As organisations face increasing complexity and uncertainty, the need for strong, diverse leadership has never been clearer. The Women on Boards Adria Board Readiness Programme in Belgrade brought together women leaders ready to engage seriously with the responsibilities of leadership and board governance.
“The goal of WOBA and the Board Readiness Programme is to work with women on recognising and building leadership potential within themselves and their peers,” said Nevena Dičić Kostić, Head of Programmes at Women on Boards Adria. “Through knowledge sharing and networking, we are providing a platform of mutual support. We’re grateful to our participants for recognising the value of that.”
The first day explored leadership at an operational and strategic level, examining how influence is built and how leaders guide teams through change. Maida Zahirović Salom spoke about authentic leadership, emphasising emotional intelligence, credibility, and consistency as foundations of trust. Sanela Pašić addressed strategic leadership, focusing on negotiation, conflict resolution, and leading organisational change with clarity and purpose.
“Leadership isn’t about being agreeable — it’s about being effective,” said Maida Zahirović Salom. “If you want impact, you must be willing to take risks, stand by difficult decisions, and lead through uncertainty. Theory matters, but only if you turn it into practice every day.”
Reflecting on the broader context, Đina Popović, Director and Legal Representative of Women on Boards Adria, emphasised the importance of coordinated action. “WOBA is working with both governments and companies to build an environment that supports women’s leadership,” she said. “This is a multi-layered task that requires coherent organisational practices as well as an enabling legislative framework. When organisations intentionally prepare women for leadership and board roles, they strengthen their own future.”
The second day in Belgrade took participants deeper into the realities of board governance. Discussions focused on how boards think, decide, and lead responsibly in complex and evolving environments. Katarina Đulić spoke about strategy oversight, risk governance, ESG expectations, board independence, and crisis readiness, drawing on practical governance experience. The programme also addressed the personal dimension of leadership. Mia Popić explored emotional agility, resilience, and confidence under pressure, while Ognen Janeski worked with participants on public presence and communication, focusing on how leaders show up in high-visibility settings.
“Boards create value when they operate with purpose and discipline,” said Katarina Đulić. “Governance is not a checklist — it’s a practice that requires judgment, integrity, and a long-term view.”
The Belgrade sessions reinforced what experience and research continue to show: leadership development is most effective when it combines skill-building, reflection, and strong peer connection. The Board Readiness Programme continues to build that foundation, supporting women leaders as they prepare to step into boardrooms with confidence, capability, and purpose.
