Lejla Tinjic-Zaimovic, President and Co-founder of the Association of Business Women of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has dedicated her life to empowering women through connection, education, and collaboration. From moving to a new country and starting over, to creating a powerful platform that amplifies women’s voices and businesses, her story is one of resilience, community, and leadership. She is a true inspiration for our Humans of Fuzia community of 5M+ women and allies who believe in She for She and He for She.
Q: What inspired you to start your journey with the Association of Business Women of Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Lejla: The association began informally in 2016 when a group of successful Bosnian women met in Vienna. We realized the power of our shared experiences and decided to formalize the platform in 2017. Since then, we’ve focused on promoting women-owned businesses, hosting educational programs, and organizing networking events that connect women in Bosnia, Austria, and beyond.
Q: What challenges have you faced along the way?
Lejla: I prefer to see challenges as opportunities. Our association is built on volunteer work, so while balancing careers, families, and community service can be demanding, we do everything with full hearts. The response from our members and community keeps us motivated. Personally, my biggest challenge was moving to a new country—starting over, learning the language, finding work, and building a new network. It wasn’t easy, but it shaped me and taught me resilience.
Q: What milestones are you most proud of?
Lejla: Family always comes first—I’m proud of raising my children while building a life in a new country. Professionally, I’m proud that my husband and I could integrate into a new society, find opportunities, and create something meaningful from scratch. Founding the association and watching it grow alongside starting a new career in Austria are among my proudest achievements.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
Lejla: Women leaders are everywhere—in companies, communities, and governments. I believe leadership should not be categorized by gender; great leaders can be men or women. It’s about equality, and today we see real progress.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Lejla: Be daring. Invest in yourself, keep learning, and never hesitate to ask or demand what you deserve. Networking is powerful—surround yourself with people who inspire you and keep moving forward.
Q: What does success mean to you?
Lejla: Success is deeply personal. For me, it’s about constant growth and improvement, continuing to learn and stay true to yourself. At the end of the day, when all titles are stripped away, true success is being happy, balanced, and at peace.
“Success is a goal you set for yourself—it’s about growth, learning, and finding peace while staying true to who you are.” – Lejla Tinjic-Zaimovic
Lejla Tinjic Zaimovic | LinkedIn
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