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Apply Now: Startup Weekend Prishtina

Startup Weekends are 54-hour events designed to provide superior experiential education for technical and non-technical entrepreneurs. Beginning on Friday night pitches and continuing through brainstorming, business plan development, and basic prototype creation, Startup Weekends culminate in Sunday night demos and presentations. Participants create working startups during the event and are able to collaborate with like-minded individuals outside of their daily networks. All teams hear talks by industry leaders and receive valuable feedback from local entrepreneurs.

The event is intended to be a collaborative forum for sharing, learning, building, and having fun. As such, by registering as a participant, you acknowledge that any ideas shared by you or anyone else over the course of the event are contributions to the overall experience and community.

Kosovo Celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week

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For the fourth year, the Innovation Centre Kosovo is hosting the Global Entrepreneurship Week – a week full of activities, celebration and excitement revolving around Entrepreneurship in Kosovo. This week of November is globally dedicated to emerging and established entrepreneurs, innovators and job creators who launch startups that make new ideas come to life and contribute to their country’s economic growth .

Kosovo, as a young country, is undergoing a major economic transition. Therefore, events such as GEW, which bring together innovators and changemakers are a crucial aspect of Kosovo’s development. Similar to previous years, this year’s GEW brings together self-starters, investors and businesspeople so they can explore new concepts and solutions, develop networks and establish new startups. Considering the competitive market structure of Kosovo, a week full of activities supporting and exploring the potential of young Kosovars represents a window of new opportunities.

Today GEW kicked off with a forum on Kosovo Entrepreneurial Ecosystem. The opening features two panel session with successful figures who discussed and commented on the trends of “Entrepreneurship, Education & Access to Finance.” The forum was held at the Swiss Diamond Hotel, under the patronage of the US Ambassador to Kosovo, Mr. Greg Delawie. Mr. Delawie has already delivered a message regarding the Global Entrepreneurship week. He highlights: “Thanks to you, every day great ideas are becoming reality, translating in investment, jobs and economic development for Kosovo.” He further states that, after all, the most successful entrepreneurs don’t just create ideas or start businesses…they solve real-world problems.

This November, GEW Kosovo 2016 will focus on five themes. The themes are: GEW Women, GEW Youth, GEW Investors, GEW Cities, GEW Scale-ups.

Over thirty-five partners have already confirmed their contribution to GEW, and each of them will share their expertise and commitment on several events based on their field of interest. The events will be scattered all over Kosovo, such as in Prishtine, Ferizaj, Gjakove, Istog, Mitrovice, etc. These successful firms and organizations have already shared their activity list scheduled for the next week.

Through these highlighted themes, GEW Kosovo organizers promise to achieve an entrepreneur-friendly environment where people will be able to get involved and work through opportunities based on their enthusiastic choices. During the event, participants will be able to connect and network with potential collaborators, mentors and even investors.

We are very excited to be part of the world’s largest entrepreneurship campaign, which aims to promote startup opportunities and business aspirations through creative local activities, fused with international enthusiastic energy.

So what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars, and get ready for GEW Kosovo 2016!

DiasporaFlet – interactive platform for diaspora

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Three years after establishing the KosovoDiaspora platform, Germin, in collaboration with Diaspora partner organizations, has taken the initiative to establish the Structured Dialogue on the Rights of the Diaspora.

Before 100 attendees, within the Structured Dialogue for Diaspora Rights, Germin launched the interactive platform for Diaspora www.diasporaflet.org. The virtual platform for Diaspora aims to connect our Diaspora community members and facilitate the promotion of their social and political rights. The platform has three interactive elements- map, calendar, and blog. Each organization in Diaspora (formal or informal) can create its profile in the platform and update it with information at any time.

Behar Xharra, executive director of Germin, through skype connection from Bangladesh told the purpose of the initiative and the importance of the diaspora, being the largest social group in Kosovo.

“Let’s start to give a chance to diaspora, so they can promote their political and social and also be part of policy-making process in Kosovo. The need to start this initiative was for two reasons: First, because diaspora is fragmented. Second, to have structured dialogue between the diaspora community, government, and among different Diaspora communities”, added Xharra.

The director of Swiss Cooperation in Kosovo, Patrick Etienne said he is happy to support the initiative, adding that diaspora has spread worldwide, in addition to Switzerland and America.

Kushtrim Shermeti, chief cabinet in Ministry of Diaspora said that platform is very welcomed by the Ministry, adding that he is “glad that there are organizations like Germin with some young professionals who have started this.”

“It’s time for two-way conversation and it is the moment not only to wait and expect from diaspora to give to their homeland, but to start engaging about their related causes”, said Liza Gashi, director of programs at Germin.

This grant is supported by program Democratic Society Promotion (DSP) -financed by Swiss Cooperation Office in Kosovo (SCO-K) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark (DANIDA) and managed by the Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF).

We are in the era of ‘AirBnb’ and ‘Uber’, enterprises which use virtual means to connect businesses with markets. These online businesses are becoming increasingly attractive for creative youth. Visar and Bajram are two such entrepreneurs who are taking advantage of virtual platforms to improve everyday experiences.

Visar and Bajram have launched Locamba, an enterprise which aims to connect tourists with locals. It is built upon the belief that tourist experiences are enhanced if they connect with locals who can guide them through attractions, restaurants and historical sites. “Locamba” receives its name from these locals, or Local Ambassadors who lace their tours with personal stories about the city.

Locamba makes possible personalized tours which allow tourists to gain a sense of familiarity with the places they visit. Its founders’ vision to facilitate unique connections is grounded in their own experiences. Both Visar and Bajram are Albanian immigrants who came to Switzerland from eastern Kosovo. They were raised and educated in Switzerland, and are now using their connections to both countries in order to make their enterprise the next big global platform.

Indeed, new, and enthusiastic Local Ambassadors from various cities are constantly joining Locamba. Currently, Locamba functions in German-speaking countries (Switzerland, Germany, and Austria), because most of its ambassadors live in these places. The team, however, intends to expand their reach and become the go-to place for tourists around the world.

Bringing Home Lessons From Abroad

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In the 25 years of his life, Valdrin Dervishaj has accomplished many things. Inspired by his grandfather, who was a lawyer, Valdrin spent his childhood dreaming about following the same career path. However, his dedication and involvement in school, youth, and international organizations inspired him to shift focus. Valdrin’s newfound passions are civil society and start-ups.

After graduating from the Faculty of Law at the University of Prishtina, Valdrin worked for the Kosovar Institute for Policy Research and Development as a research assistant. Additionally, he co-founded the biggest environmental campaign of the time, called “Let’s do it Kosovo”, held the secretary position at the Kosovo Youth Committee, and was the Kosovar representative at the Balkan Youth Network. His desire for learning took him to Thessaloniki where he pursued a graduate degree on Banking and Finances at the University of Sheffield in Greece. During this time, Valdrin was also an assistant lawyer and teaching assistant to one of the law professors there. In a very short time, he built a name for himself which granted him countless opportunities to work abroad. Yet, a year later, Valdrin is back in Kosova. When asked about why he did not chose to develop his career abroad, Valdrin says, “I believe that leaving the country is like abandoning your own true self. I enjoyed being away and being exposed to different cultures for a little bit, but it is here that I belong.”

Valdrin faced his first dilemma immediately after returning to Kosova. Upon starting a new job, working for one of the biggest producers in the country, he realized that he did not agree with the way some companies handle their operations and fiscal responsibilities. Therefore, he made a switch and continued his career as Legal and Monitoring Officer at Coalition of NGOs for Child Protection.

In addition to working for ChildPact, Valdrin continues to come up with ways to contribute to the society. Studying abroad enabled Valdrin experience business in several other countries and recognize the need for new markets in Kosovo. Therefore, Valdrin has partnered up with an Arvanite businessman in New Zealand and together they have launched Valvi Limited—a start-up that specializes in IT. Valvi Limited is a breath of fresh air.Going astray from the traditional way of doing business, Valvi Limited represents a special opportunity for Kosova’s youth. The company employs people from five different countries, 60% of which are women. They’re trying to lead by example and show people that businesses succeed when they are steered and managed by diverse groups. Currently, the team has 10 freelancers from Kosova and they are all under the age of 30.

Valdrin says that Valvi Limited is an offspring of the desire to connect young, talented people of Kosovo with other countries through a healthy business environment – an environment that Kosova often lacks. He wants young people of Kosova to have the same financial and income opportunities as their foreign counterparts. Having worked in different sectors, Valdrin has a unique and informed perspective on effective ways of doing business in Kosova. “We are very aware of the existential problems such as getting loans and having access to credit—these are the main problems start-ups face”, says Valdrin. He mentions the weak economy and rule of law as big parts of the problem. However, he believes that small businesses and start-ups could turn the economy of the country around. Valdrin believes in the human and intellectual power that Kosova possesses and is determined to work hard to turn challenges into opportunities by engaging domestically and internationally-educated people who could be a great contribution to the country in different capacities.

Besa Neziri Rugova is a fashion designer from Kosovo whose work is characterized by a modern take on traditional elements. After finishing her studies at Parsons School of Design in New York and working at various fashion labels, she launched her own line in 2013. Besa describes her designs as “dreamy, ethereal, whimsical, feminine silhouettes.” Her signature touches are sheer fabrics such as silk organza, tulle and hand-made lace.

From Kosovo to New York, Besa brings authentic designs to the fashion world

The following is an exclusive interview with Besa for KosovoDiaspora.

KD: Can you tell us a bit about your background and the work you do?

Besa Neziri Rugova: I graduated from Art Academy in Kosovo with a major in painting, before I attended The Parsons School of Design in New York, where I received a degree in Fashion Design.

After graduation, I worked in the fashion industry with various labels – where I gained a comprehensive knowledge on garment making and the business side of the industry. This really helped build the confidence to start my own line, something that I always wanted and dreamed of. In 2013, I launched my own line here in New York – with a small capsule collection. Since then, I have been expanding and evolving, as designers do.

Earlier this year, I opened up a studio in Prishtina, where I not only do my production – but I also have a curated showroom where I present my work, and meet clients. I also have private clients, for whom I do custom work as well. At the same time, I’m continuing my work in New York, and gathering inspiration and ideas that feed my artistic soul.

KD: What are some of the projects you working on now?

Besa Neziri Rugova: I just finished up a photoshoot for my new Spring/Summer 2017 collection here in New York, which will be in the store soon. I have also started working on my Fall/Winter 2017 collection – by putting together my moldboard and initial rough sketches. Beyond that, another ongoing project, which is not that closely related to fashion, is coming to an end soon. I will disclose more information on that in the days to come. I am also back to school to get certified for bespoke men’s tailoring techniques, and I am absolutely in love with this class and learning so much.

KD: How do you see the art and design scene in Kosovo?

Besa Neziri Rugova: I think there are a lot of talented people in Kosovo, but succeeding there is still mostly contingent upon connections rather than merit, which troubles me. While being well connected is an important factor anywhere in the world, it shouldn’t be able to entirely substitute talent. I would love to see this change – and for young, fresh, talent to find more opportunities to present their work. Another challenge I see, quite often actually, is a lack of authenticity when it comes to some fashion designers in Kosovo. I have noticed a tendency to copy other’s aesthetics and ideas, rather than creating ones own. This is something that I find refreshing in New York- the underlying respect in the design community for individual authenticity and allowing others to retain their own ideas for themselves.

Maybe some fashion industry professionals, offering valid, authentic, unbiased critique- is needed to alleviate the above mentioned problems. This could really help improve the overall quality and respectability of the fashion scene in Kosovo.

KD: What are some of the challenges you face as an artist from Kosovo?

Besa Neziri Rugova: To be honest, I never faced specific challenges related to my Kosovar origin. On the contrary, I always felt and feel welcome, and people are genuinely intrigued by our history and country here in the US. In school, I did struggle a bit initially when I got here, due to minimal computer skills, poor English, and the challenges of adapting to a different school system. However, overall, being from Kosovo and another place in general, I really feel like I’ve come to develop a unique style, based on my native culture intermixed with the creative inspiration I access day to day, everywhere I look, being in a city like New York.

KD: How can diaspora members help better the image of Kosovo?

Besa Neziri Rugova: I think we are on the right track here, especially when it comes to the younger generation, represented prominently by Dua Lipa or Rita Ora. It’s important to lead by example, conveying proper values and authentic talent as the key to success, no matter what field you may be in.

To see more of Besa’s designs, check out her Instagram or Facebook page.

We just finished the football fiesta in France and it is already time to focus on another big sporting even – the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. More than 11000 athletes are competing from around 206 countries and 19 of them are Albanians.

Albania is represented by six athletes competing in three different disciplines in these Olympic Games. Albania is not a new participant – its first appearance was at the 1972 Olympics in München with five representatives.

Nikol Merizaj, aged 17, is the youngest of this year’s bunch but the oldest one, Luiza Gega, is the one to watch out for. Miss Gega won silver in Amsterdam last month, Albania’s first medal at the European Championships. She will be carrying the Albanian flag during the Opening Ceremony.

The other participants are: Evagjelia Veli – Weightlifting women 53 & 63 kg; Briken Calja – Weightlifting men 69 kg; Nikol Merizaj – Swimming women 100 m freestyle; Sidni Hoxha – Swimming men 50 m freestyle; Izmir Smajlaj – Athletics men long jump and Luiza Gega – Athletics women 1 500 m & 3 000 m steeplechase.

Kosovo is making its debut at the Olympics this summer with eight athletes competing in five different disciplines. The one to watch out for is, of course, the judo world champion Majlinda Kelmendi. She made her Olympic debut in London in 2012 under Albanian flag but is now competing for Kosovo – her birth country. Kelmendi will be Kosovo’s flag bearer.

The other participants are: Lum Zhaveli – Swimming men 50 m freestyle; Majlinda Kelmendi – Judo women -52 kg; Musa Hajdari – Athletics men 800 m; Nora Gjakova – Judo women -57 kg; Qendrim Guri – Cycling men road race; Rita Zeqiri – Swimming women 100 m backstroke; Urata Rama – Shooting women 10 m air rifle; Vijona Kryeziu – Athletics women 400 m.

Representing Finland is Nooralotta Neziri whose father is Albanian. She is competing in 100 m hurdles and holds the Finnish record for women in the same discipline.

There is a Macedonian with Albanian origins representing the country for the first time this summer. The 20-year old Drita Islami will participate in the 400 m hurdles.

Three football players with Albanian origins will compete in Brazil under the Swedish flag, as a part of their 163 member group. The women’s team is represented by Manchester City Kosovare Asllani and the men’s by the captain Astrit Ajdarevic and golden boot winner of the U17 World Cup in 2013 Valmir Berisha. Ajdarevic already gave one goal in the opening game against Colombia.

The historic Stage 48 NYC opened its doors to a sold out crowd on Sunday, March 27, 2016 for Albanian Fashion Week 2016. New Yorkers welcomed international Pop Rock Prince Matteo Brento to NYC’s largest and hottest club in Times Square.

The X-Factor Albania Star, Matteo Brento opened the New York show in front of a packed house of 400 adoring fans with his newest single #21 (Goodbye My Love). The new hit #21 (Goodbye my love) is composed and written by award-winning artist Michele Bisceglia, writer and showrunner of ‘IF, winner of “Best Original Song”. The song is arranged by Alessandro Di Lascia in collaboration with vocal coach Cristina Bisceglia.

Matteo treated the crowd to an evening of greatest classics performing Italian hits like “Caruso” by Lucio Dalla, “L’ultima occasione” by Mina, “La donna cannone” by Francesco De Gregori and “E penso a te” by Lucio Battisti.

“It was truly an honor to perform at the Albanian Fashion Week in New York some of the greatest classics and most beloved Italian songs. Caruso by Lucio Dalla is a classic of Italian music known all over the world. What I respect about a legend like Lucio Dalla is that he is a great artist who is not just writing songs, but he is telling real poems,” said Pop Rock star Matteo Brento.

“Congratulations to Mrika Krasniqi, the organizer of the Albanian Fashion Week in New York for such an incredible and successful event. Albanian Fashion Show is the biggest show in USA for Albanian top designers. A very sophisticated show, a pleasant night and highly entertaining. Thank you for having Matteo Brento as special guest at such a fantastic evening,” said Armando Roberto, Matteo Brento’s manager.

Other highlights of Matteo Brento’s performance included the popular Albanian anthem “Xhamandani vija vija” by Ilirët (composed by award-winning Zef Çoba) and “Summertime sadness” by Lana Del Rey, winner of MTV Music Award and Grammy nominee. The later song “Je Ti” by Albanian superstar Alban Skënderaj was dedicated to X-Factor Albania and Matteo’s worldwide Albanian fans. Matteo Brento first performed “Je Ti” to millions of fans during the live broadcast of the biggest talent competition in Europe, The X-Factor Show.

“It was a dream week! The performance at the Albanian Fashion Week NY was a huge success. The shoot of the music video in New York was amazing,” said superstar Matteo Brento. “It was even more incredible to have known special people. Thank you for treating me like a great artist, a great team! Thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone! See you soon,” said successful European artist Matteo Brento regarding his debut in United States.

Albanian Fashion Week 2016 is organized by Mrika Krasniqi, founder and CEO of Albanian Fashion Agency and Nil Production in New York. The Albanian Fashion Show presented the best looks from the biggest night in fashion in Manhattan. According to the press release published on the official website of Matteo Brento (www.matteobrento.com), the artist was accompanied by his Italian manager Armando Roberto and his NY Management for the Red Carpet VIP Fashion Show.

“The evening was even more grandiose with Matteo’s performance. It was such a special honor for us to have Matteo Brento at the Albanian Fashion Show. He brought such a classy and warm atmosphere for the public with all the songs that he performed, especially with the ‘Xhamadani Vija Vija’ song. He sang it so well that I got very emotional hearing it,” said Mrika Krasniqi, organizer of Albanian Fashion Week 2016 in New York.

Ambassador H.E. Ylber Kryeziu welcomed Matteo Brento and Armando Roberto to a meet-and-greet at the General Consulate of Kosovo in New York on Monday, March 28, 2016. Matteo Brento said that it was a great privilege and pleasure and thanked Ambassador Kryeziu for the warm welcome and he looks forward to his next projects in Albania and Kosovo.

“I am very excited about my new collaboration with Michele Bisceglia. We are preparing something special for Kenga Magjike in Albania later this year. I would like to present a traditional Albanian song in this great festival to represent the beautiful Albanian culture,” said the internationally known Matteo Brento.

Viennese Marketing Professional Draws Inspiration from her Iranian-Kosovar heritage

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Iran, Kosovo, Austria, journalism and public relations. Those are some of the main identifying characteristics of Medina Abazi, a young professional living and working in Vienna. Born to an Iranian mother and a Kosovar Albanian father, Medina embodies the true meaning of a global citizen. After her parents met in Turkey where her father had a business, Medina spent the first few years of her life travelling back and forth from Istanbul to Teheran. Her family moved to Austria when Medina was four years old. Her father wanted to make sure that Medina would be able to pursue her dreams in a country where women enjoyed equal rights.

Medina talks fondly of her adopted homeland. She says Austria is a place where you can achieve your potential through hard work and dedication. She studied journalism at the University of Klagenfurt and also wrote for The Harvard Crimson. A passion for politics spurred her to work for the Social Democratic Party in Austria and promote various social issues.

Recently, Medina opened her own public relations agency focusing on social media and marketing. She was not sure what she was getting herself into at first, but she has already scored some big companies as clients. Her socialite status in Vienna is definitely a plus for networking and business opportunities.

Medina is also an integration ambassador for Zusammen Osterreicht (Together Austria), an organization working to promote integration and understanding of immigrants in Austria. For German-speakers, you can see this video where Medina explains in more detail her involvement on countering stereotypes against immigrants. Her Iran-Kosovo heritage is a source of inspiration for the young Viennese to help other immigrants navigate and integrate in the Austrian society.

Artwork from Kosovar war survivors at the Albanian Fashion Show in NY

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New York – Albanian Fashion Agency (AFA) along with Arta, a Kosovo based NGO, announced their support for women survivors of unwanted physical contact during the 1998-99 war in Kosovo. In order to support these women, an Albanian Fashion Show will take place on Sunday, 27 March 2016 (4:00-9:00pm) to showcase the works of these survivors. All proceeds and donations will be used to help women in need. Specifically, the money raised from this cultural event and the exhibit will go towards single mothers in need, to help with clothing and food for winter and education for their children. In addition, proceeds will also be used to improve the social and economic opportunities for women survivors.

“OJQ Arta” was founded in 2005 by Mrs. Hafije Qyqalla to advocate for the rights and needs of women. ARTA operates as a non-governmental organization since 1993 in Kosovo. Since being founded, Arta has been working to support, advocate and promote the rights of women in Kosovo, regardless of their race, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, educational level, and physical capabilities. In 2014 & 2015 NGO Arta organized anti-violence campaigns to raise awareness about the injustices imposed toward women.

Arta together with AFA, for the first time in history, is making it possible to exhibit the creative works and products made by women survivors from Kosovo war in NYC. “We are helping these very talented and creative women gain independence and financial freedom by encouraging them get back up on their feet,” said Hafije Qyqalla, Founder and CEO of Arta (OJQ Arta).

“Albanian Fashion Agency is very happy to support a nonprofit organization from Kosova “OJQ Arta” which is going to bring the hand made products that are made by women who were raped in war during 1998-1999. These products are going to be shown during Albanian Fashion Show. All funds and donations will be used to aid those women that need our help the most,” said Mrika Krasniqi, Founder and CEO of AFA (Albanian Fashion Agency).

Through this event Arta, along with AFA, hopes to bring financial freedom to the women survivors.Tickets for the event are $30 general public and $50 VIP. Tickets are available on EventBrite.

For more info visit www.albanianfashionagency.com.