This project brings together people, stories, and memories to explore and preserve our shared cultural heritage, especially the voices and experiences of those connected to Podum and the Gacka Valley. It is open to everyone who cares about memory, belonging, and the stories that shape who we are.
What we collect
We gather memories and materials from families, archives, and local institutions. These include:
- photos, short stories, and video recordings
- postcards and documents
- handmade items from home workshops
How we work
We form working groups focused on research, cultural programming, and community initiatives. At the same time, we organize gatherings and conversations with people who remember the past; building bridges to younger generations. We interview elders and youth (including children with direct or ancestral ties to the region) and visit meaningful places that help tell the story of migration, memory, and everyday life.
Exhibitions, book & multimedia
From the collected material we are developing a traveling exhibition to be presented in: Canada, the U.S., Serbia, Germany, Australia, France, Iceland, Sweden, and beyond. We are also preparing a book and a suite of multimedia materials, including video interviews, historical records, and creative contributions.
Round Table
During the opening night of the Refugee Week in 2025, the discussion focused on strategic planning and the next steps for the project. Together with the audience, the conversation explored themes of historical heritage and migration, highlighting how physical spaces shape cultural memory.
The exchange of ideas emphasized the importance of preserving stories and places that connect the past with the present, while also laying the groundwork for future initiatives.
A key goal is to bring international students and scholars to Podum and the Gacka Valley, encouraging them to explore, research, and contribute to a deeper understanding of cultural memory and belonging.
Video
