BH Professionals Meetup London 2026
Connecting the Bosnian and Herzegovinian Diaspora Through Knowledge, Innovation, and Community
The third joint gathering of Bosnian and Herzegovinian professionals in London once again reminded us of the extraordinary strength, talent, and potential that exists within our global community. The BH Professionals Meetup brought together professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, academics, and creatives for an evening dedicated to connection, collaboration, and inspiration.
Held on 5. June 2026 at the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in London, the event created a space where meaningful conversations, new ideas, and shared experiences could flourish. Over two hours of networking and discussion, attendees reflected on the importance of maintaining strong ties between Bosnia and Herzegovina and its diaspora while exploring ways to contribute to future generations.
Opening Remarks and Support for the BH Community
The evening was officially opened by Osman Topčagić, Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United Kingdom, who expressed strong support for the work of the Foundation and emphasized that the Embassy remains open to young people and BH professionals eager to launch new initiatives and collaborations.
Representing the BH Futures Foundation, Dr. Martina Egedušević, Board Member of BHFF, academic at the University of Exeter, and Research Associate on the SENSUM project, introduced the structure and mission of the Foundation while highlighting the many ways individuals can contribute through mentorship, volunteering, research, and community engagement.
Reinvention, Growth, and the Importance of Belonging
One of the evening’s central themes was the importance of innovation and reinvention. Lilijan Sulejmanović, strategist, investment professional, and co-founder of Osvit.co and the British Bosnian Chamber of Commerce, shared reflections on embracing change and redefining professional paths.
Drawing from her experience studying at Oxford and Harvard, she encouraged attendees to remain open to independent thinking and new opportunities while preserving a strong sense of belonging to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
From Bosnia and Herzegovina to the Forefront of Science
The audience also heard from Nedim Sladić, one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most recognized meteorologists and climate researchers, currently pursuing doctoral studies at the University of Leicester and the National Centre for Earth Observation.
Through his personal journey, Nedim spoke about perseverance, scientific curiosity, and the importance of investing in knowledge that can positively impact both Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United Kingdom. He also expressed gratitude to the Chevening Programme and those who supported his academic journey.
Human Capital as Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Greatest Strength
A particularly powerful moment of the evening came from Neven Anđelić, who reflected on the immense human capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the value of maintaining connections across borders.
He reminded attendees that identities do not divide us but enrich us, emphasizing that societies grow stronger through diversity, knowledge, and openness.
Event Sponsor: SportiW - Innovation and Entrepreneurship Across Borders
Innovation and entrepreneurship were further highlighted through presentations by Željko Kiauta and Léa Gaget, founders of SportiW, who introduced their platform and the newly launched SportiWo project aimed at helping young athletes and sports managers from Bosnia and Herzegovina gain international visibility and access to global opportunities.
Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from Semir Kahrimanović, founder of Bozmaps and professional at Meta, who presented “Komšiluk,” a new networking platform currently under development.
Designed to connect individuals, organizations, and businesses rooted in the BH community, the platform aims to strengthen collaboration between the diaspora and Bosnia and Herzegovina through economic and professional partnerships.
Celebrating the Excellence of the BH Diaspora
The evening was expertly moderated by Samra Koričić Mujkić, who highlighted the achievements of the BH diaspora in the United Kingdom and recognized the many researchers, scientists, and professionals contributing to institutions across the world.
Special recognition was also given to Dr. Ahmed Kovačević as an example of excellence and dedication that continues to inspire younger generations.
Art, Culture, and Identity
Beyond the inspiring discussions, guests were able to enjoy a remarkable exhibition featuring works by Bosnian and Herzegovinian artists Sonja Rudan, Davorka Anđelić, Aleksandra Nina Knežević, and Aida Bartović.
Their artwork, inspired by the landscapes, culture, and identity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, added a powerful artistic dimension to the evening and transformed the Embassy space into a celebration of both professional and cultural excellence.
Looking Ahead
Closing the event, Ambassador Topčagić thanked all participants for contributing to another meaningful gathering and reminded citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina abroad of the importance of civic engagement ahead of the upcoming general elections in October 2026 with a simple but important message: “It is an election year — please vote.”
The BH Professionals Meetup in London once again demonstrated the importance of creating spaces where our community can connect, exchange ideas, and support one another. From science and technology to entrepreneurship, diplomacy, and the arts, the evening reflected the remarkable impact Bosnians and Herzegovinians continue to make around the world.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who attended, contributed, and helped make this event possible, especially the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the United Kingdom and SportiW for supporting the gathering. Together, we continue building bridges between Bosnia and Herzegovina, the United Kingdom, and the global BH community.
