Natrag Sofija Blagojević: A young hero championing inclusion in Serbian schools

Belgrade 9 January 2025
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Sofija Blagojević: A young hero championing inclusion in Serbian schools

At just 17 years old, Sofija Blagojević has emerged as an unexpected hero in the eyes of teachers and other professionals working with children. Her dedication to fostering inclusion and fighting discrimination has not only earned her recognition but also inspired those around her. "I was deeply honoured to see my name listed among many remarkable women in this country," Sofija reflects. "Being recognised in this way brightened my day and encouraged me to view myself as someone who inspires others and makes a difference in society."

While her peers enjoyed a carefree summer, Sofija chose a different path. Driven by a passion for equality, she spent her break learning to train educators to promote understanding and reduce prejudice as part of the joint efforts of the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality in Serbia and the action “Combating discrimination and promoting diversity in Serbia”, implemented within the joint European Union/Council of Europe programme "Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Turkiye". "I was motivated by a strong desire to open the eyes of teachers and staff to new teaching methods that help children and youth grasp the impact of violence and discrimination on society," she explains. "I want to ignite a spark in others about how they might be contributing to discrimination and how they can reduce it." Her commitment to equality, especially for women and minority groups, fuels her efforts to create a more inclusive world.

In her role as a peer educator, Sofija sees herself as a relatable example for her classmates, someone who can effectively communicate the importance of acceptance and equality. "I think my peers are more likely to embrace awareness-raising efforts when they come from someone 'like them,'" she says. Her ability to connect with other young people makes her a powerful advocate for change within her school community.

For those unsure of how to begin their own journey in promoting inclusion, Sofija offers a message of hope and perseverance. "Never give up," she advises. "As clichéd as it sounds, hope is essential. We can make a change through those willing to take action and fight discrimination,” she said adding that young people should start joining the initiatives which are ready to listen to them and thus ensure their voice is heard.

Sofija’s story is a powerful reminder that young people have the potential to drive significant social change. Her efforts are shaping a more inclusive environment in schools, paving the way for a future where everyone, regardless of their background, feels accepted and valued.

Horizontal Facility III

The joint European Union and Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye” (Horizontal Facility III) is a co-operation initiative, running from 2023 until 2026.

The programme covers actions in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Türkiye. It enables the Beneficiaries to meet their reform agendas in the fields of human rights, rule of law and democracy and to comply with European standards, which is also a priority for the EU enlargement process.

The third phase of the programme is worth €41 million (85% funded by the European Union, 15% by the Council of Europe).

* Ova oznaka ne prejudicira stavove o statusu i ista je u skladu s Rezolucijom Vijeća sigurnosti UN-a 1244 i Mišljenjem Međunarodnog suda pravde o Deklaraciji o neovisnosti Kosova.