We have had the pleasure to interview Lejla Becirovic who has recently made waives globally with her innovative contributions to healthcare and social work. Lejla has made significant buzz in the media recently, so we wanted to sit down and learn more about this extraordinary person.
So, who is Lejla Becirovic? Lejla Becirovic, a Bosnian refugee, author, artist, and social worker, has made significant contributions to literature, art, and social advocacy. Her book, Beyond Borders: A Story of War, Love, and Loss, offers a deeply personal narrative that sheds light on the refugee experience and the complexities of cultural integration.
In Beyond Borders, Becirovic recounts her family’s escape from war-torn Bosnia in the early 1990s, detailing the hardships they faced and the resilience that carried them through. The memoir delves into themes of immigration, identity, and belonging, providing readers with an intimate look at the challenges and triumphs associated with starting anew in a foreign land. Through her story, Becirovic aims to humanize the refugee experience, moving beyond statistics to highlight individual journeys marked by courage and hope.
You’ve written about topics like cultural integration, immigration, and resilience. How do you think your book contributes to ongoing conversations in society about these issues? “I believe Beyond Borders contributes to ongoing conversations about cultural integration, immigration, and resilience by offering a nuanced perspective that humanizes the issues at their core. Often, these topics are discussed in terms of statistics or abstract heated debates, often incorrect information about refugees, demonizing them; so I wanted to show my story in hopes of others learning that we refugees make up this country often brining different skillsets and enriching our communities. As refugees, we contribute to the fabric of our host countries in profound and meaningful ways. Although the journey to a new land is often fraught with immense challenges—leaving behind homes, families, and familiar environments—we bring with us a wealth of diverse talents, experiences, and perspectives. Our stories are not just tales of struggle, but also of resilience, hope, and determination. These qualities resonate in the communities we join, adding layers of richness and diversity that might otherwise have been absent. Through Beyond Borders, my family’s story, the book aims to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions, encouraging readers to see beyond borders—both physical and ideological—and understand the shared humanity that binds us all. Additionally, by exploring resilience in the face of adversity, Beyond Borders underscores the strength and hope that can emerge even in the most difficult circumstances. My hope is that it sparks deeper empathy and understanding, fostering more compassionate and inclusive conversations about immigration and cultural integration in society.”
In Beyond Borders, you explore themes of immigration, faith, identity, and belonging. What message do you hope readers take away from these themes? “In Beyond Borders, the themes of immigration, identity, and belonging are deeply intertwined, and I hope readers come away with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding these concepts. My main message is that identity is fluid and multifaceted, shaped by both our personal experiences and the external forces that influence us, such as immigration. I want readers to realize that belonging is not about fitting into predefined boxes or borders but about finding connection and community, no matter where we come from. Refugee life, while often challenging, also offers opportunities for growth, resilience, and transformation. Ultimately, I hope readers will reflect on their own identities, recognize the common threads that unite us all, and appreciate the rich diversity that shapes our world. Through this, I want to encourage a broader sense of empathy, inclusion, and understanding for those who may seem different but are, in many ways, just like everyone else.”
As an author and advocate, how do you measure success in terms of the impact your work has on your audience or the world around you? “For me, success is not just about the number of books sold or accolades received, but rather the impact my work has on sparking meaningful conversations and inspiring change. If my writing encourages readers to think more deeply about issues like immigration, identity, and belonging, and motivates them to act with more empathy and understanding, that’s when I consider my work a success. I measure success by the connections it creates—whether it’s a reader reaching out to share how the book resonated with them, or seeing real-world conversations shift toward greater inclusivity and compassion. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a larger cultural shift where we move beyond borders—both literal and metaphorical—and embrace diversity as a source of strength, not division.
How have your previous experiences or accomplishments shaped the way you approach your writing and activism today? “My previous experiences and accomplishments have deeply shaped both my writing and activism. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with diverse communities and listening to stories of struggle, resilience, and hope—experiences that have fueled my passion for advocating on behalf of marginalized groups. These encounters have given me a richer understanding of the complexities surrounding immigration, identity, and belonging, which I strive to reflect in my writing. As an advocate, I’ve learned that real change comes not just from sharing facts but from telling compelling, human stories that inspire empathy and action. I approach my writing with the understanding that words can open hearts and minds, and I’ve become more intentional about ensuring that my work amplifies voices that are often silenced. My experiences have also taught me the importance of patience, persistence, and the need to listen before speaking—qualities that I carry into both my activism and my creative work. Ultimately, my journey has helped me see that storytelling and advocacy go hand in hand; through both, I can create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and understood.”
Lastly, what do you hope your readers will remember most about Beyond Borders and the journey you took to share this story? “I hope that readers remember Beyond Borders as a reminder of the power of human connection and the shared experiences that unite us, despite our differences. At its core, the book is about the resilience and strength of individuals who navigate the challenges of immigration, faith, identity, and belonging. I want readers to walk away with a deeper sense of empathy and a greater understanding of the complexities behind these issues, recognizing that every person’s story is unique but also part of a larger, universal human experience.
As for the journey of sharing this story, I hope they see it as a reflection of my own commitment to amplifying voices that are often marginalized or misunderstood. Writing Beyond Borders was a deeply personal and emotional process. I want readers to feel that connection too—to know that the stories I’ve shared are not just words on a page, but real lives and real struggles that deserve to be seen and heard.”
The book has resonated with readers globally, receiving positive reviews for its heartfelt storytelling and insightful perspectives. Readers have praised the memoir for its ability to engage and move audiences, often noting that it draws them in from the very first page. The narrative offers a nuanced understanding of immigration and cultural adaptation, encouraging discussions around resilience, loss, and healing. Lejla’s focus continues to be the importance of inclusion, love, acceptance and humility.
Beyond her literary achievements, Becirovic has been recognized for her innovative contributions to healthcare and social work. She has been honored with multiple awards including 2024 Global Recognition Award; Multiple National Hospice Hero Awards, Hometown Hero Award, several letters from The President of United States, to name a few. Becirovic has been recognized for her efforts in modernizing cultural competency and patient care approaches. Her unique integration of artistic expression with established social work practices has set new standards in the field, benefiting communities worldwide.
Becirovic’s multifaceted career also includes her work as an artist. Known in the community as “Art by Lejla,” she has exhibited her artwork internationally and uses her art to support various causes. Her dedication to blending creativity with social responsibility underscores her commitment to effecting positive change.
Through her writing, art, and advocacy, Lejla Becirovic continues to inspire and educate, offering valuable insights into the refugee experience and the power of resilience. Her work encourages a deeper understanding of cultural integration and the shared humanity that connects us all.
For more information:
- Beyond Borders: A Story of War, Love, and Loss on Amazon: Amazon Link
- Art by Lejla Instagram
- Beyond Borders Book Instagram
- Lejla Becirovic Facebook
- Beyond Borders Book Official Site Facebook
- Art by Lejla Facebook
