This year’s gathering did not disappoint either. The kind hosts, BiH association Coventry, in co-organization with BH UK Network, did everything to make the 23rd Meeting of BiH secondary schools in Great Britain go smoothly. This was a unique opportunity to refresh old memories, make new friendships, and for all students to become aware that they are proud Bosnians and Herzegovinans.
Undeniably, these meetings of Bosnians and Herzegovinians on the Island have become the largest gathering of citizens in Great Britain. We have already entered the third decade of continuously holding such meetings, which have already become a tradition. In addition to more than 400 Bosnian citizens from various cities in England, the meeting was also graced by dear friends at the “Sidney Stringer Academy”.
The program began with the national anthems of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Great Britain. The program was opened by Zina Hasanbegović and Bilal Kablić, last year’s graduates of the Coventry BH supplementary school, who did an excellent job in their roles as hosts. The audience was also addressed by Almin Kazić, president of the Coventry BH Association, and Zaim Pašić, president of the BH UK Network.
The meeting was magnified by distinguished guests who addressed those present; Simon Topman MBE DL, Queen’s Envoy of the West Midlands Region, Kevin Maton, Mayor of Coventry City and HE Vanja Filipović, Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Great Britain.
This was followed by a cultural and artistic program in which students from BiH secondary schools in Great Britain (Coventry, Birmingham, Victoria London, Derby, Hertfordshire, and Manchester) participated. Each school presented itself freely, reciting verses of our famous poets, singing cheerful songs, and performing skits. The goal of these meetings is already sebh. Citizens, from the youngest to the oldest, get together and spend a nice and cheerful afternoon with song and dance.
The unforgettable gathering could not have taken place without the KUD “Mladost Bosne” from Birmingham. Some of them, trained with the expertise, love and patience of choreographer Fahira Hasedžić, drew a long and well-deserved applause from the packed hall, filled to the last seat.
After the jury had selected the best works, the Queen’s envoy, Simon Topman MBE DL, had the honour of congratulating the winners and presenting the awards. We can certainly say that everyone present had the opportunity to have fun with the children’s knowledge and creativity.
Hana Hatić’s work was declared the best artistic work, and Lejla Hrnčić’s the best literary work.
Zana Hasanbegović won second place for literary work, and Vedad Trnovac for artistic work.
Amil Medić won the third place for art work, and Aldijana Dedić for literary work.
Following the plan, a lunch was organized, which was prepared by the hardworking volunteers of the local association. They welcomed about 500 guests with a rich selection of food.
Beautiful weather and extremely good conditions for the planned sports activities enticed everyone present outside. Football took the lead this time as well, accompanied by thunderous cheering from all ages. Sports games and various creative workshops were held for all students of Bosnia and Herzegovina. supplementary schools, after which the winners were presented with prizes for the first, second and third places.
In football, the first place was won by the Coventry school, second place by Birmingham and third place by Hertfordshire.
Bronze, silver, gold… all of these are medals to commemorate an unforgettable gathering.
Dear Bosnians and Herzegovinans, first of all, thank you for the massive response to everyone individually. Many thanks to our distinguished guests, teachers, students and parents.
Thank you, the most beautiful BH. To the Coventry Association, our host this year, for their exceptional kindness, unforgettable welcome and hospitality, especially our lovely hostesses who made an effort to make every guest feel welcome.
Many thanks and see you next year in even greater numbers in another city at the 24th Meeting!
