News - 11.04.2025

Integration, Opportunity, and Empowerment – A Personal Story of an Immigrant in Iceland

When I moved to Iceland in 1996 from Bosnia and Herzegovina, I was faced with a new and unfamiliar reality. The language was unlike anything I had known, the society followed invisible rules that I had to learn, and the weather called for a new kind of patience. But despite it all, I quickly felt warmth – and a community that gave me the opportunity to grow and rediscover myself.

What had the greatest impact on my adaptation was not necessarily education, but the fact that I learned Icelandic with sincerity and intensity – and did so in record time. The language opened doors for me, not only to understand, but to belong. At the same time, I worked systematically on building a network through social work, volunteering, and sports. These connections, the togetherness, and the trust they created became the foundation of my integration.

Later, I completed a degree in political science and public administration and began working within the public system – including as the leader of an international team in the Welfare Department of the City of Reykjavík and as a project manager for municipalities. That experience, along with my own journey as an immigrant, became invaluable in supporting others in similar situations. I also founded IZO Consulting, a company that provides institutions and businesses with advice on multiculturalism, refugees, and inclusion – all with the goal of enhancing cultural sensitivity and recognizing the strengths in diversity.

Social participation has always been an inseparable part of me. I was among the founders of the Keflavík Volleyball Club, which became a platform for women of diverse backgrounds to come together through play and movement. I actively participated in politics, including as a deputy municipal representative and co-founder of two political parties in Suðurnes – with the aim of ensuring that everyone’s voices are heard.

As a specialist at the City of Reykjavík, I led the Ambassador project, which strengthens connections between immigrants and the service system by training individuals of foreign origin to serve as bridges between the community and the city. I have also worked with the organizations Her Voice and FKA to promote the position of women of foreign origin in the labor market, democracy, and leadership roles.

Today, I work with the Red Cross in Iceland, where I manage projects aimed at strengthening preparedness, resilience, and mental well-being in communities that have experienced trauma and natural disasters. In all my work, I have learned that equality is not just something written on paper – but a living subject that requires genuine participation, listening, and trust.

I have also encountered prejudice – often having to prove myself more than others to get the same opportunities. That has taught me the importance of perseverance, of standing by myself and those who are not always able to shine. Sometimes this struggle has triggered negative reactions, but it has only strengthened my belief that the conversation is necessary – and that change does not happen in silence.

I want to encourage other immigrants to step forward. Don’t be afraid to let your voice be heard, to take part, to take up space. Our society becomes stronger and richer when more people are allowed to thrive. You have your place – and it matters that you use it.

Jasmina Vajzovic Crnac