Bambini Foundation Gathers Experts and Sports Teams to Combat Violence

Violence is a major social problem, harming children, youth, families, and communities. It appears in many forms, including physical, psychological, peer, family, and electronic violence. Prevention, early detection, and support are crucial. Fighting violence requires joint efforts from institutions, schools, families, and individuals. It also means building empathy, tolerance, and non-violent communication.

The Bambini Foundation organized an educational workshop in Neum on August 25, 2026. The workshop, titled "Safe School - Together Against Violence," focused on preventing violence and creating a safer environment for young people. It brought together sports clubs from Bosnia and Herzegovina and neighboring countries. Attendees included clubs like VK Sisak, YBL Budapest, VK KPK Vela Luka, Leotar Trebinje, Slavia Praha, and HVK Jadran Neum.

The program emphasized preventing peer and social media violence. It also highlighted the importance of protecting and supporting victims. Discussions covered non-violent communication, healthy relationships, empathy, and early recognition of risky behaviors. Support for single parents and socially vulnerable individuals was also addressed.

Several experts spoke at the workshop. These included Đemila Talić Gabriel, the founder of the Bambini Foundation, Tanja Marić, Marinko Martinović, Minela Bakamović, and Helena Tomas from HŠK Zrinjski.

Đemila Talić Gabriel founded Bambini because she believes no woman or child should live in fear. She saw the long-term impact of domestic violence. The Foundation aims to prevent violence through education, empower women and children, and connect the community in this fight. Bambini works to protect children, empower survivors, and end the cycle of domestic violence.

Helena Tomas, a football coach, defined violence in sports. This includes any behavior that harms participants, officials, or spectators. It covers physical aggression, verbal abuse, and psychological intimidation. Marinko Martinović, a kinesiologist, stated that institutions should guide and protect young people, not just punish them. He emphasized that juvenile delinquency is a social problem requiring joint effort and true action.