Vildana, Bosnia and Herzegovina

MED ’25 – More Than Just a Journey

« In life, we often have the chance to meet new people and build friendships, but many of them remain just memories – fragments of time we once shared. My experience with MED ’25, however, was far more than that. I want to begin with what meant the most to me: friendship. But not just any friendship – this one was deep, genuine, and felt like a second family.

We were not just a group of young people spending 15 days together. We lived alongside one another, shared our daily routines, created memories, and built a small world where each of us belonged. Despite our differences – in nationality, language, culture, and faith – we were united by something greater: our hearts, open and pure, full of a desire for friendship, love, and peace. We shared our happiness, fears, pain, and dreams. We cared for each other – making sure no one went hungry, checking if someone could eat certain foods, or needed medication – just like we would care for our own siblings. The respect we showed one another was so sincere, it deserves to be written into the very blue of the sea, so anyone who comes near it can feel it.

One moment that held special meaning for me was having the opportunity to represent my faith – Islam. I was deeply grateful for the chance to present my religion in its true light: pure, respectful, and rooted in compassion for others. I sincerely hope that for those who were meeting someone of Islamic faith for the first time, I was able to leave a positive, beautiful image – a reflection of what Islam truly stands for. It was a humbling and proud moment for me, and one that deepened my sense of responsibility as well as connection.

Wherever we went, we spread love, smiles, and understanding. We planted seeds of unity. Many “adults” could learn from us – how to respect, how to talk without judgment or competition, how to embrace differences with open hearts. We built a friendship that transcended all barriers, one that I hope will last a lifetime.

Although I come from a multicultural country with many nations and religions, this experience was a true breath of fresh air – nourishment for my soul. In a world where faith and identity are often used to divide, MED ’25 reminded me that what truly defines us is our heart, our actions, and our willingness to embrace the other.

As a medical student, most of my life revolves around learning and acquiring knowledge. But this experience inspired me to go further – to become an advocate for peace. I want to bring something like MED ’25 to my own country. I want to show young people that it’s possible to share, respect, and live in harmony – even in a small space like a boat – and that such a space can become a model for the world we want to live in. That’s why I want to encourage more young people to apply for future MED programs – MED ’26, MED ’27 – so that many of us can experience what I did, and share that inspiration to build a better society together.

Alone, I may not be able to change much. But together – as a group of young people who believe in peace, love, and unity – I’m confident that great things are ahead of us.

I truly hope this is just the beginning of something much greater. And I believe, with all my heart, that we are the ones who will change the world – step by step, with small actions that lead to big transformations.

And finally, thank you – to all the organizers and participants who made this experience possible. You are all welcome in my country, in my city, in my home – just as you are already welcome in my heart. »

Vildana