Personal development, self-confidence and meaningful social connections are important steps towards greater independence and inclusion. For Aida, a participant in the EMPOWERED project, these opportunities have become part of her journey towards personal growth and professional development.
A long-standing member of the association “Sreća za sve”, Aida is participating in individual career counselling activities organised through the EMPOWERED project. The counselling programme provides personalised support to persons with disabilities, helping them recognise their strengths, explore their interests and abilities, and prepare for future employment opportunities.
For Aida, one of the most important aspects of this process is building self-confidence. Through individual counselling, she is working on strengthening her belief in her own abilities and preparing for the next steps in her professional journey. The support she receives is intended to help her approach future opportunities with greater confidence and a clearer understanding of her personal and professional goals.
However, Aida’s experience within the project extends beyond career development.
Participation in project workshops has also provided opportunities to meet new people, exchange experiences and develop meaningful relationships. During these activities, Aida formed a close friendship with another participant. Their connection has continued beyond the workshops and the association’s regular activities, becoming an important and positive part of her experience.
This friendship highlights another valuable dimension of the EMPOWERED project: creating spaces where persons with disabilities can connect, support one another and strengthen their sense of belonging within the community.
Aida’s story demonstrates that empowerment is not limited to acquiring professional skills or preparing for employment. It also involves developing confidence, building relationships and having opportunities to participate more actively in social and community life.
Through individual career counselling, psychosocial support and other inclusion activities, the EMPOWERED project seeks to address both the professional and personal dimensions of empowerment, recognising that each participant has different needs, abilities and aspirations.
Stories such as Aida’s reflect the importance of providing individualised support and creating inclusive environments in which persons with disabilities can develop their potential, establish meaningful connections and take steps towards greater independence.
The EMPOWERED project – Inclusion of persons with disabilities, regional cooperation and development in the Western Balkans is led by Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).