In the heart of Eastern Bosnia, in the serene village of Bogušići, lives eleven-year-old Amna, whose heart radiates warmth and kindness. Recently, Amna became the first recipient of a scholarship from the "Second" Foundation, and her story is an inspiration to us all.
We met her in December 2022 during a visit to families with children facing developmental challenges. Amna's grandmother, Emira Hodžić, leads the Association for Persons with Special Needs of the Bosnian-Podrinje Canton.
Gentle, kind and humble
The director of the Foundation, Belma Mujezinović, describes Amna as "gentle, kind, and humble. When she hugs you, it's with such sincerity and warmth that you'd wish to hold her in an everlasting embrace."
Although Amna's mother fought a brain tumor and lost her battle two years ago, she bravely carried her pregnancy to term and gave birth to a baby brother. Amna already had an older sister.
Now, her brother sees her as a motherly figure. She takes the utmost care of him, changes his diapers, feeds him, and loves him as her mother did. The love in which she was raised made her incredibly resilient, especially when it was needed most.
An Excellent Pupil
Amna is an outstanding student who attends mekteb (a religious school). She also trains in gymnastics, athletics, and karate, proudly holding a green belt. She has won numerous diplomas and awards for her accomplishments, making it challenging to enumerate them all.
Emira Hodžić, Amna's grandmother, proudly says, "She assists me in the kitchen, helps with household chores, and cares for our chickens. In fact, she is the one who takes the most care of them. She sells eggs and keeps meticulous records. She saves money and directs it where it is needed most."
Despite her young age, Amna has displayed remarkable maturity and responsibility. Her big heart and her desire to help others shine through in everything she does.
Recently, she penned a poem that reflects her dreams and aspirations for the future:
WHEN I GROW UP, I JUST WANT TO BE HAPPY
In my heart, there is a single wish,
The truth within it is deeply inscribed.
When I grow up, I want to be happy,
And nothing more will be required.
I will never give up on my wish,
I will fight and pray as much as I can.
To attain my personal happiness,
I will turn to the beloved God.
Oh, happiness, please do not bypass me,
Come, visit my heart.
Let tears of joy flow from my eyes,
And let the sun shine before my eyes.
In my soul, there's a single desire,
One that nothing will ever erase.
When I grow up, I want to be happy,
And nothing more will be required.
Amna is the embodiment of a true little hero in her village and throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Her spirit, courage, and selfless love for her family and community make her an exceptional role model for us all.
Donations for scholarships and support for the "Second" Foundation can be made to our account with the note "Scholarship Fund":
SECOND FOUNDATION
NURIJE POZDERCA 8, SARAJEVO
BAM: 1413115320025053
or
EUR/USD IBAN: BA391413115310005729, SWIFT: BBIBBA22XXX, Bosna Bank International DD Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Additionally, donations can be made through PayPal at the address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling the unique humanitarian number for all telecom operators in Bosnia and Herzegovina: 17077, where you can donate 2 KM for this selfless cause.
We thank everyone who has already supported this noble initiative.