Now that I am back in New York and my fellowship has ended, I can reflect a bit on my life and work in Tuzla. I am truly grateful for having the opportunity to work for LSN BiH. I have left behind so many wonderful people who have inspired me in innumerable ways.

They have taught me a great deal about the experience of a disabled survivor. I know that there is still a great deal of work to do in order to advance the rights of persons with disabilities. My AP fellowship has made me realize that there is a critical role that my legal education can play in advancing their rights.

Bosnia and its people have been extremely kind to me. I will cherish the many wonderful memories that I had in beautiful Sarajevo, Mostar and Tuzla. It is my hope that all the victims of the bloody and brutal war will eventually find peace and justice in their hearts and lives.

My work at LSN BiH has shown me what it takes for a person to somehow find courage within themselves after a traumatic event to become a survivor, and then help others live as one too. If the phenomenal artists I met at the Balkana Art Colony can rise above their disability and accomplish reconciliation at some level within their communities, then there is still hope that this whole nation will eventually get there as well.

It is people like Nermina that made me realize that this is indeed possible, despite all the bickering and inflammatory statements that are constantly made by Bosnia’s politicians – some of whom are clearly intent on further dividing the people. Survivors who can transform their own lives can transform a whole nation.

I wish everyone at LSN BiH all the best! I’m sure that this is not the last time that Tuzla will see me. Thank you everyone for following my work and showing your interest!