The Croatian Union of Youth and Students with Disabilities (SUMSI) was founded on 21 May 2009. Based in Zagreb at Avenija Marina Držića 71A, SUMSI operates nationwide. Membership in SUMSI is voluntary, and all member associations enjoy equal status. SUMSI currently comprises six member associations: “Zamisli”, “Čujem, Vjerujem, Vidim”, “Kameleon”, and “Liberato”.
Our member organisations joined SUMSI to promote cooperation and coordinate activities for young people and students with disabilities throughout Croatia. Our members primarily aim to foster collaboration, coordinate joint efforts, and actively support young people and students with disabilities in navigating the challenges of work and life.
SUMSI works by connecting and cooperating with other associations, institutions, organisations, and individuals. We organise educational programmes and provide practical support, keeping young people and students with disabilities updated on relevant topics, events, news, and other areas of interest. We also offer active support to people with disabilities regardless of their age.
The vision of SUMSI is to lead a shift in societal attitudes towards people with disabilities and to advocate for the widespread adoption of universal design. By harnessing the combined efforts of various associations, we aim to empower young people with disabilities to fully participate in everyday life.
The mission of SUMSI is to transform public attitudes and advocate for an improved quality of life, enabling people with disabilities to reach their full potential. Through our combined efforts, we raise awareness of the needs and abilities of people with disabilities, promote equal educational opportunities, and foster pathways to independence and societal inclusion.
The president of SUMSI is Denis Marijon, and the secretary is Sandra Novak.
