“Edna”, a Book About a Young Woman with Down Syndrome, Presented at the “Promenade of Culture”

July 16, 2026

“Edna”, a Book About a Young Woman with Down Syndrome, Presented at the “Promenade of Culture”

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The book “Edna”, an inspiring story based on real-life conversations with a young woman with Down syndrome, was presented at the “Promenade of Culture”, an event organized by the Federal Ministry of Culture and Sports. It is the first book in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region to feature conversations with a person with Down syndrome.

The book was compiled by the Federal Minister of Culture and Sports, Sanja Vlaisavljević, with the aim of permanently preserving a story that is not merely a biography, but a collection of dialogues and fascinating moments Edna creates through her daily actions—demonstrating that it is possible to push past any boundary, even those that seem insurmountable. The book conveys the message that the greatest changes occur when prejudice gives way to trust, support, and opportunity.

The presentation brought together Edna’s family and friends, as well as representatives from institutions, partner associations, and organizations dedicated to the care of people with intellectual disabilities. These included the “Oaza” Association, the “Life with Down Syndrome FBiH” Association, the Special Olympics of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Pazarić Institute, the “Hand of Support Hadžići” Association, and the “Be My Friend Ilijaš” Association.

Addressing the attendees, Minister Vlaisavljević emphasized that the book “Edna” is much more than just a book; it is a motivational story that will give everyone who reads it the strength to never give up. Through the pages of the book is told the story of a girl who forces adults to at least for a moment be the child they lost in themselves and to always keep that magical wonder at the world. The book teaches us that a sincere smile is sometimes more valuable than all the titles and functions.

The book will also be presented at the European meeting of Special Olympics athletes as motivation to never give up.

During the program, the graduates of the first generation of the Interdisciplinary professional study, completed by people with intellectual disabilities, were also presented.