Last night, in the beautiful surroundings of Jevremovac Botanical Garden, we marked World Refugee Day – through art, song, dance, and togetherness.
This event was an opportunity to gather around the values we share: solidarity, empathy, and openness to others. The Botanical Garden was not chosen by chance, but with intention. Surrounded by plants from all over the world, growing together and creating a rich, harmonious ecosystem, we were reminded of an important truth: People on the move, like plants, carry within them the strength to take root, even far from home. In a society that knows how to recognize the value of diversity, everyone can find their place.
Our beneficiaries, people from different parts of the world, shared their paintings, handmade crafts, songs, and dance performances, created with honesty and hope. Their art became a bridge between stories, identities, and community.
Among those who shared their talents were Reza, who exhibited his paintings; Sami, who presented dresses he designs; and Olga and Tatiana, who showcased handcrafted dolls. Marina brought joy through her songs, while children from the shelter for unaccompanied minors recited verses that deeply moved all who were present. Aleksei introduced the educational toys he creates, Viktoriia delighted us with handmade sweets, and Nadezhda shared her story and emotion through visual art and a beautiful dance performance. Each of them, through their unique expression, offered a glimpse into their personal stories, their strength, and their vision for the future. Their creativity reminded us that art knows no borders, and that in all its forms, it builds bridges between people.
We thank everyone whose presence and support made this event so special. Your presence was more than symbolic, it was a message that in Serbia, there is space for dialogue, for diversity, and for new beginnings.
At a time when millions of people around the world are forced to leave their homes, it is our shared responsibility to build a society that doesn’t look away – but reaches out. Serbia is not just a point on the transit map, but a home to many who are trying to rediscover safety, dignity, and meaning.
Finally, we owe great thanks to the administration of the Jevremovac Botanical Garden in Belgrade, which hosted this event and thus helped ensure that, surrounded by natural wealth and diversity, everyone felt welcome in our city.
In a world that so often closes itself off, art opens space for dialogue. And every hand extended in support helps change the story.
