Big success: Bosnia & Herzegovina Professionals Meetup in Zurich
More than 80 members of the Bosnian & Herzegovinian community, friends, and partners packed the ETH Alumni Pavilion for an inspiring afternoon hosted by our long-time friend and Foundation Ambassador Dr. Haris Piplas, an ETH Zurich alumnus who completed his doctorate at this prestigious institution. The event showcased how bottom-up community action, academic excellence, and industry engagement can work together to shape the next generation—at home and across the diaspora.
Highlights at a Glance
80+ attendees (standing room only)
Host: Dr. Haris Piplas (ETH alumnus & BHFF Ambassador)
Speakers: Dr. Edhem Custović (BHFF Founder), Dr. Haris Piplas (ETH Zurich), Dino Selimbašić (HTEC)
Special address: Video greeting from H.E. Gabriele Derighetti, Ambassador of Switzerland to Bosnia & Herzegovina
90 minutes of structured speed networking, followed by extended, informal connections late into the evening
A Night of Purpose and Momentum
Setting the Stage
Welcoming everyone to ETH Zurich, Dr. Haris Piplas outlined the university’s legacy and its pivotal role in educating leaders across Swiss society. He spotlighted the academic bridge between ETH Zurich and the University of Sarajevo, a collaboration he has helped nurture for years—ensuring Sarajevo, and Bosnia & Herzegovina more broadly, feature prominently in European academic and policy discussions.
The BHFF Journey
Dr. Edhem Custović, BH Futures Foundation founder, traced the Foundation’s beginnings, its mission, and impact to date. He emphasized bottom-up change: mobilising mentors, industry partners, and academic leaders to create opportunities for youth—both in Bosnia & Herzegovina and within the global diaspora. His message was clear: when we act together, we multiply outcomes.
Industry Spotlight: HTEC
Dino Selimbašić presented HTEC’s capabilities and growth story, underscoring the company’s commitment to innovation and talent. The overview left the room impressed and sparked numerous follow-up conversations about internships, research collaborations, and technology transfer.
A Message from the Swiss Ambassador
In a surprise video greeting, H.E. Gabriele Derighetti, Ambassador of Switzerland to Bosnia & Herzegovina, welcomed attendees and invited deeper connections between the two countries—encouraging the community to explore new avenues for cooperation in education, research, and business.
Networking That Matters
Following the talks, we hosted a 90-minute speed networking session to ensure meaningful, face-to-face introductions. The format worked: dozens of new connections were made across disciplines—engineering, physics, medicine, law, business, and architecture—and conversations continued late into the evening. The energy in the room reflected a simple truth: our community is ready to build.
Gratitude to Our Partners
This event would not have been possible without the generous support of HTEC and Mr. Sanel Helda. Your partnership is deeply appreciated and directly fuels our mission to uplift the next generation.
Thank you to everyone who joined us at ETH Zurich. With your support and participation, we continue to expand mentorship, scholarships, research linkages, and industry partnerships—building a brighter future for youth in Bosnia & Herzegovina and beyond.
PS: Thank you to our board member Azra Saric for being there with us, supporting and helping organise many details of the event. Also a bit thank you to our ambassador Haris Lizde for flying to for the event and ensuring things rans smoothly.
