Continuous self-improvement, perseverance, courage, and openness to new initiatives should serve as guiding principles for young people in their personal and professional development. This was one of the key takeaways from the two-day career orientation training organized by the Centre for Civic Education (CCE) and the NGO Multimedial Montenegro, held at the EU Corner in Bijelo Polje. The training aimed to empower youth, particularly those categorized as NEET – not in employment, education, or training.
Through workshops, tests, and group discussions, around 30 participants explored their professional interests, developed essential skills, and received practical advice for future employment. Topics included identifying personal competencies, understanding the labor market, CV writing, interview preparation, and navigating the challenges of the modern business world.
The training was led by Katarina Veličković, a teacher at the Secondary Vocational School in Bijelo Polje, and Željko Đukić, president of the NGO Multimedial Montenegro. The event also featured a contribution from the Mayor of Bijelo Polje, Petar Smolović, who participated in the opening session, sharing his personal and professional experiences with the youth.
“I am glad to have been part of such a meaningful event and to have spoken with young people about topics that were once unfamiliar to me – how to choose the right path, how to deal with doubts and mistakes, and how to stay persistent. A large number of young people from Bijelo Polje showed genuine interest, maturity, and creative ideas for developing our community. Their questions were thoughtful and inspiring, and I was pleased to respond to them”, said Smolović, emphasizing that wrong turns are also part of experience and can serve as valuable lessons, while failures are an inevitable part of any serious journey.
He highlighted the importance of such programmes as they allow young people to engage directly with decision-makers, experts, and leaders, gaining useful insights for their personal development. “I believe today’s youth are more educated, informed, and capable than we were at their age. The future of both Bijelo Polje and the entire country lies with them. Be persistent, don’t give up, and don’t be afraid to try again. Only effort, perseverance, and extra dedication can lead to real results, and the ultimate goal should be personal satisfaction in what you do”, Smolović added.
Representing the organizers, Željko Đukić presented the programme’s contents. “During the two days of working with young people, we discussed one of the most important life decisions – choosing a career. Right at the start, we noticed that over 80% of them see their future in public service, while interest in entrepreneurship was minimal. That motivated us to explore all career options in detail – from working in the public and private sectors to starting their own businesses”, he explained, adding that through theory, personal stories, and practical examples, they provided the youth with a broader perspective on the labor market and the importance of timely career planning.
“With the support of the EU, we addressed crucial topics – from in-demand professions to fostering entrepreneurial spirit. This workshop showed that young people need space for dialogue, reflection, and personal growth”, he concluded.
“I think it is extremely important for young people to focus on what they love and to explore different opportunities through education like this. That’s the only way to find the right path – whether it’s in public administration, the private sector, or starting a business. These programmes provide valuable support for shaping careers aligned with their interests and potential”, added professor Katarina Veličković.
Lazar Femić, one of the training participants, was pleased with the programme. “What I liked the most was that the sessions were relaxed and tailored to us – not strictly formal but motivating for us to engage. It was especially meaningful to have the chance to talk freely with the mayor and ask questions about our future. I plan to study economics and start my own business. This day confirmed that I am on the right track and gave me extra motivation to keep going”, he said.
“I was especially inspired by the mayor’s story. His journey to the current position showed me that a lot is possible with effort and vision. We also talked about the needs of young people in the local community. For example, we proposed opening a recreational space with additional content to attract young people”, said Šejla Halilović, another participant. “I’m planning a career in customs or logistics, and this workshop helped me take more confident steps in that direction”, she noted.
This training is part of the project “SYNERGY Montenegro – Strengthening Youth Networks and Empowering Resilient Groups and Young People”, implemented by CCE in partnership with NGO Multimedial Montenegro and the German Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, in cooperation with the Ministry of Sports and Youth, and financially supported by the European Union.
Nikola Đurašević, Programme Associate