Jovana

Jovana is 36 years old. She is married and has two children. She works as a hotel manager.

The Serbia that Jovana envisions for the future is a country with high standards.

‘I wish that the quality of life would not just be a priority for individual citizens but a characteristic of our nation. Do I hope this will happen during my lifetime? No. Why? Because throughout my life, from childhood, I have witnessed many crises, both national and international, including hyperinflation and bombing. I think today’s parents are in a difficult position, as they are generally young people caught up in everything that is going on in their lives — fighting for survival, securing their jobs, and finding additional work. This means that they aren’t able to spend enough time with their children.’

Since she is in constant contact with foreigners through her work, Jovana has formed a new image of her own people. ‘Our people are very good. They are welcoming, compassionate, bold, emotional, honest, and temperamental. While other countries may have better standards or legal systems, I hear about how human relations are different elsewhere. It’s so heartwarming for foreigners to feel welcomed and accepted here immediately, how easily they make friends. I can say I am very proud of our country and our people.’

On the other hand, what concerns Jovana is that so many people are despondent. ‘I feel sad when I encounter people who are despondent. It’s difficult to live here. I empathize with the pain of someone struggling in their everyday life. This differs from person to person, depending on their persistence, whether they found a way to get through, or if they had any luck along the way.’

Jovana loves her job. She is aware that she is both good and bad at it in different situations. She acknowledges making many good decisions but sometimes making bad ones too. She considers herself a patriot and is happy that she has stayed in the country where she was born and which she loves. She appreciates the significance of laughter and family in Serbia.

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