“AmChamps – Young Leaders in Change” Class of 2020 Launched

“AmChamps brings together the best students and managers and contributes by networking leading people in Serbia and professionals from domestic and international companies. This program enhances the leadership potential of young managers, while students gain valuable experience by simultaneously improving their knowledge and skills,” said Jelena Pavlovic, president of AmCham's board of Directors, at the opening ceremony of the seventh cycle of the educational program “AmChamps – Young Leaders in Change”.

“This program is an opportunity for you to be the best version of yourself. If it was part of formal education, companies would benefit from informed and motivated employees who know exactly what is expected of them and what they can get from their employers. Be open-minded and courageous, because this is a prerequisite for the success of any kind of cooperation,” said Ivona Simic, HR Advisor at the Prime Minister's Office, at the program’s opening ceremony. “Seven years ago, when we were forced to choose between two educational programs – one for managers and one for students, the AmCham team’s synergy and thinking outside the box led us to preserve both. As a result of AmCham’s commitment, we have one of the most prestigious education programs for young people today, and it is my great pleasure to welcome you all,” added Ivona.

Nikolaos Dimiatriadis, regional director of Sheffield University’s Belgrade office, addressed attendees, providing helpful advice to participants on how to choose their “perfect match” and work as a team.

After the welcome speech, a Speed Meeting session was held, where participants had an opportunity to get to know each other, which helped them choose their ideal mentor/mentee team. Participants ranked each other by compatibility, after which a mathematical algorithm determined the teams.

Following the Speed Meeting session, students and young managers had an opportunity to get to know each other in an informal atmosphere over cocktails. Cocktails were followed by an introduction to the AmChamps Alumni Club, with over 350 members, as well as the much anticipated announcement of the teams.

“AmChamps – Young Leaders in Change” is a unique educational program aimed at the most promising final year students at the University of Serbia and young managers at AmCham member companies. For the seventh year in a row, participants will improve their knowledge, develop mentoring skills and expand their business contacts by working in teams. During one year of cooperation, participants will attend workshops and lectures, where they will work on specific tasks and projects and receive valuable advice.

The seventh generation of the program consists of 25 meticulously selected students and 25 young managers from the most successful companies in Serbia. The program is competitive in nature and the top students and mentors receive valuable prizes such as scholarships for MBA and Masters Studies at Sheffield University.