A very warm welcome to Alma Babic our Bosnia & Herzwgovina coordinator

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Tell us about your work/role with SOL;

I have been actively with SOL, working as a coordinator and promoting its programmes among students and parents in my region since 2025. My role includes organising student groups, guiding families through the application process, and ensuring that participants are well prepared for their experience abroad. I also support communication between SOL and local partners, helping to expand the network and make programmes accessible to more young learners. Today, my focus is on reaching as many students and teachers from Bosnia and Herzegovina as possible and giving them the opportunity to experience SOL programmes in Devon.

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What, or who, was your first encounter with SOL?

My first experience with SOL was at the teachers' Retreat in Karlovci in August 2024. It was an inspiring experience where I had the opportunity to meet colleagues from other countries and truly understand the mission of SOL. I genuinely enjoyed every aspect of the programme, the learning, the atmosphere, and the people. After that, I became closer to Sanja, the European Manager, who encouraged me to try bringing a group of students to Devon. I did that in July 2025, and it was a wonderful experience. Following that I was offered the opportunity to become part of the SOL team, which I gladly accepted.

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What do you love about SOL?

What I appreciate most about SOL is the authentic experience it provides. It is not just about learning English, it is about living the language. Students become part of a family, experience a different culture, and build confidence in communication. For students from the Balkans, this experience is especially meaningful. they meet peers from different countries, break down stereotypes, and realise how much they have in common. Watching them grow, become more open, and form lasting friendships is truly inspiring.

Where and what direction would you like to see SOL take in the future?

I would like to see SOL continue to grow and become more present in schools, ideally being included in annual school programmes across Europe. I believe SOL has the potential to become a recognised part of students' journeys, not just an additional opportunity. It would also be wonderful to see SOL expand its programmes to welcome adult learners of English, giving more people the chance to experience this unique way of learning and cultural exchange.

When your not supporting SOL, what do you do?

I have been teaching English since 2002, and throughout these years I have remained actively involved in the teaching community, always looking for ways to offer my students more than just classroom learning. I organise educational workshops and projects for children, and I am engaged in initiatives that promote language learning and creative development. Alongside teaching, I coordinate activities, work closely with parents, and continuously explore new opportunities to enrich my students' educational experience. I am also a proud mum of twin boys, and I hope to bring them to Devon one day to experience SOL themselves.

Tell us something interesting about your country we may not know?

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of rich cultural diversity, natural beauty, and strong traditions. Within a small geographical area, you can experience different climates, cuisines and historical influences. what makes it truly special is the warmth and hospitality of the people, visitors often say they feel at home very quickly.

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