Building resilience through entrepreneurship: The story of Ljiljana Matković

Ljiljana Matković is a long-standing entrepreneur from Loznica and the owner and director of EKO TIM Ltd. Loznica, a company specializing in pest control and hygiene services. With more than 30 years of experience in private business, she has built a company that today provides services to over 500 clients in the fields of communal hygiene and agriculture.

Her entrepreneurial journey began under extremely challenging circumstances. At the time, she was starting from scratch in a difficult socio-economic environment, while also facing a deeply personal challenge-having arrived in Loznica as a refugee from Sarajevo. Determined to rebuild her life, she had to create new opportunities for herself and secure a livelihood for her family.

Over the years, EKO TIM Ltd. gradually expanded from a small number of clients to a recognized and trusted company across the region of Western Serbia. One of the most significant turning points in the company’s development came during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a business operating in disinfection, pest control, and sanitation, the company was expected to respond quickly and effectively to the crisis. Through adaptability, continuous learning, and experience, Ljiljana and her team successfully overcame this challenge.

Another important step forward was the introduction of digitalization into the company’s operations. By implementing the PestScan platform, EKO TIM reduced extensive paperwork and improved efficiency, especially in meeting strict standards required in industries such as food production and processing. This innovation allowed the company to become more competitive, responsive, and better aligned with modern market demands.

As a woman entrepreneur in a smaller community, Ljiljana also faced prejudice and systemic barriers, particularly in the early years of her career. At a time when there were no financial incentives, support programs, or a favorable environment for women in business, she had to rely entirely on her own initiative and perseverance. Although such challenges have not completely disappeared, she notes that attitudes are gradually changing.

Ljiljana emphasizes that entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in contributing to the economy and improving quality of life, both locally and nationally. She also highlights the importance of networking and mutual support among women entrepreneurs, seeing it as a key factor in overcoming stereotypes and strengthening their position in society.

Reflecting on the past decades, she recognizes significant progress compared to the 1990s. With the rise of the internet, social media, and digital tools, today’s environment offers more opportunities and visibility for women entrepreneurs, making it easier for them to develop and promote their businesses.

Through her story, Ljiljana Matković represents resilience, determination, and the strength required to build a successful business despite adversity. Her journey serves as an inspiration for future generations of women entrepreneurs in Loznica and beyond.

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