Montenegrin amateur photographer Marija Šoškić Popović has won second prize in the regional EU4Green photo competition, earning recognition for her striking photo series that highlights the beauty of Mount Zeletin as well as the importance of biodiversity and natural resources in Montenegro.
The award was presented at the official ceremony and exhibition opening at Europe House in Podgorica, where the most inspiring works of photographers from across the Western Balkans were showcased and celebrated.
Marija’s series stands out for its powerful story about Montenegro’s nature, forests, and indigenous plant species. Each frame reflects the thriving biodiversity that flourishes when left untouched – from ancient pines to quietly blooming flowers. Taken together, the photographs remind us that protecting forests and habitats lies at the heart of preserving the balance between people and nature, safeguarding the landscapes we grew up with and ensuring they are passed on to future generations.
The ceremony was attended by representatives of the European Union, Austria, national institutions, project partners, media, and citizens. Welcoming speeches were given by Christian Steiner, Austrian Ambassador to Montenegro; Paolo Londero, Press, Culture, and Public Relations Attaché at the EU Delegation to Montenegro; and Laura Hohoff, EU4Green Project Leader, all emphasising the importance of regional cooperation and citizen engagement in environmental protection.
In his address, Ambassador Steiner underlined:
“Through the Austrian Development Agency, Austria is proud to contribute to the EU4Green project, funded by the European Union. Together with our partners in the Western Balkans, we are working to advance the Green Agenda, strengthen regional cooperation, and promote sustainable solutions. This exhibition is a wonderful example of how creativity and environmental awareness can come together in harmony. The photographs not only portray the natural beauty of the Western Balkans but also reveal the enormous potential it offers in tourism, culture, art, and development – provided there is commitment to protecting and preserving it for future generations.”
Paolo Londero, representative of the EU Delegation to Montenegro, stated:
“The European Union is committed to supporting the region on its path towards a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future. Through the EU Green Agenda and initiatives such as EU4Green, we are working together to advance decarbonisation, reduce pollution, and promote the circular economy. The photographs we are celebrating today remind us that real change happens on the ground and that every action counts. These images not only capture the beauty of nature but also the determination of people across the Western Balkans to protect it.”
“This exhibition is not only a celebration of creativity but also a powerful reminder that the Western Balkans is full of inspiring green examples. By sharing these stories, we aim to motivate others to engage in joint efforts towards a sustainable future,” said Laura Hohoff, EU4Green Project Leader.
During her address, she also stated:
“To quote the famous writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry: If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood and assign them tasks, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.”
Alongside Šoškić Popović, the winners included Indir Merdanović from Bosnia and Herzegovina (third prize) and Marko Dimić from Serbia (first prize), whose photo series shed light on the issue of environmental pollution and the balance between nature and local communities.
Following the award ceremony, an exhibition of the 15 best photo series was opened at Europe House in Podgorica, where it will remain on public display until 1 October.
The competition received 138 submissions from all six Western Balkan countries, demonstrating the creativity and dedication of citizens to use visual storytelling to address themes of sustainability, biodiversity, depollution, and other priorities of the Green Agenda.
Winner Marko Dimić stated:
“I don’t see this victory as mine, but as a victory for nature. Through my photographs, I tried to give a voice to those who don’t have one, who cannot speak to us. I hope that this small voice will grow into a strong, resounding call that brings about a better future for all of us. Because we are all connected through the same ecosystem – and it is our responsibility to correct our own mistakes and preserve what has been entrusted to us.”
Second-prize winner Marija Šoškić Popović said:
“I am especially grateful that my photographs of Mount Zeletin, the mountain where I grew up, were displayed. Through images of ancient trees and natural landscapes, I wanted to share something very personal. I am happy that people across the Balkans will have the opportunity to see this place, which means so much to me.”
Third-prize winner Indir Merdanović added:
“It is a great honour to have won third place in the Greenest Examples of the Western Balkans competition, organised within the EU4Green initiative. My set of six photographs was created with the intention of portraying the beauty of nature, while also highlighting the importance of preserving green spaces that inspire us and remind us of the value of sustainable living. I thank the organisers for the opportunity to be part of this story, and I am glad that my photographs were exhibited in EU House in Podgorica, where all visitors could share the same emotion and message that I wished to convey through my work.”
The EU4Green project is funded by the European Union (€10 million), with additional support from the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) (€1 million), and implemented by the Austrian Environment Agency. The project supports six Western Balkan economies in implementing the Green Agenda.