I am Teodora Milosavljević (23) from Niš. I grew up in Knjaževac and completed the economics program at the Technical School there. Currently, I am in the final year of Communication and Public Relations studies at the Faculty of Philosophy in Niš, and I have been a student mentor for two terms. I plan to continue my education focusing on democracy and human rights, with a particular interest in women’s rights. During my studies, I have participated in numerous exchanges, trainings, and seminars covering journalism, media, democracy, peace, feminism, and activism. I would highlight my work in the Niš Human Rights Committee, where I conducted public opinion research in southern Serbian cities about the treatment people received in social welfare institutions and city administrations, with the research results delivered to decision-makers to influence local public policies. At the Girls’ Center (Serbian: Centar za devojke), I organize street performances such as the Women’s Cemetery to raise awareness about femicide, and actions addressing violence against women, human trafficking, cancer prevention, and gender-sensitive language. Thanks to these actions, many women have reached out to the Girls’ Center, taking the first step in combating violence. Through Heartefact’s project, I aim to engage in alternative education focusing on gender relations. My impression is that as a society, we mostly deal with the consequences rather than the roots of gender-based violence issues. I see the solution in better education and working with boys and girls from the earliest ages, and my vision is to establish a Boys’ Center where I would work towards creating a society without violence.
