FEBA hosts Annual Holiday Getaway
The weekend was outlined with programs geared towards introducing the organization to participants as well as allowing for a relaxed, light environment, with optional activities.
A new generation has emerged and their paths crossed at The Inn at Pocono Manor this holiday season. Walking through the lobby, sounds of conversations, stories and laughter echoed into the night. Many young people stayed up late catching up with friends as well as meeting new people.
Zerina Dervisevic, a student at Suffolk University, spoke of her experience. “I think the FEBA Poconos Holiday Getaway gave us an opportunity to share our summer experiences. Everyone seemed enthusiastic to get the chance to socialize with old and new friends that they met through their travels or partaking in the International Summer Camp. Also I think by sharing our unforgettable experiences we were to spark the interest of the others who have yet to take part of all these fun programs.”
Languages from all over the Balkans filled the halls of the hotel throughout the weekend.
Many of the participants agree that they have met people they will have connections with for a long time.
“Any type of event that unites the Balkan youth in a positive and energizing atmosphere is proof we are headed in the right direction towards bettering the community. FEBA's 2011 Annual Holiday Getaway provided interaction between individuals looking to achieve positive goals, while creating networking relationships and mutual respect to last a lifetime.” Medina Zaga, member of the FEBA business council, said.
Participants included students who attended the summer internships abroad, teach and travel programs and summer camps that FEBA offered in the past year. They spoke to audience of their experiences while sharing common goals and ideas.
Many people who came to the getaway were able to catch up with people they met during past FEBA events and activities. People from around the East Coast came to spend their weekend in the Poconos.
“I loved the event because I got to meet so many great people, people who are willing to go out of their way and help the Balkan American youth succeed in all aspects of their lives.” Mirnes Osmanovic, a International Relations and Politics student of the University of North Florida, said.
The event brought together people from different ethnic backgrounds within the Balkans, something that no organization in the United States has done before.
Many participants saw this as something new and positive, as well as a milestone for the Balkan American community.
“No matter what our faults and flaws may be, I am proud of our community. This workshop served as an inspiration to me. Seeing so many young, talented individuals working together for a great cause.” Alma Begic, a student at Syracuse University, said.
FEBA's event was mainly conducted and controlled by a network of young Balkan American individuals who prove to be passionate and committed to establishing a stronger community and a wider connection among youth from the Balkan background.
The two day event drew people not only within the borders of the US, but also members from surrounding countries like Canada.
A FEBA representative from Ontario, Hadis Fetic, said that the event did not disappoint by any means. He believes that the event, which saw well over 250 young people from around the East Coast, gave today's generation something that previous ones did not have, and that is a chance to meet and network with people with similar backgrounds, goals and aspirations.
FEBA's Holiday Getaway in the Poconos welcomed a large group of young ambitious people and many accomplished individuals. As they set out into the coming new year, they look to advance and conquer future goals that more and more, become a unified Balkan approach.
More News
- Argentine train slams into station, killing 49
- American woman among two journalists killed in Syria
- Greece bailout wards off Europe meltdown
- Turkish, Chinese businessmen sign agreements worth $4.3 bln
- Italy: Divers find 4 more bodies in ship wreckage
- Strauss-Kahn freed after French police questioning
- Photo exhibition on Khojaly tragedy opens in Baku
- Leaders meet in UK over fragile Somalia's future
- Monitoring of Muslim students sparks outrage
- Going Green For Funerals
