At the end of last year, as the days grew shorter and the mountains slowly became blanketed in snow, Foundation Second took an important step in creating a safe refuge in Ledići for the beneficiaries of the Home for children without parental care Sarajevo (Bjelave Orphanage). It was then that the Parent council of “Fatima Gunić” Primary School, led by its president Eldina Bajramović, came to our aid.
In a short time, they raised 2,980 KM (1.523,80 EUR), which were used to purchase essential household items – everything that makes a house feel like a home: dishes, bedding, towels, hangers, and other everyday necessities. Thanks to this generous donation, the mountain house in the village of Ledići on Bjelašnica – granted to the children by the proBITRA Foundation for a 99-year use – was able to welcome its first young guests.
Today, we are proud to say that the house is already hosting workshops, excursions, and multi-day stays – activities that provide the children with a break from everyday life, time in nature, and a sense of being seen, loved, and valued.
“When I asked Eldina if the Parent Council of the school named after my late teacher – Fatima Gunić – would be willing to help the children from the orphanage, she immediately replied, ‘of course.’ They quickly raised nearly 3,000 KM (1.530 EUR), which enabled us to furnish the house with everything necessary for the children to begin staying there,” recalled Belma Mujezinović, Director of Foundation Second.
The donation was transferred to the Foundation’s account, and a symbolic presentation of thank-you certificates was held during one of the Parent Council’s meetings. On that occasion, the Foundation’s director also brought her report card from grades 1 to 4, which she decided to donate for a permanent display in the Memorial room dedicated to teacher Fatima Gunić and her students.
As a reminder, they tragically lost their lives on November 9, 1993, during the aggression on Bosnia and Herzegovina, when a shell struck the improvised classroom where teacher Fatima was holding a lesson. That day, along with their teacher, three students also lost their lives. Though she could have stayed at home, teacher Fatima came to school – driven by her belief in the importance of education and her desire to give the children a sense of normalcy in abnormal times. The school she once enriched with her dedication now proudly bears her name – a lasting tribute to her courage, selflessness, and love for children.
Adding an emotional depth to the occasion was the presence of the school’s current principal, Azra Tucaković – who, at the time of Fatima Gunić’s death, was a young girl and her neighbor. Today, as principal of the school that proudly bears Fatima’s name, Azra is devoted to preserving the memory of her life and legacy – through educational activities, initiatives, and the planned establishment of the Memorial Room. Her commitment to this task stems not only from professional duty, but from a sincere and deeply personal connection and respect for a teacher who left an indelible mark.
“Returning to the school was deeply emotional. Walking through the hallways brought back memories of childhood, school days, my efforts to earn top grades and the remark ‘excellent behavior.’ My teacher Fatima was a symbol of kindness and dedication – I remember her tying my long hair into a side ponytail and teaching me to be responsible, attentive, and brave,” said Belma.
Today, as the house in Ledići has become a vibrant place of children’s laughter, learning, and peace, we take this opportunity to look back – with deep respect and heartfelt gratitude – at all those who made it possible. The support of the parents, teachers, and leadership of “Fatima Gunić” Primary School will remain forever written in this story.
Foundation Second extends sincere thanks to everyone who took part. Thank you for standing with us then – and more importantly, for standing with them now.