Ana Matijević: “The decision to enroll in university was entirely logical, considering that I had already shown an affinity for music and languages as a child. However, my second love ultimately prevailed,” said Ana Matijević, a first-year student in the double major undergraduate program of Italian Language and Literature and German Language and Literature. In addition to studying, Ana is also involved in volunteer work with the organization Mary's Meals, is a member of the Mokro Cultural Association (KUD), and has competed in the contest for the most beautiful Croatian woman in traditional costume outside the borders of Croatia.
Encouraged by her colleagues, she participated in the contest for the most beautiful Croatian woman in traditional costume. “It’s a beautiful memory for a lifetime, I would say, and an opportunity that comes once in a lifetime. The mere fact that you have the chance to meet girls from all over the world in five days, learn about their cultures and customs, and at the same time find a common language and function as one without any ill intentions. It's hard to describe that feeling,” she said.
The Mokro Cultural Association was founded in 2000 and is currently active in three sections: singing, dancing, and drama. It has achieved a lot of success both in Bosnia and Herzegovina and abroad. Over 24 years of operation, the association has organized numerous cultural events and full-length concerts, including 13 events titled “On the Foundations of Our Basilica” and three full-length concerts, with hopes for a fourth. They can also boast a film in which Ana participated, titled “Work, Love, Marry,” which depicts the customs of courtship and wedding traditions.
She participates in the humanitarian organization Mary’s Meals, whose goal is to provide school meals in the poorest countries of the world, giving children the energy for better concentration and participation in class.
A meal for one child for an entire year costs 22 euros. “Volunteering is a special kind of joy, and even greater when you know that it is being recorded somewhere up above. What is special about it is the conversations with people from all over the world in different languages about the situations they are in, and at the same time, the opportunity and way to broaden your horizons. Volunteering is an example of how to be grateful for what we have. When you see and try what these children eat, you start to be less picky about food and appreciate what you already have. And also keep in mind that somewhere under the same sky, someone just wants a piece of their sky.”
Regarding the future, her primary goal is to improve her knowledge, graduate from university, and continue volunteering and helping others. “Then continue with God’s help,” said Ana.
Viktorija Šego
AI-translated
