Afanu Latić Receives the Prestigious Zaim Azemović Award

The prestigious Zaim Azemović Award for this year has been granted to Afanu Latić for his collection of stories titled “Pod oštrim uglom.” This accolade is presented by the Center for Culture in Rožaje, Montenegro. Latić’s work, published by Fokalizator in Podgorica, has been recognized for its unique narrative style that bridges past, present, and future.

According to Melida Travančić, a notable Bosnian-Herzegovinian writer and critic, Latić’s collection connects various timelines and offers fresh perspectives. She emphasizes that storytelling serves as a vital tool for examining and interpreting reality from diverse angles. This approach not only enriches the reader’s experience but also invigorates the literary landscape.

About Afanu Latić and His Literary Journey

Born in Berane in 1983, Latić has dedicated much of his life to literature and education. He completed his primary education at Hajro Šahmanović School in Plav, before pursuing further studies at the Gazi Husrev-beg Medresa in Sarajevo.

After finishing secondary school, he enrolled in the Department of Oriental Philology, specializing in Arabic and Turkish language and literature. Upon completing his studies, Latić returned to Montenegro and took on a role as an Arabic language professor at the Mehmed Fatih Medresa in Podgorica. In addition to teaching, he engages in translation from Arabic and has a passion for writing both poetry and prose.

Latić’s work reflects his deep understanding of cultural narratives and the human experience, and his recent award further solidifies his place in the contemporary literary world. The Zaim Azemović Award not only honors his achievements but also highlights the importance of storytelling in fostering cultural dialogue.

The recognition of Latić’s work underscores the vibrant literary scene in Montenegro and the ongoing commitment to celebrating voices that challenge perceptions and provoke thought. As Latić continues to explore the intricacies of language and narrative, his contributions to literature are sure to resonate with readers both locally and internationally.