Marcel Baranja

Marcel Baranja, a 31-year-old from the Pomurje region, is a passionate advocate for working with people, art, and social change. After studying architecture in Ljubljana, he redirected his career toward the Center for School and Extracurricular Activities, where he dedicates himself to education and youth programs, particularly focusing on young Roma. His contributions go far beyond his daily professional duties. Marcel is a committed activist who consistently stands up for the rights of Roma, gender equality, and the rights of LGBT+ individuals. His 16-year involvement in the Roma Academic Club, including one term as its president, reflects his deep dedication to improving the lives of his community.

His energy and vision led to the creation of Pomurje’s first LGBT initiative in 2023. As the founder and president of the Fršlus association, he established a space where young people from marginalized backgrounds can find support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. Through his work, Marcel has shown that it is possible to overcome prejudice and build bridges of understanding between diverse communities.

He has also gained valuable international experience. As an intern at the European Parliament in Brussels, he worked in the Committee on Education and Culture, deepening his understanding of European policies and initiatives. He has participated in over 30 Erasmus+ youth exchanges and professional training programs across Europe, which allowed him to broaden his perspective and develop innovative approaches to working with youth.

In addition to all this, Marcel is also an artist and creator. His inner world is reflected in his conceptual and abstract paintings, exploring themes of identity, connection, and freedom. As a poet, he has published two poetry collections – "In the Shadow of Light" (2019) and "Your Gypsy Face Fades" (2024) – which reveal his deep introspection and life experiences.

Marcel Baranja is a youth worker, volunteer, and tireless seeker of knowledge, who continuously strives for both personal and social growth. With the soul of a psychologist and the heart of an activist, he leaves a lasting mark on every project he touches and inspires others to believe in change—and to make it happen.