2024 BAPA Forum
Detroit, MI

Our 11th annual BAPA forum was held in Detroit, Michigan

from October 4-6, 2024.

Meet our panelists, scholarship recipients, and sponsors below!

Meet our 2024 Forum Panelists

Amina Osmanović

Amila Osmanović serves as the Vice President, Compensation Consultant at Huntington Bank. Amila has spent the last two decades honing her expertise in Human Resources function with a focus on Total Rewards Management. She earned her degree in Human Resources Management from Oakland University, is SHRM certified, and is currently pursuing Certified Compensation Professional Certification(CCP) from World at Work. Amila has spent the last decade in the Financial services industry supporting organizational growth through multiple Mergers and Acquisitions integrations.

In her spare time she enjoys spending quality time with her family. Amila is actively engaged in the Metro Detroit Bosnian community with the goal of promoting and preserving values and traditions that keep her Bosnian heritage alive. Furthermore, Amila is focused on bridging professional challenges faced by the Bosnian diaspora working in the United States.

Ibro Muharemović

Ibro Muharemović was appointed Continental's Head of Autonomous Mobility in North America, effective January 1, 2024. In this role, he spearheads the development of innovative autonomous driving technologies, driving the future of mobility. With a strong background in vehicle safety and dynamics, Ibro previously served as Head of Advanced Engineering for Continental North America, leading global projects in vehicle safety and automation. His career with Continental began in 2005, where he rose through the ranks, including international assignments in Germany.

Ibro moved to the U.S. in 1999 and earned his Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from Oakland University. Passionate about sports and outdoor activities, Ibro enjoys basketball, soccer, martial arts, and mountain biking. He recently hiked the Inca Trail in Peru and has traveled to over 37 countries. He currently resides in Romeo, Michigan, with his wife Indira and their two children, Liam and Amelia.

Dr. Jelena Arnautović, DO

Jelena Z. Arnautović, D.O., is a leading Interventional Cardiologist with a rich clinical and academic background. She holds a Bachelor of Nursing from Madonna University and a medical degree from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Her training includes internal medicine at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital, cardiology fellowship at Ascension Macomb Hospital, and interventional cardiology fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital. Dr. Arnautović is the Program Director for the Cardiology Fellowship at Ascension Macomb Hospital and a Clinical Associate Professor at MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine. She mentors through the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Intervention and is active in humanitarian efforts both locally and globally.

Originally from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, she supports the Bosnian community through the Bosnian American Medical Professionals Board and the Bosnian-Herzegovinian American Academy of Arts and Sciences. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures with family and friends.

Dr. Zlatan Čimzić, MD

Zlatan Čizmić, M.D., is a healthcare leader and entrepreneur currently pursuing his MBA with a concentration in Healthcare Management at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business. He is the founder and CEO of Optim U Health, a remote health optimization startup focused on innovative, data-driven healthcare solutions. Dr. Čizmić has a background in orthopedic surgery, with extensive experience in clinical research and medical consulting. He serves on the advisory board of the Migrant, Immigrant & Refugee Rights (MIRR) Alliance, where he contributes to strategic initiatives to support underserved communities. Additionally, Dr. Čizmić is actively working on an interest-free Islamic financing bond proposal with the State of Michigan to fund affordable housing for refugees and inner-city populations.

His work has been recognized with numerous academic and community awards, and he continues to contribute to healthcare advancements both domestically and internationally. In his free time, Dr. Čizmić enjoys traveling, competitive sports, and engaging in community service efforts.

Meet the 2024 Scholarship Recipients!

Bosana Scholarship Recipient

Imman Kajtazović

A Business Economics and Political Science student at the University of Richmond, Imman comes from Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Her research interests are female empowerment, sustainable development, and education in post-conflict societies, reflecting the contemporary economic and political culture in BiH. She looks forward to collaborating with the Bosnian-American community, recognizing the strength of fostering this partnership.

BAPA Scholarship Recipient

Mirnad Osmanović

A rising senior at Central Connecticut State University, Mirnad is pursuing a double major in Accounting and Finance. He is involved in both the Accounting and Finance honor societies at his school. Mirnad also has an upcoming internship at a Big 4 accounting firm and previous experience in the venture capital field. Post graduation, Mirnad plans to pursue a CPA license and gain vital knowledge to help further his accounting career.

BAPA Scholarship Recipient

Hannah Bagarić

A current graduate student at Michigan State University (MSU) pursuing a Master of Science in Marketing Research and Analytics, Hannah was previously a dual-enrolled student and earned her B.A. in Marketing at MSU this past December. Additionally, Hannah has a passion for competing in student case competitions and has had the opportunity to represent the Michigan State University International Business College in three different competitions across the country. Upon completing her Master's degree, Hannah hopes to specialize in both quantitative and qualitative marketing research at a marketing research agency, where she can positively contribute to amplifying the voices of consumers.

BAPA Scholarship Recipient

Naila Muhamedagić

Entering her 4th year as a Dental Hygiene (BSDH) student at Indiana University Fort Wayne, Naila has focused on research about the “Oral Health Crisis in Post-War Bosnia and Herzegovina” and is working to send dental aid packages to orphanages in the country. She is also a founder and coach for her local Bosnian “Folklor” Dance Group, where she teaches cultural dances to local Bosnian diaspora youth, achieving pivotal milestones as a team. After graduation and licensing boards, she plans to continue her education and obtain her Master’s in Dental Hygiene while working as a travel RDH, focusing on underserved areas to make a difference.

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BAPA Scholarship Recipient

Alem Hadžić

A second-year undergraduate student studying at Middlebury College, Alem is majoring in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and minoring in Psychology. He is an active member of the NCAA Division III Men’s Soccer team and volunteers in the emergency room at Porter Medical Center. Alem is involved in research through the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Scholars Program at his institution, focusing particularly on microbes present in maple sap. He plans to enter medical school after completing his undergraduate studies.

Our 2024 Forum Sponsors

Gold ($2,000)

Amir Ribić

HealthMarkets Insurance Agency

Amir Ribić specializes in Health and Medicare insurance, mainly within the local Bosnian community. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of insurance, Amir brings a personalized touch to every client interaction. His deep understanding of Health and Medicare plans ensures that each client receives the best coverage tailored to their unique needs. Outside of work, Amir enjoys spending time with his family, playing soccer, & being a part of his community which keeps him energized and engaged in delivering exceptional service. Visit HealthMarkets.com/aribic to learn more.

Metis Soft Tech is a global software development company that provides end-to-end technology and Digital Marketing solutions to businesses of all sizes. The company offers a range of services including software development, IT consulting, and digital transformation. Specializing in custom software development, cloud services, AI and machine learning, and quality assurance. Metis Soft Tech is known for its focus on delivering high-quality solutions through a combination of top talent, innovative methodologies, and advanced technology. With a strong presence in multiple countries, they cater to a broad spectrum of industries and aim to drive growth and efficiency for their clients through tailored technological solutions. To learn more visit metistech.com

Silver ($1,000)

The Hodžič Family

Hrustic Brothers Inc. is dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions in transportation, industrial construction supplies and concrete recycling. Founded in 2003, Hrustic Brothers Inc. has established itself as a trusted partner for construction businesses seeking reliable and efficient services in Northeast Florida. To learn more visit http://www.hrusticbrothers.com/

Bronze ($500)

NewCold Metal Construction started in 2000, as a company specializing in the assembly of pallet racks under the name Global Metal Construction. Our expertise in the installation of high-bay automated warehouses is recognized worldwide, and our mission is to work with clients to provide them with the best solutions in metal construction, whether it is installation, manufacturing or electromechanical solutions. In 2023, we took a crucial step by joining forces with the renowned Dutch company NewCold. This partnership marks a significant milestone that reflects our commitment to excellence in the industry. NewCold, one of the fastest growing advanced automated warehouse and cold chain logistics companies, shares our vision of providing the highest quality in the industry. This alignment of values laid the foundation for a fruitful partnership, and the result is a new name - NewCold Metal Construction. To learn more about our company, visit ncmc.ba.

Inclusive Movement for Bosnia and Herzegovina (IMBiH) is an all-volunteer, non-profit, and apolitical organization based in Washington DC. Their mission is to support the advancement of Bosnia and Herzegovina through entrepreneurship and innovation, cultural and humanitarian activities, and networking.

To learn more and join the movement, visit imbih.org.

Wide Transport Inc. was founded in 2013 by truckers for truckers, Wide Transport is a transportation company operating out of Chicago, IL. We excel in seamlessly integrating trucks with freight trains, and ocean carriers, providing exceptional domestic transportation services. Our combined core team experience spans more than 70 years of active transportation and logistic support. We help companies across the USA make their cargo arrive on time and safely, and we’re honored to do what we do. We’ve earned a reputation for integrity, complex capabilities, and personalized customer service. Visit https://www.widetransport.us to learn more.

The Bosnian-American Cultural Center “Behar” was founded in 1998 in Detroit, MI. We are proud of the fact that we have been operating continuously for more than 25 years, longer than any other similar organization in the United States.

"Behar" was registered as a non-profit in 2000, and has always been volunteer-led, while presenting a professional repertoire. Through folk dance, music, poetry and other programs, our participants learn about traditions, and work toward preserving the traditions of the people of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Sandžak, presenting their homeland in numerous competitions, multicultural celebrations and festivals in Detroit and around the country.

Today, over 200 youth aged 5-18 are part of Behar, led by 14 instructors and a small army of hardworking parents and friends. More than a thousand young people have passed through Behar's ranks, with some former participants now bringing their own children to Behar's practices and taking over the roles of choreographers and teachers.

Behar has space for all of those who carry Bosnia-Herzegovina in their heads, and who want to devote their time to Bosnian children, teaching them rich cultural traditions of the country of their parents and grandparents.

MerakSoul Music is a flavorful mixture of diverse songs from Balkan region and spicy Gypsy rhythms. The distinctive sound of MerakSoul is carried by great musicians and intensely felt vocals. The ability to fluidly blend various genres together results in a sound that is both original and energizing. MerakSoul brings quite a unique experience that does not leave anyone indifferent. www.meraksoul.com.

The Durić Family

2024 BAPA Forum Detroit, MI

Meet our 2024 Forum Panelists

Meet the 2024 Scholarship Recipients!

Our 2024 Forum Sponsors

2024 BAPA Forum
Detroit, MI