NextGen Adria
What is NextGen Adria?
NextGen Adria is the youth leadership platform of the Adria Future Summit. It is designed to move young people from the margins of discussion into the centre of decision-making on sustainability, governance and innovation across the Adria region.
The programme creates structured opportunities for young leaders to engage directly with policymakers, institutional leaders, business executives, and international experts. It responds to clear evidence from the region: young people want a stronger voice, and they see regional cooperation as a practical pathway to progress. The programme has received sustained support from international partners, including the Regional Cooperation Council’s Western Balkans Youth Lab 2, as well as from private sector partners, notably Universal Capital Bank Montenegro, and institutional support from the Young European Ambassadors.
At the fourth edition of the Adria Future Summit, NextGen Adria will focus on engaging a new generation of leaders across the region, treating them not as observers or beneficiaries, but as contributors and partners in shaping the region’s future.
What We Want to Do Next
NextGen Adria is not a one-off programme. Our ambition is to develop it into a year-round platform that consistently connects young leaders with institutions, decision-makers, and regional initiatives.
Going forward, we aim to:
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- Expand participation across the Adria region, with a stronger focus on diversity of backgrounds and disciplines.
- Create more structured opportunities for youth input into policy, governance and sustainability initiatives linked to the Summit.
- Strengthen partnerships with universities, youth networks, and international organisations.
- Support young leaders in translating dialogue into concrete projects, recommendations, and long-term engagement.
Our objective is simple but ambitious: to ensure that the next generation is not only prepared for the future but actively involved in shaping it.
How NextGen Adria Engages Young Leaders
NextGen Adria’s activities are designed to create meaningful exposure, dialogue, and connection, allowing young leaders to engage with the Summit’s core themes and bring forward ideas and insights that influence regional debates.
At the Summit, engagement begins with direct access to decision-makers. Carefully structured conversations with political leaders, senior officials and institutional representatives allow young participants to contribute perspectives in settings that encourage openness and mutual respect. NextGen Adria also places strong emphasis on policy-oriented dialogue. Through moderated discussions and interactive formats, young leaders are invited to take part in conversations on sustainability, governance, regional cooperation, and innovation. The aim is to position them as informed contributors, helping bridge generational perspectives while keeping discussions focused and constructive.
Beyond formal sessions, the programme values learning through proximity. By participating in selected panels, informal conversations and networking moments throughout the Summit, young leaders are exposed to global thinking, professional pathways, and practical insights. These interactions are intentionally lighttouch, designed to inspire rather than overwhelm, and to complement rather than compete with the main programme.
Equally important is peer connection. NextGen Adria creates space for young participants to meet each other across borders and disciplines, helping build a regional network that can continue beyond the Summit.
What We Aim to Achieve
Our intention is to gradually strengthen the presence of young voices within the Summit ecosystem. Each edition of NextGen Adria builds on the previous one, refining formats, deepening partnerships and responding to feedback from participants and institutions alike.
Over time, NextGen Adria aims to:
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- Normalise the inclusion of young leaders in regional discussions.
- Strengthen dialogue between generations without formalising it excessively.
- Support informed participation rather than symbolic presence.
- Create continuity between Summit editions through networks and partnerships.
NextGen Adria is an integral part of the Summit, helping ensure that its direction and priorities remain relevant and responsive to the perspectives and realities of future generations.

Ditjon Fetahu

Adla Kahrić
Bosnia and Herzegovina

Andrea Ugrinoska

Sandra Veljković

Emilija Bojić

Adi Softić

Antonio Grujevski

Sara Ceshko

Kleidi Memo

Edina Osmanović

Ilir Kiçmari

Elif Su Čakmak

Marija Blažević
Kosovo

Jovana Mitrić
Montenegro

Ademir Ćosićkić

Drina Srdić

Lara Savić

Filip Jovetić

Ditjon Fetahu
Ditjon Fetahu is a Law student at the University of Pristina, specialising in pre-university education, youth affairs, and human rights in Kosovo. Over the past decade, he has actively engaged in advocacy and professional initiatives aimed at catalysing societal change in Kosovo. Through extensive training in management, communication, and organisational leadership, both locally and internationally, Ditjon has developed robust skills to navigate complex social dynamics and drive meaningful progress.
With a demonstrated track record of assuming leadership roles within various organisations, Ditjon brings a wealth of experience and expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and coalition-building. He is dedicated to contributing to Kosovo’s advancement and prosperity, as he continues to leverage his knowledge and capabilities for the betterment of society.

Adla Kahrić
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Adla Kahrić is a spirited nature advocate and scientist from Bosnia and Herzegovina. With an innate love for the great outdoors, Adla’s journey is proof to her unwavering dedication to our planet’s well-being. She’s not your average nature advocate — Adla is a scientist, scuba diver, marathon finisher (42k), climber and TEDx speaker, proving that passion knows no bounds. Her desire for adventure is only matched by her dedication to preserving our planet. With her degrees gained at University of Sarajevo and University of Trieste, more than 50 scientific papers and more than 40 projects, she’s a driving force in the fields of nature protection, science, and policy. Currently she is working on the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services and the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution to make a planet a better place and harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. Hardworking, dedicated and driven by a desire for positive change, Adla Kahrić is working towards a brighter, greener future.

Andrea Ugrinoska
North Macedonia
Andrea Ugrinoska is an experienced professional with a background in NGOs, international organizations, and government. She holds a BA in Psychology and two MA degrees in European Social Integration and International Relations. Andrea began her career in North Macedonia, contributing to the development of the first Youth Law, before working in Brussels and London on EU policies and environmental initiatives. As Executive Director of a political network, she created the Alliance of Mayors for climate change and led a Europe-wide assessment on women’s participation in politics. She served as Chair of the Advisory Council on Youth at the Council of Europe, and later advised governments in North Macedonia and Serbia at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change. Currently, she co-founded a company focused on ISO standards and ESG.

Sandra Veljković
Serbia
Sandra Veljković is a political scientist who stands out for her engagement in the field of political participation and the involvement of youth in decision-making processes. Lives in Belgrade, where she completed her studies at the Faculty of Political Sciences. During studies, she began her career as an educator of high school students on the electoral process, laying the groundwork for her further professional development. Today, she works as a Program Manager at the Centre E8 in Belgrade, where she coordinates the “Ide Glas” campaign, the largest socio-political campaign in Serbia which is realised from 2022 until today. This campaign aims to strengthen the democratic capacity of citizens in Serbia, focusing on political education and encouraging active participation in social processes. Alongside her professional engagement, Sandra is currently pursuing a master’s degree in political Analysis – Elections, Parties, and Democracy, deepening her knowledge of political parties and democratisation.

Emilija Bojić
Serbia
Emilija Bojić is the co-founder of the Community Fridge Initiative in Belgrade, a project committed to improving food security and reducing waste. By establishing public fridges for food donations, the initiative ensures that vulnerable groups have reliable access to meals. Under her leadership, partnerships with WWF Adria, Red Cross Serbia, and the Belgrade Food Bank have provided over 25,000 meals to those in need. The initiative earned the Social Impact Award and was recognized at the WWF Adria Regional Youth Summit for its significant contributions to sustainability. As a member of the Executive Board of the European Youth Parliament Serbia, Emilija spearheads fundraising and strategic partnerships, securing support from esteemed organizations such as the Open Society Foundations, Coca-Cola, and Bosch. Her efforts help foster democracy, civic engagement, and youth participation across the region.

Adi Softić
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Adi Softić is a chairperson with experience in entertainment, cultural and event management, public speaking, and public relations. He holds a degree in Political Science and International Relations with a minor in International Business from the University of Buckingham. He represented Bosnia in Madonna’s Art for Freedom project and worked with figures like former Croatian president Ivo Josipović. His events and exhibitions have reached over 10,000 people. As co-founder of Ex Files Maglaj, he helped preserve flood-affected heritage, drawing 7,000+ visitors and over a million online views. As chairman of Dictum Factum, he leads regional youth projects and launched Maglaj Spirit Weekend. He is currently Members Relations Manager at ABSL, promoting Bosnia’s business services sector.

Antonio Grujevski
North Macedonia
Antonio Grujevski holds a Master’s degree in Architecture and Urban Planning and works between Zagreb and Skopje. He focuses on sustainable architecture and restoration, with an emphasis on environmental challenges in Europe. He won first prize at the “Skopje of the New Generation” competition organized by Europe House for his project “Lotus for Her: A Sustainable Oasis in Skopje’s City Park.” His work supports the green and digital transitions in the Western Balkans, aligning with the goals of the European Green Agenda.

Sara Ceshko
Kosovo
Passionate about youth empowerment, regional integration, and policy advocacy, she actively engages in community-building initiatives, workshops, and campaigns to inspire positive change. As a Young European Ambassador, Sara promotes EU values and fosters dialogue in the Western Balkans. Her role as the Leader of the Youth Council of Prishtina has allowed me to work closely with students, organizing events that enhance education quality and civic engagement. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Political Science at the University of Prishtina, she has a strong interest in international relations and public administration. Beyond her academic journey, she contributes to impactful initiatives, such as the UNICEF Reference Group, the OSCE Mission’s Girls Talks Programme, and various youth-led projects tackling mental health awareness and social change.

Kleidi Memo
Albania
Kleidi Memo is a student of International Relations at the University of New York Tirana. His journey in activism began with Blueprint, and in October 2022, he was elected as a Young European Ambassador. Deeply committed to democracy, European integration, and human rights, Kleidi has been motivated from a young age to contribute to positive change in Albania. His long-term goal is to support Albania’s path toward EU membership and help realize the national aspiration of becoming a free, democratic country within the European Union.

Edina Osmanović
Montenegro
Edina Osmanović is a young Montenegrin entrepreneur, innovator, and passionate youth and environmental advocate. She is the co-founder and CEO of withmeglobal.com, a platform that connects young people worldwide to help them find roommates. Edina graduated with top honors in International Economics, Finance, and Business from the University of Donja Gorica. She holds a Master’s degree in Entrepreneurial Economics – Business Psychology and Management, where her thesis focused on the impact of women’s entrepreneurship and negotiation skills on socio-economic development in the Western Balkans A recipient of the prestigious Global UGRAD Leadership Scholarship, Edina completed a semester at Chatham University in the U.S. and later participated in the Erasmus+ programme during her postgraduate studies in Spain. In 2022, she was a speaker at the 2nd International Logistics Camp at AAST Alamein in Egypt, where she shared insights on business economics.

Ilir Kiçmari
Kosovo
Ilir Kiçmari is a project manager, co-founder and Chairman of the Board for Student Initiative for Novation 68 from Kosovo with a strong background in mathematics, computer science, and student activism. He holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science at the University of Prishtina, focusing on Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, Ilir has received three merit-based scholarships from the University of Prishtina and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology. He also completed an exchange semester at Riga Technical University. Ilir has led projects such as Science Week I-III, REVUACT, Student Activism Camp, FANI, and PSR, supported by ORCA and the Austrian Development Agency. He currently works as a Project Manager at Digital School in Prishtina, managing the USAID Private Sector-Led Workforce Development Activity, which develops curricula, trains students, and provides internships. Additionally, he teaches programming logic to children and full-stack development, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP & MySQL, and Python.

Elif Su Čakmak
Montenegro
Elif Su Čakmak is a creative professional with experience in visual arts, film production, and digital content creation. She has designed posters for cultural events, produced the short film TIME, and contributed to the Turkish art magazine Artistic. Currently, she is a Digital Content Creator Intern at Prome Solutions. Her artistic work was recognized with an honorable mention at the 50th International Children’s Exhibition of Fine Arts Lidice in 2022. In addition to her creative pursuits, she is an active volunteer with the Red Cross of Montenegro, supporting asylum-seeking children, organizing aid initiatives, and participating in training on humanitarian law and community engagement. She has also contributed to international efforts on informal caregiving in Montenegro, Serbia, and Austria.

Marija Blažević
Kosovo
Marija Blažević is a legal professional specializing in international law, with a strong commitment to rule of law, education, gender equality, democracy, and human rights. As a Young European Ambassador, she actively engages in discussions, organizes workshops, and contributes to regional and European projects that promote knowledge-sharing and skills development. As part of UNDP’s Next Generation initiative, she advocates for social change and has addressed the Youth Parliament at the Parliament of Montenegro, calling for civic education to become a mandatory subject in schools. Her professional experience includes roles at the Delegation of the European Union in Montenegro, the Ministry of European Affairs, the Parliament of Montenegro, and the NGO sector.

Jovana Mitrić
Montenegro
Jovana Mitrić is a master’s student in artificial intelligence at the University of Donja Gorica, where she also serves as a teaching associate in AI, machine learning, and information technologies. She gained international experience at the University of West Attica in Greece, studying informatics and computer engineering. She actively contributes to European projects such as EuroCC (High-Performance Computing) and Stecci (IT and AI in cultural heritage). Her research, “AI and Computer Vision in Cultural Heritage Preservation,” was published at an international conference. Previously, she interned at ICL Montenegro and worked in media production.

Ademir Ćosićkić
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ademir Ćosićkić is a Chemical Engineering and Technology graduate with professional experience in the chemical industry. He has been active in the NGO sector since 2016, contributing to projects such as BH Engineering Weeks, Tuzla Kids Festival, and the Festival of Contemporary Women. He participated in ERASMUS+ projects in Portugal, Germany, and Croatia. He was selected as a Climate Connection Fellow by Das Progressive Zentrum, a Berlin-based think tank, and recognized as a future climate leader from South-Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans. Ademir worked with World Vision Bosnia and Herzegovina, facilitating life skills workshops for children and youth.

Drina Srdić
Serbia
Drina Srdić is a 20-year-old second-year student at FEFA Faculty. She is the President of the Case Study Club and a member of the student parliament. Her team was among the top five globally in the Global Online Case Competition 2024 and qualified for the regional finals of L’Oréal Brandstorm 2024.

Lara Savić
Serbia
Lara Savić is a first-year student at FEFA Faculty in Belgrade, Serbia, and a 2024 graduate of the 14th Belgrade Gymnasium. She participated in several business and economics competitions, including the Junior Achievement “Student Companies Competition”, where her team won 1st place at the regional level.

Filip Jovetić
Montenegro
Filip Jovetić is a law student at the University of Montenegro, where he served as a Student Representative for three semesters. He has experience in sales and management, having worked as a Sales Assistant and later as a Commercial Manager at Pet Zvjezdica. He is currently gaining legal experience at the Jovetić Law Office and through the Council of Europe’s Legal Clinic programme. He also participated in a student exchange through the Erasmus+ programme, enriching his academic and intercultural experience.