Interview with Zerina Mulaosmanović Said
Ajla Dizdarevic
Zerina Mulaosmanović Said received a BAPA scholarship in 2021. She earned a Master of Social Work from St. Mary's University of Minnesota and a Bachelor of Arts in German studies from Wayne State University. She has worked in mental health settings as a patient care coordinator, case manager, and clinical provider, offering individual therapy as part of her MSW training. After completing her degree, she transitioned into a program manager role at a local nonprofit, overseeing initiatives that directly support refugee and immigrant communities in Minnesota.
How did you find out about BAPA and its scholarship offerings?
I first heard about BAPA on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic. A friend of mine had reposted the scholarship announcement and encouraged me to apply. She had attended one of BAPA’s forums in the past and spoke highly of the organization, which motivated me to look into it further and submit my application.
How did BAPA's scholarship support you?
The BAPA scholarship made a meaningful difference in my academic journey. It allowed me to pay my student loan debt, helping me avoid additional interest. It also let me transition from full-time to part-time work, which gave me the flexibility to fully engage in my studies, practicum, and extracurricular activities. I took on leadership roles, joining the Student Advisory Council and serving on the BAPA board. These experiences further enriched my education, strengthened my leadership abilities, and deepened my connection to the Bosnian community
What was your experience like at BAPA's 2021 Annual Forum?
The Seattle forum will always hold a special place in my heart, not only because it was my first forum, but because there was such a unique energy that weekend. I met some amazing people I’m still friends with to this day. There was an overwhelming sense of belonging; it felt incredibly meaningful to be surrounded by others who, like me, cared deeply about Bosnia, preserving our culture, giving back, and lifting each other up. Hearing success stories from community members and the impact people made was inspiring.
One of the most memorable moments actually happened outside the formal sessions. I gathered with other forum attendees on the rooftop of one of the attendees’ homes, talking, laughing, and dancing kolo with the Seattle skyline in the background. I had just met most of the people there, but I felt at home with them. There was this shared understanding, a closeness that came from having similar values and a deep appreciation for our roots.
At the actual forum, I gave a presentation titled “The Importance of Culture and Language & How to Preserve It.” I focused on the relationship between culture and language, how that connection shapes identity, and the importance of preserving both. My research explored language retention across generations, looking at key factors that support multi-generational language use and the practical methods bilingual parents can use to help preserve their native language at home.
How did your experience with BAPA develop your academic and/or career goals?
My experience with BAPA prompted me to think more intentionally about how I can use my education and career to give back to our community. It’s something that’s always been important to me, but BAPA helped bring even more clarity and inspiration to that goal. As we traveled to different cities and met people working in their own communities, it sparked a lot of ideas. That said, I’m still in the exploration phase with my ideas, as I made the intentional decision to step back from my career this past year to focus on my new role as a mom.
What advice do you have for other Bosnian students who are interested in applying for the scholarship?
I would encourage all students to apply, especially those who feel a strong connection to our community. The financial support is meaningful, of course, but the real value lies in the experiences, relationships, and sense of community that come with it. Having the chance to research a topic and present is a great way to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and build confidence in public speaking. Attending the forum and connecting with others from across the country provides an opportunity to meet new friends, mentors, and maybe even a lifelong partner. I met my husband at the BiH Diasporic Conference, so it can happen!
I’ll end by saying this: we all have something to offer, and the BAPA scholarship gives students the space to discover what that is. It’s a meaningful opportunity to explore your purpose and how that purpose connects to your roots. Even if you’re unsure of exactly what you can contribute, the application process itself is reflective and worthwhile since it encourages you to think deeply about who you are, where you come from, and where you want to go, not just for yourself, but for the future of Bosnia and our community.
