A film could be made about the life of Djemila Talic-Gabriel, one of the most prominent members of the Bosnian community in New South Wales, Australia. She has served as the honorary consul of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is involved in numerous governmental and non-governmental Australian organizations.

She was born on November 16, 1968, in Bosanska Dubica into a wealthy and well-known Talic family.

“Although I grew up pampered, being the firstborn daughter in a rich family, my parents raised me to never look down on people, to help wherever I can, even if it’s just a kind word,” Djemila Talic Gabriel says at the start of the interview.

Like thousands of Bosnians in the early 1990s, she escaped Bosnia to save her life.

“The memories of genocide, war, and ethnic cleansing left deep scars. I was fortunate because I managed to escape the war with my children. I was helped by a Serbian police officer, to whom I owe my life, but I still can't reveal his name to protect him,” Talic Gabriel continues.

After living as a refugee in Germany, 22 years ago she decided to move to distant Australia, a decision that turned out to be the best in her life.

“From today’s perspective, I made the right decision, but 22 years ago it was one of the toughest choices. Coming to another continent with two children, without knowing the English language, wasn’t easy at all. My journey was really difficult. You wake up with nothing after living in a glass castle. I adapted quickly. As a child whose parents were long in business, I immediately enrolled in an English language school, followed by College for Business Marketing and Management. In recent years, I've taken on many roles. I am a member of the UN National Committee Australia and the Australian Local Government Women's Association of NSW, an advisor at the Multicultural Advisory Council of the Police Commissioner in New South Wales… I approach every job professionally and give my maximum, which is reflected in the results,” says Djemila, who in the meantime obtained a master’s degree in international law.

She is married to Australian businessman Chris Gabriel, and as successful businesspeople, they work to promote a positive image of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“We met through mutual acquaintances at the premiere of Jasmila Zbanic’s film *For Those Who Can Tell No Tales*, which I produced,” says Talic Gabriel.

This successful Bosnian woman is also known for her engagement in numerous humanitarian projects. She served as a goodwill ambassador for the Safe House in Sarajevo and implemented several projects to help various organizations in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“Life gives back only what we give to others. We should hold on to good deeds because if we do good for others, then we can hope for good in return. I am sure that giving is more satisfying than receiving, because it's not the wealth of those who have a lot, but those who give a lot. I'm glad that my beauty salon ‘Allure’ and I were part of the charity race *Race for the Cure*, which took place in Sarajevo on Sunday. By attending this event, we supported all the women who are fighting and will fight this disease, letting them know they are not alone. With every step, we support each other because every step matters,” says Djemila.

As a member of UN Women in Australia, she is engaged in the fight for the protection and rights of women and children.

“October is Mental Health Awareness Month, and World Mental Health Day is marked on October 10. At the end of this month, as a member of UN Women, I will be a guest and speaker at a webinar dealing with the problem of forced marriage, recognizing it, and finding ways to solve this still widespread problem, even in Australian communities,” says Djemila.

Djemila has also organized concerts for many famous Bosnian entertainers in Australia. She maintains years-long friendships with many of them.

“Halid Beslic, Dražen Zeric Zera, Hanka Paldum are just some of the famous personalities from the music scene I can call friends. Halid even sang at our wedding in Sarajevo. Many beautiful moments and concerts connect me with Zera, as well as Hanka Paldum. I’ve learned several valuable life lessons from Halid, and his advice has been very helpful to me. There’s also our painter Adin Hebib, who always makes us laugh with his jokes,” Talic Gabriel said at the end.