I am honored to submit my candidacy for the position of Regional Representative and member of the IAVE Board of Directors. With over 20 years of experience in promoting, developing, and advocating for volunteering at the local, national, regional, and international levels, I am deeply committed to advancing IAVE’s mission and strengthening the culture and infrastructure of volunteering globally.
As a representative of ADP-Zid, a leading organization in Montenegro dedicated to civic engagement and volunteerism, I have had the privilege of working closely with a wide range of stakeholders – including governments, civil society, educational institutions, and international networks – to design and implement impactful volunteer programs. ADP-Zid is the longest-standing IAVE member in the region, with over 15 years of continuous and active involvement, and I have been directly engaged in building and nurturing this relationship. Through this collaboration, I have participated in IAVE conferences, contributed to regional dialogues, and supported knowledge exchange across borders.
Our organization is also a member of the Good Deeds Day initiative and the Points of Light network, giving me further insights into diverse global volunteering movements. These affiliations have deepened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities in volunteer engagement, especially in post-transition societies.
At the local and national levels, I have worked to institutionalize volunteering through policy development, training frameworks, and national volunteer strategies. Regionally, I have supported cross-border initiatives to foster solidarity, inclusion, and volunteer mobility. I bring strong experience in coalition-building, advocacy, and leadership development—core areas that align with IAVE’s strategic priorities.
If elected to the Board of Directors, I will work to amplify the voices and needs of volunteer-involving organizations across Europe, particularly those in underrepresented or emerging contexts. I will prioritize inclusivity, network-building, and innovation to support IAVE’s continued relevance and impact. I am committed to working collaboratively with other board members to ensure that IAVE remains a strong, values-driven, and responsive global leader in the volunteer movement.
Thank you for your trust and consideration.