At a formal award ceremony as part of the “They Are Heroes” contest, ten exceptional individuals were honoured for 2025 in recognition of their selfless dedication and kindness, through which they transform lives in their communities every day.
You can read the stories of the selected heroes and heroines on the website www.onisuheroji.rs.
“This marks the sixth year that we gather for this purpose—to celebrate the very best among us. The ‘They Are Heroes’ contest was launched by the European Union Delegation in 2020, during the pandemic, when the generosity of many individuals saved lives and reminded us of the importance of solidarity. Today, five years later, we continue to come together and celebrate humanity, sacrifice, and compassion. Over the six contest cycles, more than 500 individuals have been nominated by fellow citizens who recognised them as heroes in their communities. Solidarity and selflessness are not just personal virtues; they are foundations of the values upon which the European Union stands. That’s why today, as we present these awards, we want to say thank you—for inspiring us and reminding us that true strength comes from love for others and for the community,” stated Plamena Halačeva, Chargé d’Affaires of the EU Delegation to Serbia.
Once again, this year’s heroes and heroines come from diverse corners of Serbia, united by one common trait—selfless commitment to their communities. Their good deeds range from caring for sick children and helping people with disabilities, to supporting vulnerable groups and advocating for animal rights, as well as raising awareness about organ donation and organizing humanitarian campaigns that connect the entire region.
“This award is not just recognition for what we’ve done so far. It’s a reminder that we’re on the right path—and a responsibility to continue even more decisively, more bravely, to build a society that welcomes everyone, with no exceptions. Our efforts now carry extra weight: we’ve become role models, beacons of hope and motivation for others who are just beginning their journey or searching for their voice,” said Đorđe Mitrović, one of this year’s winners.
Winners of the 2025 awards received generous gifts in appreciation of their noble deeds. Each hero received two airline tickets for travel to an EU country of their choice. Gift packages also included passes to the Beo Zoo garden, tickets to the permanent exhibition of the National Museum, and products from Coca-Cola HBC Serbia, Bambi, and Lidl.
