Year Programme reflects a shared commitment to helping young people learn, connect, and celebrate Bosnian heritage while developing leadership skills and a strong sense of belonging within the community.
BHCAC is proud to support BBYL as the programme enters its delivery phase and looks forward to its positive impact on young people and the wider community.
For general enquiries: info@bhcac.org.uk
Celebrating Women, Heritage, and Community
BHCAC Marks 29 Years of International Women’s Day Celebrations
London, UK — 10 March 2026
The Bosnia and Herzegovina Community Advice Centre (BHCAC) proudly welcomed community members, civic leaders, partner organisations, and supporters to its 29th Annual International Women’s Day Celebration, held on Saturday, 7 March 2026, at the Performance Hall of Willesden Green Library. The event brought together 49 attendees from across Brent’s diverse communities for a warm, vibrant, and uplifting evening honouring women’s achievements, celebrating Bosnian cultural heritage, and recognising nearly three decades of BHCAC’s contribution to local community life. Guided by this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” the celebration highlighted how generosity, compassion, and women’s leadership strengthen families, inspire young people, and help build thriving, inclusive communities.
Celebrating the Power of Giving
Master of Ceremonies Naya Medjedović opened the programme with a powerful reflection on the transformative impact of generosity, noting:
“When we give—our time, our kindness, our skills, our solidarity—we do not lose. We expand possibilities. And when we give to women, we gain stronger families, stronger communities, and a brighter, more hopeful future for everyone.”
Representatives from Brent Hubs, Sufra NW London, and the Saafi Organisation were also in attendance, underscoring the strength of partnership and the shared commitment to community development. The event was supported in part by Brent Council’s Celebrating Diversity 2026 Fund.
Honouring Culture, Heritage, and Nearly Three Decades of Leadership
BHCAC Chair Zaim Pašić formally opened the evening with a tribute to the organisation’s long-standing legacy, remarking: “Tonight we celebrate 29 years of women leading, strengthening, and inspiring our community.”
Pašić then performed the beloved Bosnian sevdalinka “Emina,” creating a powerful moment of shared cultural pride and reconnecting guests with the rich Bosnian heritage that continues to inspire communities in Brent and across the UK.
Leadership, Empowerment, and Artistic Expression
The evening featured inspiring contributions from local leaders and artists who highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment, solidarity, and cultural identity.
- Cllr. Mili Patel, Deputy Leader of Brent Council, commended BHCAC’s enduring role in the community, noting:
“BHCAC stands as a remarkable example of women’s leadership, resilience, and collective strength. What you have built is a powerful legacy of compassion, dignity, and mutual support that continues to inspire us.” - Cllr. Promise Knight, Cabinet Member for Customer Experience, Resident Support and Culture, spoke about Brent Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening community networks and creating opportunities that empower women across the borough.
Guests were also deeply moved by two powerful spoken‑word performances:
- Sandra Saldanha – “Strange Creature”
- Semira Jakupović – “Only a Woman Can Do That”
Their poetry explored profound themes of migration, identity, resilience, and the intergenerational strength carried by women—echoing the spirit of the evening and the values at the heart of BHCAC’s work.
BHCAC Women’s Leadership Awards 2026
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the BHCAC Women’s Leadership Awards 2026, recognising women whose compassion, service, and leadership have made an enduring impact on both the Bosnian community and the wider Brent population.
Awards were presented by Cllr. Mili Patel and BHCAC Chair Zaim Pašić.
2026 Award Recipients
- Ramiza Heder – honoured for her pioneering role as one of BHCAC’s first trustees and for her lasting contribution to the Bosnian community.
- Parinoush Nasehi Taheri – recognised for her compassionate leadership and dedicated support for individuals injured during the Bosnian War.
- Chanita Lawrence – celebrated for outstanding leadership and service to the Brent community.
- Cllr. Mili Patel – acknowledged for exceptional leadership and her service to the Brent community.
In accepting the award, Cllr. Patel remarked: “I’m deeply proud and honoured by the nomination for BHCAC’s Women’s Leadership Award. I accept it with deep gratitude and humility.”
Community Iftar: A Celebration of Togetherness
Coinciding with Ramadan, the evening concluded with a warm and heartfelt community Iftar that embodied unity, reflection, and a deep sense of shared belonging. Chief Imam Sedin ef. Šahman (Islamic Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the UK) delivered the ezan—the call to break the fast—and led a prayer for unity, gratitude, and peace, creating a powerful moment of spiritual connection.
Children received Eid gift bags, continuing the cherished cultural tradition of generosity and inclusion. Guests also enjoyed a photographic retrospective showcasing BHCAC’s International Women’s Day celebrations over the years.
In another beloved tradition, every woman was presented with a beautifully wrapped floral gift by trustees Meho Jakupović and Sadik Eminić, honouring women’s enduring contributions to family and community life.
The evening drew to a close with group photographs capturing shared pride, joy, and the strong community spirit that defined the gathering.
Gratitude to Volunteers and Supporters
BHCAC extends its heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers and supporters whose dedication, energy, and generosity made the celebration possible—truly embodying the spirit of “Give to Gain.”
Special thanks to:
- Dževad Dizdarević – pre‑event support and logistics
- Naya Medjedović – Master of Ceremonies
- Amar Duratović – audio‑visual and technical support
- Elma Pašić Agović – guest reception and registration
- BHCAC members and British Bosnian Youth London (BBYL) Group – for their enthusiastic support throughout
Their collective efforts ensured a warm, welcoming, and seamlessly coordinated event for all attendees.
For general enquiries:
info@bhcac.org.uk