Peace indicator | Potoci

---

  The Power of Unity: Achieving the Extraordinary when We Join Forces

_{Author: Mirza Lalić}

Potoci, located just a few kilometers north of Mostar,  can be seen as a microcosm of Bosnia and Herzegovina, showcasing immense geographical, touristic, and infrastructural potential, as well as a human potential that is often overlooked and overshadowed. From this pool of human resources and potential, numerous successful companies, businesses, institutions, and associations have emerged, all effectively managed by the residents themselves.

Potoci is also home to a significant number of civic associations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that operate across various sectors and fields, encompassing a diverse range of activities. I have had the privilege of gaining substantial experience in collaborating with NGOs and associations. Immediately after the war, I worked as a project assistant for the international organization Norwegian People’s Aid, which actively engaged in facilitating the return of people to their homes and the reconstruction of war-damaged residential and other infrastructure.

People of all nationalities and affiliations actively participated in these projects, demonstrating their willingness to volunteer and contribute towards the restoration and reconstruction of the damaged structures. It was a powerful testament to the collective effort and unity that can be achieved when we join forces. Despite the recent period of war and conflict, there were no incidents or conflicts during the implementation of these projects by international and local NGOs. They worked diligently on the rehabilitation and construction of buildings, while also playing an active role in promoting reconciliation among people.

At that time, I personally observed a certain degree of skepticism that permeated among all of us, but particularly among our foreign friends who were temporarily residing in our country. They couldn’t fathom the notion that the reconstruction efforts would unfold seamlessly and that the return to our community would be marked by such intensity and a lack of significant incidents.

Following my engagement with the aforementioned international organization, I embarked on a new chapter in the early 2000s, working at the renovated Cultural Center in Potoci, which now boasts an impressive appearance. This Cultural Center serves as a hub for people of diverse nationalities to come together. It is a space where various projects are realized, fostering collaborations with numerous non-governmental organizations.

Today, individuals of diverse nationalities and backgrounds come together primarily at the Cultural Center, which maintains an exceptional collaboration with the non-governmental sector. This vibrant hub hosts a wide range of projects and activities, including art exhibitions, book promotions, film screenings, theatrical performances, concerts, music festivals, as well as various seminars, educational programs, and workshops.

One aspect that I personally take great pride in is the traditional summer mini football tournament held at the stadium near the primary school in Potoci. This tournament attracts an immense number of people from all walks of life and nationalities, not only from Mostar but from all corners of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and even the wider region. Over the course of approximately one month, thousands of individuals come together to support their respective football clubs in the tournament. Another noteworthy event is the annual “Cherry Days” fair, which serves as a shining example of community engagement. This fair gathers numerous exhibitors, often numbering in the dozens, from across the Balkan region. Furthermore, it is important to mention an association that has been tirelessly advocating for an improved water supply system in Potoci. What makes this association particularly remarkable is that it is led by both a Croat and a Bosniak, demonstrating the power of collaboration and unity in addressing communal challenges.                                        

As someone who has been actively involved in my community for almost 25 years, I am proud to emphasize the outstanding collaboration among religious institutions and authorities. In our community, it has become a cherished tradition to organize shared lunches, dinners, or iftars on occasions like Christmas, Catholic Easter, Orthodox Easter, Ramadan, or Eid. These gatherings have become a hallmark of our community, serving as a positive example for others to follow.