Rozita Petrinska Labudović

In 2009, as a Junior Faculty Development Program (JFDP) Fellow, Rozita Petrinska, MA., MSc., had the privilege of spending a semester at the School of Library and Information Science of the University of Iowa in Iowa City. This transformative experience not only expanded her knowledge and horizons in her professional field but also deepened her commitment to civic engagement. During the time she spent in the United States, Petrinska Labudović gained valuable insights into the care and inclusion of individuals with disabilities, which made her realize the need for similar efforts in North Macedonia. Empowered by the experience, knowledge, and extensive network  she gained, Rozita decided to make a change in the Macedonian society in that direction.

In the years following the fellowship, she actively participated in two significant projects focused on the education and training of persons with disabilities. These projects, implemented by fellow members of the Macedonian American Alumni Association (MAAA) from multiple countries and supported by the US Alumni Innovation Engagement Fund, furthered their collective efforts.

In 2017, along with a group of motivated professionals from diverse fields Rozita founded the Association for Promotion of Education, Culture, and Sport 'Education for All' Skopje. Their non-governmental organization aims to enhance access to high-quality education, cultural activities, and sporting events for persons with disabilities. Since its establishment, 'Education for All' (www.educationforall.org.mk) has worked on implementation of eight EU projects under the Erasmus+ program, all focused on promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities.  

Most of the projects revolve around the implementation of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) as a common language among professionals in the educational, medical, and social sectors, emphasizing individuals' abilities and participation. Together with different experts and organizations (universities, schools, local governments, museums, libraries, other NGOs etc.), the organization persistently works towards building a more just and inclusive society for all.