Arijana Miljković, born in 1986 in Velika Kladuša, Bosnia and Herzegovina, carries a story shaped by both the turbulent history of the Balkans and the enduring strength of personal loss. Her early years were marked by the devastation of the 1990s war, which prompted her family to seek refuge in Croatia. It was within this period of displacement that Miljković discovered the power of language and literature—a refuge for her soul amidst the chaos surrounding her.
Her journey toward becoming a writer began following the death of her beloved grandmother, a loss that deeply affected her. To honor her grandmother’s memory, Miljković channeled her grief into her first creative expressions—poetry and storytelling. Through her poignant words, she not only paid tribute to her grandmother but also navigated her own emotional landscape, creating a space for healing. Miljković’s first book, a novel based on her grandmother’s life, serves as a testament to the profound bond they shared, marking the beginning of her literary career.
Growing up in a different linguistic and cultural environment, Miljković faced the challenge of learning the Croatian language and grammar. Despite the initial hurdles, she grew to love the language, a love that was fostered by her elementary school Croatian language teacher, Professor Salaj Jula. Miljković often credits her for igniting her passion for literature and language, a foundation that would go on to shape her writing. The impact of Professor Salaj Jula’s teachings remains one of the greatest influences in Miljković’s literary life, and she expresses deep gratitude for the encouragement that helped her cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the written word.
Today, Miljković’s writing draws deeply from her personal experiences and her love for her family, especially her son, Pjero. She finds great inspiration in the bond they share, which is reflected in many of her poems. Her children’s story, Pjeroland, is dedicated to her son and embodies the joy and creativity that he brings to her life. Her role as a mother has given her a renewed sense of purpose in her writing, with each verse serving as a tribute to her love for him and her desire to nurture a world of imagination and wonder.
In addition to her literary endeavors, Miljković is deeply committed to social causes, particularly those that advocate for children’s rights and support women who are victims of domestic violence. She works as a teaching assistant in an elementary school, where she provides support for children with disabilities, creating an environment of inclusion and empathy. Her dedication to children and her advocacy for their rights are cornerstones of her personal and professional life. Furthermore, Miljković is actively involved in various associations that protect children and raise awareness about domestic violence, advocating for a safer and more compassionate world.
Miljković’s literary work, intertwined with her advocacy, paints a picture of a woman who is not only a poet and storyteller but also a compassionate and determined individual. Her words resonate with the themes of love, resilience, and hope, creating a bridge between her personal experiences and the greater community. She is a voice for those who have suffered in silence, whether through the devastation of war, the loss of loved ones, or the struggles of women and children in vulnerable situations.
Through her poetry and activism, Arijana Miljković continues to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the healing power of words and the importance of compassion in a world that often seems divided. Her journey is a reflection of both personal triumph and collective responsibility, embodying the strength of a writer who not only tells stories but lives them.