Leading by Example for Improved Market Reach in Bosnia
In the Bosnian town of Jablanica, women have long faced limited economic opportunities and few spaces to turn their skills into sustainable livelihoods. The women’s association, «Most», was already active, bringing together women dedicated to preserving culture, crafts, and solidarity, but their reach was local, and their efforts often informal and under-recognized. Without stronger market links or access to learning opportunities, their potential remained untapped.
How the Project Empowered Women in Jablanica
Caritas Switzerland supported economic and social empowerment in this community through the RAST project and «Basket from My Village» initiative, which helped women gain new skills and produce local products (locally processed food, handicrafts, wood crafts, etc.) aimed at achieving four long-term goals:
- to improve inclusion of women, youth, and other excluded populations in formal and informal groups,
- to generate new income,
- to showcasing the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Herzegovina region,
- and to raise community awareness and market locally made products.
More than 50 women took part in trainings that combined traditional knowledge with new market-oriented skills in food safety, product presentation, marketing, and cooperation with local businesses and tourism actors.
With RAST’s support, «Most» strengthened its internal organization, gained visibility, and built partnerships with the municipality and local producers. This opened doors for women to reach broader markets, expand sales of homemade goods, and shift from informal community work to structured, sustainable engagement.
Collective Humanitarian Action led by Women
When floods hit Jablanica in October 2024, these women demonstrated their leadership and embodied the essence of the Market Systems Development (MSD) approach, showing that, when women have stronger market positioning and resources, they also have the confidence and ability to lead collective action. Led by the «Most» president, Ćamila Imamović, they quickly mobilized to cook and distribute warm meals to affected families, proving that economic empowerment goes hand-in-hand with social resilience.
Building Resilient Communities Through Local Leadership
The story of «Most» shows that empowering existing local structures is often the most effective path to sustainable change.
«Caritas didn’t create us – they believed in us. That belief helped us grow stronger, more visible, and more connected.»Ćamila Imamović«Most» president
Today, they continue to innovate, promote locally produced food and other products, mentor young women, and strengthen rural entrepreneurship. Their association is now seen as a key partner in Jablanica’s development, bridging economic inclusion and community wellbeing. Their journey is a living example that when trust and opportunity meet, communities can rebuild, women can lead, and markets can truly serve people.
Further Information about our Work in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Header image: © Caritas Switzerland in Bosnia and Herzegovina