Belgrade, November 28, 2025 — The Youth with Disabilities Forum (YDF) celebrated two decades of work with a special event at the Sava Center, bringing together partners, institutions, companies, donors, volunteers, and service users who have contributed to the organization’s growth over the years. Under the slogan “20 Years of Support, Trust, and Change,” the event was held in an atmosphere of warmth, gratitude, and solidarity.
The program opened with communications expert Marija Simojlović, who emphasized that for more than two decades, YDF has been building a more inclusive society through advocacy, education, and support for young people with disabilities. The first speaker was Tijana Koprivica, Director of Sustainability at Delta Holding—the first company to establish a strategic partnership with YDF back in 2008. She was followed by Jovana Kostić from the City of Belgrade’s Secretariat for Social Protection, who highlighted over 15 years of continuous institutional support.
The heart of the event featured personal stories from those who shaped the Forum’s journey. Speakers included:
- Željko Ilić and Peđa Jeličić, YDF founders, who reflected on the beginnings, motivations, and courage that sparked the creation of the organization;
- Jovana Krivokuća-Milovanović, YDF Executive Director, who spoke about the people, teams, and systemic changes born from partnerships and collaboration;
- Slađana Lević, Program Director, who presented YDF’s achievements over the past 20 years and projects that are redefining inclusion;
- Ena Todorović and Miloš Radovanović, program beneficiaries, who shared their personal and professional growth stories, emphasizing how YDF programs opened new doors and changed their life paths.
After these inspiring stories, guests enjoyed a video montage titled “Our 20 Years,” showcasing the organization’s evolution, partners, and defining moments through archival footage and photographs.
The closing segment highlighted YDF’s most impactful initiatives, including:
- Career Center for Persons with Disabilities
- Network of Employer for Employment of Persons with Disabilities
- Portal for employing persons with disabilities
- Academy for Business Skills for Women with Disabilities
- Internship Program for Youth with Disabilities
along with numerous trainings, workshops, and courses.
The event concluded with remarks from the YDF team and a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony, reinforcing the message that “Change is born from support, trust, and unity”—principles that have guided YDF for 20 years.
In the foyer, guests enjoyed music and refreshments and had the opportunity to leave messages on the interactive wall “YDF: 20 Years Together.”
