Meet Anes Kujović from Sarajevo, the first UN Volunteer with Down syndrome in the world
Anes Kujović from Sarajevo is the first person with Down syndrome in the world to become a United Nations Volunteer. He joined as part of the Regional Programme on Local Democracy in the Western Balkans 2 (ReLOaD2), thus gaining the opportunity to attain work experience. In the premises of the Municipality of Centar Sarajevo, where hundreds of employees are busy completing their daily duties, hides the inspiring life story of Anes.
The life path of 21-year-old Anes was not the same as that of his peers. From early childhood he walked through a world that often did not understand his unique abilities. He was born with Down syndrome, which greatly influenced his upbringing and life circumstances, from schooling and adolescence to acceptance in society. But every obstacle was a new step towards success for him.
Bringing innovation and inspiration to youth in Madagascar
This International Youth Day, we share the inspiring story of Tiavina Solomampionona Nambinintsoa. Tiavina just concluded her assignment at UNFPA Madagascar, where she served as a national UN Youth Volunteer and Young Innovator Fellow. As a Young Innovator, Tiavina's approach to innovation extended beyond technology, focusing on doing things differently to achieve better results. In an end-of-assignment interview with Tiavina, we dove into her experiences, the impact she made on the people she served, and the lessons she learned along the way.
What did your day-to-day work at UNFPA Madagascar entail?