In-depth article: Step out of the shadows: How Livno sparked dialogue and opportunities for women in the labour market

On 29 October 2025, the sports hall of the Secondary Economics School in Livno was transformed into a space of professional possibilities. That day, the first Job Fair of the Herzeg-Bosnian County took place under the slogan “Step Out of the Shadows.” But this was not just any job fair: it was a moment of dialogue, empowerment, and change, especially for women who often face invisible barriers in the labour market.

The event was organised by the Employment Office of the Herzeg-Bosnian County as part of the WIN awareness-raising campaign, moving beyond its usual administrative role to act as a direct bridge between the community and the labour market. The fair was the culmination of months of activities designed to highlight women’s contributions to the local economy and open a conversation about the challenges they face. Earlier in the year, the Employment Office and the Ministry of Economy marked International Women’s Day with a social media campaign celebrating local women, the inspiring heroines of daily life, followed by a roundtable discussion to reflect on women’s position in the labour market and introduce the Ministry’s new subsidy measures developed within the WIN project.

When the hall doors opened, participants arrived from all corners of the county, with organised transportation ensuring access even for those from remote rural communities. Among the numerous visitors were also women returning to the workforce, long-term unemployed individuals, as well as high school students beginning to explore their career paths. From early morning, the hall buzzed with curiosity, anticipation, and energy – soon, these visitors became active participants in discussions and exchanges.

The fair brought together over 30 employers offering 123 job opportunities, yet its purpose went beyond employment alone. The panel discussion, “Women – An Untapped Potential in the Labour Market,” opened a critical dialogue between institutions, employers, and experts about structural barriers and possible solutions. Workshops on freelancing and professional empowerment provided local women with practical tools and a space for confidence-building.

The “shadows” referred to in the campaign were not just the lack of job openings; they were limited access to information, the constraints of social expectations, the psychological burden of unemployment, and perhaps most importantly, the unaddressed challenges present in every society. By addressing these issues through targeted measures – from free transport to interactive workshops and discussions – the Employment Office demonstrated that inclusion requires concrete, organised action.

The results were tangible: 161 job applications submitted and at least 11 new employments within the first month. Yet the true impact goes beyond numbers: increased visibility for women, strengthened confidence among participants, new professional connections, and a sparked conversation about how the local community can collectively address barriers in the labour market.

The Livno Job Fair showed that when awareness-raising activities are coordinated and combined with genuine community engagement, they can produce both immediate results and long-lasting effects. “Step Out of the Shadows” was more than a slogan – it was a call to action for the entire community.