Serbia’s Eurovision Dreams Rest With Moje 3
Three young women will carry the Eurovision dreams of Serbia when they step onto the stage in Sweden, next month. Sara, Nevena and Mirna, collectively known as Moje 3, were overwhelmingly chosen by public vote to represent their country at the Eurovision Song Contest 2013 in Malmö, on 18 May (21:00 CET).
For Mirna, Nevana and Sara, their dream to compete at the Eurovision Song Contest was within sight when they each competed at the First Voice of Serbia (Prvi glas Srbije), a TV talent show. Producers noted a special chemistry between the three, as Sara explained. “We met a few months ago during this singing contest, as super-finalists,’ she said. “The idea to become a group actually began after the show. We sang a few songs together and our team realised that we are sounding great together and arranged for a song to be written for us (Ljubav Je Svuda). Even if we are really different in so many ways, it was clear that we are an amazing combination.”
Belgrade Honours Srdjan Aleksić, A Bosnian Serb Whose Bravery Inspired New Film
Bad deeds can be recalled so easily, while the humane acts of individuals can be often forgotten. But even in the darkest hours of war, when so much pain and anguish is felt by all sides, the shining bravery of one young man can be an inspiration to so many.
Twenty years ago, soldiers from the Army of Republika Srpska (VRS) beat to death a young Bosnian Serb Srdjan Aleksić, who was shielding his Muslim friend. Since his brutal killing, Srdjan has been hailed as a hero in towns across the Balkans.
This month, the story of the amateur actor and promising sports star has taken a fresh turn, as a Serbian film based on his life receives critical acclaim and standing ovations at festival screenings, and Belgrade officials bow to people pressure and agree to name a city street in Srdjan’s honour.
Strong Family Bonds Encourage Young Serb Luka Raco to Chase his Dreams
Loving parents and a strong family upbringing have encouraged Luka Raco to follow his dreams. As testament to the positive influence of his family, Luka’s dreams have led him to Bangkok, where he will represent Serbia at the Mister International contest, this weekend. “I can proudly say that I have amazing parents and we are a very loving family,’ Luka told Wild Rooster.
“Without their help and good will I couldn’t achieve anything. My father is the greatest man I know. He is a man who does everything for his family. He is the man I would like to become.”
Luka is an only child who lives at home with his parents, Rista and Radmila. Thoughts of them will be with Luka when he competes on Saturday night. “When I walk out at the final, I will think about my family, my friends and try to picture the look on their faces, their happiness for me. That will motivate me to do my best,’ he said.
Balkan Manhood Put to the Test at Two International Contests
Balkan manhood will be put to the test when representatives from five ex-YU states will take to the stage in two international contests. While the Balkans has long been well known for its wealth of female beauty, the fine young men of the region sometimes feel that they have been overlooked somewhat. That could all change, this weekend, as the world is treated to not one but two showcases for modern masculinity.
Vanja Grgec (Croatia) and Zlatan Duratovic (Bosnia) will compete in the Mr World contest, which is taking place in Kent, the garden of England. In a series of challenges, the search for the world’s most desirable man has seen national representatives from 48 countries tackling mud-caked sporting trials, as well as revealing their talents for singing, dance and martial arts. All the fun will come to a head on 24 November, when the young men will take to a stage for the final judging.