Our Story
Our Story
Our dance school, Kud Bosanska Mladost, LLC, is located in the heart of Utica, NY. Established as an LLC in 2024, our roots trace back to 1998 when it was founded by Bademka Sarajlia, affectionately known as Badi. Badi, along with her daughter Semra Sarajlija, nurtured this tradition over the years. However, the responsibility proved challenging for both, particularly as Semra pursued her nursing education.
In 2024, Semra, feeling the tug of preserving our cultural heritage, decided to reignite the flame and establish her own dance school. Semra embarked on this endeavor. Some might consider this journey their true love story, as they immersed themselves in our culture and heritage.
School's History
About Our Kud Bosanska Mladost Dance School
Our dance school, KUD Bosanska Mladost, LLC aims to preserve and promote traditional Balkan culture by providing quality entertainment and educational programs to local and national audiences in an effort to facilitate cross-cultural enrichment.
We offer vivid experiences of historical culture, fostering educational depth in cultural appreciation. We aim to instil a profound love for dance, nurturing self-confidence, discipline, and artistic expression. Our vision champions social equality and fosters an inclusive community through the performing arts.
Our Mission
Our mission at Kud Bosanska Mladost is to uphold and showcase Bosnian heritage through traditional dance forms. The name “Kud Bosanska Mladost” originates from Kulturno-Umjetničko Društvo Bosanska Mladost, meaning Cultural and Artistic Society Bosnian Youth, reflecting our dedication to the Bosnian community and its youth. This embodies the vibrancy and vitality of our cultural legacy.
Specializing in Bosnian Folklore Dance, our school offers dynamic choreography, intricate footwork, and an integration of Bosnian music genres such as sevdalinka, kolo, and other traditional melodies throughout the Balkan region.
Our Values
About Our Kud Bosanska Mladost Dance School
Our dance school, KUD Bosanska Mladost, LLC aims to preserve and promote traditional Balkan culture by providing quality entertainment and educational programs to local and national audiences in an effort to facilitate cross-cultural enrichment.
We offer vivid experiences of historical culture, fostering educational depth in cultural appreciation. We aim to instil a profound love for dance, nurturing self-confidence, discipline, and artistic expression. Our vision champions social equality and fosters an inclusive community through the performing arts.