Bringing Together Kosova’s Diaspora

We had a diverse group of diaspora professionals at our gathering. They have been key players in various projects by GERMIN and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora’s Citizen Diplomacy Fellowship Program. These individuals have been making a real difference in their homeland by sharing their expertise and knowledge across many sectors, including policy-making, policy development, project writing, technology, fundraising, media, and public relations.

Inspiring Stories and Fresh Ideas

During the breakfast event, we were presented with compelling narratives showcasing the contributions of professionals to Kosova. The stories emphasized the positive impact made by the diaspora in various areas, including technological advancements, healthcare enhancements, and educational improvements.

The event also served as a brainstorming session, where participants shared new ideas to further enhance their contributions from the diaspora to the local communities. There was a lot of excitement as people discussed innovative ways to strengthen the connection between the global diaspora and our homelands.

Acknowledging the Power of Community

This event was more than just a celebration; it was a heartfelt thank you to our diaspora for their ongoing support and contributions over the years. Their commitment has been crucial to Kosovo’s success, and this gathering was a way to acknowledge and honor their efforts.

Building a Stronger Future Together

At GERMIN, we believe that the diaspora is a key asset to Kosova’s future. We aim to co-create by working together to drive positive change and innovation. We’re committed to strengthening these important connections and creating more opportunities for collaboration.

Over the past five years, through the Engaging Diaspora Professionals Platform, we have facilitated the engagement of over 120 global professionals in Kosova and Albania.

As we look ahead, we’re excited to build on this momentum and continue fostering partnerships that will benefit Kosova. With the support of our global community, we are confident in our ability to create a brighter future for everyone.

Join us in celebrating Diaspora Day and stay connected with GERMIN as we work together to empower our communities and build a better future for Kosovo.

Key figures such as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Diaspora, Donika Gërvalla Stwarch, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Liza Gashi, Mayor of the Municipality of Suhareka, Bali Muharremaj, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Pristina, Alban Zogaj, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Gjilan, Leonora Morina Bunjaku, and the President of the Assembly of the Municipality of Prizren, Antigona Bytyqi, actively participated in this significant activity. They underscored the pivotal role of diaspora cooperation, emphasized its invaluable contribution, and strongly advocated for the initiation of projects fostering diaspora engagement in Kosovo’s development.

Inclusive of this event were professionals from the diaspora, participants in the EDP program, who generously shared their knowledge and skills with local institutions, organizations, and private entities. Throughout the event, they shared insights into their experiences and contributions during their engagements in Kosovo, underscoring the imperative of investing in the homeland.

Lenhard Hamza, an expert who dedicated two years to Kosovo, conveyed the message that diaspora engagement should serve as a catalyst to diminish dependence on external knowledge and skills. He emphasized the pivotal role of diaspora professionals in advancing human capital in Kosovo, asserting that their engagement should serve to stimulate innovation.

This activity was carried out within the project “Action of Municipalities for Reintegration and Diaspora” – MARDI project, financed by Caritas Switzerland in Kosovo and the USAID Activity for workforce development through the private sector.

This call is carried out within the project: “Diaspora in support of Albanian women entrepreneurs”.

This project seeks to connect women entrepreneurs in Albania with Albanian diaspora professionals to foster growth through mentorship and coaching.

It is designed to address systemic challenges faced by women-owned start-ups in the field (and subfields) of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in accessing resources, support, and networking opportunities for market penetration and business development.

In this link you can find all the details about eligibility, application requirements, selection process, mentee commitments, and support provided.

Application Submission:

Applications should be submitted electronically to apply@germin.org with the subject line: Diaspora Mentorship for Women Entrepreneurs in Albania by December 22.

All documents should be in English and/or Albanian, and any supporting material must be accessible.

Contact Information:

For queries and further information, please contact tana.a@germin.org / sara.c@germin.org.

This project is implemented with the financial support of the Small Grants Program of the Commission for Democracy of the US Embassy in Tirana. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the Department of State.