Networks

Anamari Repić

Anamari Repić holds MA in Journalism and Communication, within KIJAC, Kosovo Institute of Journalism and Communication. She holds Uuniversity degree in the Teaching faculty. Her additional educational trainings include “Contemporary techniques in management” at Turkish Institute of Industrial Management, and “Fellowship Leadership Program” and “Training on Public Diplomacy” in Washington.  She is trainer of TV journalism. Since March 2010 she has been Deputy Director General of Radio-Television of Kosovo, public service broadcaster. Her journalistic career started in Radio, since 2000. She was journalist, editor, correspondent until 2010. For almost ten years she was political correspondent of Radio Free Europe.  During the 2009, she was producer and moderator of the TV talk show “Sve je moguce. Sa Anom”, which was broadcasted on Kosovo Television (RTK) and Serbian Television (TVB92).  She was dealing with the issues of integration of Serbs into Kosovo society, their future, reconciliation, dialog between Serbs and Albanians, etc. Since 2008 she has been Vice-chairperson of the Press Council of Kosovo. She helps in chairing the monthly Board members meetings, participates in the discussion about the procedural rules and complaints, with an aim of promoting and respecting the Press Code of Conduct. Anamari was contributor/writer to the Kosovo daily newspaper Gazeta Express and Serbian news portal E-Novine. In this way her opinions could be read by Albanians and Serbs. Her columns were about current political, social, gender, ethnic, and cultural affairs. In October 2013, she contributed in the publication “Women and Governance”, published by the Hope Fellowship Program and USAID, with an article about “Media, Society and Women’s representation”.Being a member of regional initiative “Academy on Media Law in South East Europe”, Anamari takes part in this initiative, which researches legal and self-regulation issues in the media. Anamari has been awarded two times for professionalism in journalism: -In 2003 the Annual Award of the Association of Kosova Independent Journalists and IREX agency for Courageous in journalism. For journalist who made outstanding contributions to the field of journalism. -In 2009 the Annual Award of the Association of Kosovo Independent Journalists for the Best journalist within the minority community. She has been active participant in various local, regional and international conferences, roundtables and workshops on the issues such as media, minority programming, women’s issue, etc.

Vesa Caka

Vesa Caka works as an Advisor for International Relations in the Constitutional Court of Republic of Kosovo. She is responsible for providing advice to the Constitutional Court management on foreign relations, coordinating all exchange programs, visits of the Constitutional Court delegations abroad as well as visits of the foreign delegations to the Kosovo Constitutional Court, cooperating with the donors of the Constitutional Court other various responsibilities. Previously, she worked as the Chief of the Cabinet of the President in the Constitutional Court of Republic of Kosovo. Ms. Caka has received her Master’s degree in Management and Business Administration from the Central European University - Business School, in Budapest, Hungary. Additionally, she has a bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Public Policy from the American University in Kosovo and she has received an Associate Degree in Applied Arts and Sciences from the American University of Kosovo.

Blerta Sulhasi

Blerta Sulhasi is a licensed clinical psychologist, focusing on adolescent mental health. Ms. Sulhasi developed and implemented the School-based Psychological Services Program (SBPSP) in Kosovo, with technical support from the American Psychological Association (APA), George Washington University, and the D.C. Department of Behavioral Health. Ms. Sulhasi gained national recognition for her program, laying the foundation for the de-stigmatization of mental needs in Kosovo.
Currently Ms. Sulhasi is affiliated with the D.C. Department of Behavioral Health, and Alzheimer’s Association, in Washington D.C.  Earlier in Ms. Sulhasi’s career, she worked as a high school psychology teacher, UNICEF, Kosovar Youth Council, Children for Tomorrow-Kosova, etc. Ms. Sulhasi has a Master Degree in Clinical Psychology.

Eliza Hoxha

Eliza Hoxha is an Architect by profession. Eliza is the director of the NGO “Urbaniak.” She also currently works as a Professor’s Assistant in the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture at Prishtina University. She primarily teaches urbanism, elements of urbanism, urban design and urban planning. Prior to these positions, she worked as a Lecturer on Urbanism at the National University Tetovo, Macedonia; a Consultant for Urban Plus; and an Officer for International Cooperation in the Ministry for Environment and Spatial Planning. Eliza has also published articles, academic journals, and research papers for various institutions and newspapers. She graduated in 2002 from the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture at Prishtina University. Her postgraduate degree is from the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Catholic University of Leuven) in Belgium, where she studied at the Postgraduate Centre for Human Settlements in the Department of Architecture, Urbanism and Planning. Eliza also attended a year-long training on Urban Planning and Management Framework provided by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN–HABITAT).

Emira Ajeti

Emira Ajeti currently works for Novus Consulting as Director of the consulting Practice. Prior to moving to the Private Sector in Kosovo, Emira has worked for almost three (3) years at the Regional Environmental Center (REC) as Expert on Local Initiatives and Civil Society Support with a focus on Green Economy and Sustainable Development. She was also engaged as a Consultant at the Crimson Finance Fund, and some European Commission projects. Emira is an experienced Project Manager, and has had the chance to lead different sizes of project staff, as well as build and nurture relationships with contractors, outsourced partners and teams of different intellectual and cultural backgrounds, for the past five years, in both the Balkans and the US. Moreover, she has nurtured much of her networking, strategic planning, and structural thinking during her challenging role of an International relations Advisor to the Minister of the Economy and Finance of Kosovo, when she led the Kosovo National branding campaign, as well as was in charge of the process of Kosovo’s membership to the IMF, and later on Kosovo’s membership to the World Bank, both successfully concluded on 29th of June 2009. Her Master of Business Administration is from the Bentley University, McCallum Graduate School of Business in Massachusetts. Whereas her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, as well as Journalism and Mass Communication, is from the American University in Bulgaria.During her time in Boston, she also worked as a Consultant on Development of sponsorship packages at Celtics franchise for Boston Celtics, as well as a Business Process Expert for Tufts Medical Center in Boston for a project on the Recruitment process at Tufts Medical Center.

Violeta Zefi

Violeta Zefi is a Psychologist who studied BA & MA degree at University of Prishtina, Department of Psychology. Currently, she is doing her PhD in Social Psychology at Masaryk University (Czech Republic). Violeta currently works at “ISPE” College as a Lecturer. Besides this, she works for Kosovo Association for People Living with HIV/AIDS as a Care Coordinator for people living with HIV/AIDS where she provides specialized case management to people with HIV/AIDS. Violeta is elected as a Local Councillor at the Assembly of Klina Municipality. She was involved in many national and international research projects related to the psycho-social issues in Kosova. She is author of a book “HIV/AIDS and stigma: attitudes of youth toward people living with HIV/AIDS” and of many scientific papers published in national and international journals and of many articles published in daily newspapers.

Suzana Krasniqi

Suzana Krasniqi studied Law in the Catholic University of Brussels and Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Since November 2012 she serves as Senior Legal Adviser at the Constitutional Court of Kosovo. Previously she worked in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Prishtina, Kosovo ( Department for Legal Issues and Treaties)  and before that she also served as Coordinator of the Legal Office at the office of the Prime Minister. In this position, Suzana dealt with coordinating the processes for the drafting and preparations of the statehood Legislation envisaged in the Comprehensive Proposal of the President Ahtisaari within the Office of the Prime Minister. She believes in women’s leadership potential however she believes their capacity needs to be developed further. Suzana was born in Kosovo, lived in Germany and Belgium and returned to Kosovo in 2007.

Afërdita Rushiti

Afërdita Rushiti serves as an Adviser to the Director General of the Radio Television of Kosovo (RTK) since April 2010. In this capacity, Ms. Rushiti function of Professional Associate for program development issues in RTK. Her main responsibilities are to advise the Director General for general international program trends, monitor the implementation of professional standard guidelines of RTK in public media, and prepare a program plan scheme as an aggregate framework of RTK.  From 2002 to 2010, Ms. Rushiti served as Editor in Chief for Radio ‘Blue Sky’. During this time, Ms. Rushiti was in charge of a 24 hour, multilingual program, overseeing public broadcasters, journalists, and 50 other individuals working for the radio station. Ms. Rushiti has worked for IFES as PI Expert; for the University of Prishtina as Assistant Lecturer; with BBC Albania as Producer; and with Radio Free Europe as a Journalist. In 2007, Ms. Rushiti graduated from the Middlesex University in London, Untied Kingdom in Media and Communications Managements, where she received her MA degree. Ms. Rushiti also studied project management, new media, technology, marketing, e-commerce at the IPKO Institute for Management.

Arjeta Emra

Arjeta Emra has served as the Executive Director of the British Council Kosovo since 2000. Prior to her current post, Ms. Emira has worked in the Office of the Prime Minister, as Political Advisor/Liason between the government of Kosovo and Diplomatic Missions of Kosovo, as well as the UN. In addition, Ms. Emra has served as a Program Officer for Community Developmente for USAID/OTI (United States Agency for International Development, Office of Transition Initiatives); Project coordinator for the Nansen Dialogue Centre (part-time volunteer) and Human rights activist for the Council for the Defense of Human Rights and Freedoms. In 1998 she was part of the University of Oslo in the International Summer School on ‘Peace Research’ and ‘International Relations and Foreign Policy’.Ms. Emra studied English Language and Literature in the University of Prishtina and received her BA in 1997. In spring of the same year, Ms. Emra she participated in a Ten Weeks Training Programme on ‘Democracy, Human Tights and Peaceful Conflict Resolution’ in the The Fridtjof Nansen Academy, Lillehammer, Norway.

Brikenda Rexhepi

Brikenda Rexhepi is the Assistant Editor in Chief in KOHA Ditore Newspaper where she mainly is responsible for: selecting stories for print, research, verifying statistics and facts presented in an article, editing content for style guidelines, and assist in print layout.  Ms. Rexhepi has been with KOHA Ditore Newspaper since 1998, and prior to this position she worked as Publishing Editor; Senior Correspondent; Editor and Coordinator of the weekly supplement “And Now Europe”; Editor of International news and politics; and served as a Journalist.  In addition, Ms. Rexhepi works as Lecturer of English Language at the University of Prishtina, Faculty of Philology. In 2009 she received her Master of Science degree on Linguistics from the University of Prishtina. She holds a Bachelors of Arts degree in English Language and Literature from the Faculty of Philosophy and Philology, University of Prishtina, Kosovo.

Iliriana Kaçaniku

Iliriana Kaçaniku serves as the European Integration and Good Governance Program Coordinator for Soros Foundation, Kosovo Foundation for Open Society (KFOS). Prior to this position, Ms. Kaçaniku was the Program Coordinator for the Public Administration and Local Government Program within KFOS. In addition, Ms. Kaçaniku was also engaged with UBO Consulting as a Consultant and Quantitative Data Analyzer; in the Secretariat for Kosovo Development Strategic Planning in Kosovo Government as Consultant/Reporter for the Civil Society Group; at the World Bank Institute in Washington, D.C. as Consultant in Community Empowerment and Social Inclusion Training Program. Ms. Kaçaniku holds a Master of Arts degree in Law and Diplomacy in the field of the International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution & Development Economics, from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University in Massachusetts. This program included: concepts and skills of negotiation for use in diplomacy, business, and law; methods of third-party intervention, from mediation to coercion; new approaches to international intervention, recognizing the roles played by the coordination of political, military, and non-governmental actors. Ms. Kaçaniku received her Masters of Arts in International Politics and Security Studies in 2002 from Bradford University, United Kingdom. Prior to these two degrees, Ms. Kaçaniku studied English Language and Literature from the Faculty of Philosophy and Philology at the University of Prishtina, earning her Bachelors of Arts degree. Ms. Kaçaniku is directly involved in a KFOS project on Communicating with Europe, which through track-two diplomacy, seeks to achieve recognitions from 5 EU member states that have not recognized Kosovo.

Jetmira Bërdynaj

Jetmira Bërdynaj is the Director of the Office for Consular Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Republic of Kosovo. Prior to this position, Ms. Bërdynaj worked as a Senior Officer for Consular Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo. In addition, Ms. Bërdynaj served as the Senior Officer for Regional Dialogue in the Coordination Office for International Cooperation and Regional Dialogue in the Office of Prime Minister of Kosovo. Further to her professional work, Ms. Bërdynaj currently is completing her Master of Sciences studies in Professional Studies and Public Administration in the American University, Kosovo. In June 2004 she received her bachelor degree from the Law Faculty in the University of Prishtina. Ms. Bërdynaj also participated in many trainings and workshops such as: workshop on readmission agreement; a study visit to European Union Institutions; negotiation studies in the European Union Context organized by the European Institute of Public Administration and Regional School of Public Administration; general training in EU Affairs for civil servants; and training on Diplomatic and Consular Law.

Merita Maliqi

Merita Maliqi is a Professor Assistant at “Victory” College in the Department on Foreign Policy and Diplomacy. She is mainly responsible for developing and implementing innovative instructional methods; developing professional logistics to improvise student performance; guiding, leading and mentoring students in research projects; evaluating, monitoring and mentoring student academic progress; creating, innovating and implementing career-enhancement programs and activities, as well as training new academics in the courses of Diplomatic Protocol and International Political Relations. In conjunction with her post as a Professor Assistant, Ms. Maliqi is a Masters Degree candidate, focusing on International Relations and Diplomacy, at “Victory” College. Ms. Maliqi earned her two Bachelors degrees in Political Science in the field of International Relations and Diplomacy from “Victory” College, and English Language and Literature from the Faculty of Philosophy and Philology University of Prishtina, Kosovo.

Shqipe Hajredini

Shqipe Hajredini currently serves in the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Shqipe previously served as the Senior Policy Officer in the Office of the Prime Minister of Kosovo. Her main responsibilities include drafting policies and legislation for communities, developing legal framework, government strategies and programs to ensure the rights of the communities, their interests to be integrated and mainstreamed.  Shqipe also worked as a Senior Legal officer in the Office of the Prime Minister responsible for legal advice to the cabinet. Shqipe worked in international and local non-governmental organizations, including positions as first consultant for the International Relief and Development (IRD) and has extensive experience in coordinating projects related to community development. Ms. Hajredini holds a Master’s Degree in European Studies from the University of Hamburg, Germany. In addition, Ms. Hajredini holds an advanced degree in Law. Ms. Hajredini is fluent in several languages including Albanian, English, Serbian, and French. Ms. Hajredini’s project aimed to create a policy system to better conduct itself for the betterment of the community and act closer to the needs of the citizens of Kosovo.

Teuta Hyseni

Teuta Hyseni is the Senior Officer for Immunities and Privileges in the Department of the State Protocol in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). Prior to this, Ms. Hyseni served as Senior Officer for Protocol, also in the MFA. During 2006 Teuta served as an Executive Assistant in the Cabinet of the Prime Minister, and also as an Assistant to the Provisional Institutions of Self-Government (PISG), and as the Standards Coordinator in the Cabinet of the Prime Minister.  Ms. Hyseni currently is candidate for the Master of Science in Professional Studies in the American University of Kosovo/Rochester Institute of Technology. Her prior educational credentials include a bachelor degree is in English Language and Literature from the Faculty of Philosophy and Philology, University of Prishtina Kosovo.

Ulpiana Lama

Ulpiana Lama is the founder of FoKS (Kosovo Foundation of Solidarity). FoKS consists of a group of public personalities who operate on a voluntary basis for charitable, social, and philanthropic purposes. Each year FoKS identifies a marginalized sector/area and offers assistance. For the second consecutive year, FoKS’ 2009’s project focused on Krusha e Madhe, a location in the municipality of Rahovec, where reside 204 widows and 508 orphans, whose partners and parents were killed during the war. Educationally, Ms. Lama is a PhD candidate in the field of Political Sciences at the National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts (Conservatoire national des arts et métiers CNAM), Paris, France. Ms. Lama’s Masters Degree is on Identity, a multi disciplinary study on Anthropology, Sociology, and Philosophy from the Université Paris 8, Saint Denis, Paris, France; and her bachelor degree is on Social Sciences from the University of Tirana, Albania. Ms. Lama’s other skills include Script Writing abilities, including: features, comments published in national and international media (regular columnist for the daily ZERI, and contributor to Foreign Policy in Albanian); Analytical and Reporting Skills: Author and Co-author of different studies such as “Millennium Development Goals report 2004”, “Media Monitoring on March Events: What After?”, “Domestic Violence in Kosovo”, and “Connection between education policies and job market”; Audio and video-production; documentaries and TV shows produced ; and knowledge of Integrated Management Information System (IMIS). Currently Ms. Lama holds the position of Lecturer in Sociology of Work in the Pjeter Budi University in Prishtina, and she is fluent in Albanian, English, French and Italian.

Vjosa Berisha

Vjosa Berisha is an experienced project manager, management consultant and senior communication expert with an MA in Communication from University of Westminster in London, UK and a PGD in Contemporary Diplomacy from University of Malta.
Berisha is a Managing Partner at B2 agency (2003), a communication and management consulting company with offices in Kosovo and Albania, and founder of the Prishtina International Film Festival (2008), biggest feature film festival in Kosovo.
Berisha has 16+ years of experience in management consulting with specific focus on communication. She started her professional career in Oxfam and UNICEF in early 1999 where she gained experienced in emergency and development projects, to continue working later with various media projects, youth and various social communication projects. Since 2003, she has provided consulting services to private, public, non-government and government organizations as well as international corporations, development organizations and donors. Her experience involves management of projects for USAID, European Commission, NGOs, Government of Kosovo and Albania, including some of the main investment projects and International corporations in Albania.
Berisha is a certified film producer from European Audio Visual Entrepreneurs (EAVE) Producers Workshop (Generation 2015), a leading film production workshop in Europe. She is involved in film producing in Kosovo and Albania.
As a founder and director of Prishtina International Film Festival, Berisha supported developed of a regional educational platform in the field of filmmaking – Prishtina Film FORUM (PriFORUM) which is attended every year by a big number of young filmmakers from the region. International Experts from Europe and United States are invited to attend, lecture and share their knowledge each year at PriFORUM, holding workshops on script development, pitching, film financing, producing, film critique, film distribution and sales (see more www.prifest.org).
Berisha has attended various leadership workshops such as USAID funded Hope Fellowship, a 6 week workshop for women leaders in the field of “Diplomacy and Democracy”. Her project during this study visit in United States (2011) was to visit Embassies of countries that have not recognized Kosovo as a country. Her and 10 women leaders from Kosovo that were attending the workshop visited some 15 embassies based in Washington DC promoting Kosovo from the perspective of human rights, business and academia. Other workshops include School of European Integration (2009), Kosovo Civil Society Leaders Training Program (2012) etc.
Berisha has produced a number of documentaries, television productions, short films and public service announcements.
For more information please contact vjosa@B2agency.com

Ardita Metaj

Ardita Metaj is the Residential Adviser for the Swedish Institute for Public Administration International (SIPU). She works on the EU funded Technical Assistance for Civil Society Organizations (TACSO) project specializing in Pre-Accession Assistance Countries. Ardita is responsible for the overall implementation and financial management of the project. She develops and implements work plans and project initiatives designed to bolster civil society in Kosovo. Ardita has gained extensive experience through almost 12 years of work as a legal expert/advisor and project coordinator for various international and national institutions including: USAID Justice System Reform Activity Project, National Centre for State Courts, Agriculture Statistics, and Policy Advisory Unit Kosovo (ASPAUK) which is funded by the European Agency for Reconstruction (EAR).  Additionally, she worked for the National Legal Advisor for the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Temporary Media Commissioner and as a legal assistant for the American Bar Association.  Most recently, Ardita worked as the Project Coordinator at the Humanitarian Law Center- Kosovo- Minority Rights in Practice. She is also a founding member of the International Media Lawyers Association.  Ardita graduated from the Law Faculty of Prishtina University in 2002 and holds a certificate in Media Law and Policies from the Center for Socio-Legal Studies at Oxford University. She is currently a Master’s Candidate in the Philosophy Department at Prishtina University, with a focus on Civil Society and Local Governance.

Arjeta Sahiti

Arjeta Sahiti is the Coordinator of the Social Policy Desk in the Office of the Prime Minister of Kosovo. One of her main responsibilities is to establish close working relationships with Permanent Secretaries and additional staff from the assigned ministries in order to monitor developments and initiatives that may require the government meetings and its working groups’ consideration. Moreover, Arjeta serves as the chair and participates in inter-ministry meetings, representing the Office of the Prime Minister, to achieve proper coordination of the governments’ social policies. Previously, Arjeta was Personal Assistant to the Prime Minister, which entailed helping him carry out his duties and responsibilities as well as managing activities between the Office of the Prime Minister and the offices of political advisers, ministries and other bodies. Arjeta studied Political Science and Public Administration at Prishtina University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree at the American University of Kosovo, with a focus on professional studies in Public Administration.

Arlinda Likaj

Arlinda Likaj is Coordinator for European Integration in the Office of Prime Minister of Kosovo. She offers assistance and advice in determining the Office’s priorities, taking into account obligations stemming from the European Integration process. Her position also entails coordinating work while developing key strategic documents drafted by a given ministry, ensuring that documents are in compliance with the government’s policies and maintaining uniformity among policies. She is also responsible for upholding consistency between policies, plans, strategies and the EU standards. Arlinda ensures the development of an interactive system, which will facilitate coordination between the processes of developing policies and plans and of budgetary planning in a given ministry. Prior to this post, she worked for the Government Coordination Secretariat as Senior Officer for Social Policies. Arlinda received her Bachelor’s Degree from Prishtina University in Political Science and Public Administration. She holds a Master’s of Science in Public Policy and Management from the King’s College London at the University of London.

Merita Bytyçi-Kelmendi

Merita Bytyçi-Kelmendi is the Finance and Administration Manager at the PILPG Kosovo Office. She also helps with implementing the Justice and the People Campaign, a civil society advocacy campaign promoting access to justice for Kosovo citizens. Merita ran the validity and verification process of more than 13000 signatures of citizens who signed the Campaign’s Citizen Legislative Initiative to amend Article 69 of the Law on Public Financial Management and Accountability to permit recovery of non-economic damages by victims of human rights violations. Merita has bachelor’s degree in Journalism. Prior to PILPG she worked with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe -OSCE, European Union Monitoring Mission -EUMM and other local companies. She is also member of the parents’ support group at Down Syndrome Kosova.

Kaltrina Ademi

Kaltrina Ademi has worked as the Officer for Consular Policy in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Department for Consular Affairs since June 2011. Her responsibilities include: drafting Consular Policy for the Consular Missions abroad, providing information to applicants and personnel, and provides suggestions and recommendations related to Consular issues. She also assists in the development of ministerial plans and reports, and participates in working groups concerning legal and sub legal acts pertaining to Consular issues. Kaltrina maintains contacts with all diplomatic missions from other countries in Prishtina.  Prior to this position, Kaltrina worked as an Assistant in the Department for Legal Issues, Treaties and Human Rights in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additionally she worked as a Synchronizer at the Radio Television of Kosova’s Educational Program and a Monitor at the Assembly of The Republic of Kosova with the Kosovo Democratic Institute. She studied Law at the University of Prishtina and holds a Master’s Degree in Excellence in Public Service from the American University of Kosova.

Lirie Lokaj

Lirie Lokaj is a Psychologist by profession and is currently working for the NGO Terre des Hommes as School Psychologist Coordinator. She organizes trainings and workshops on strengthening the role of School Psychologists. Along with other project team members, Lirie is responsible for monitoring and coaching all children (the beneficiaries of the project) through joint counseling and case management. She also provides technical assistance as well as professional back-up and counseling to referral schools. Lirie meets with all relevant duty bearers of the Task Force to provide support for case management as well as counseling to children and families under their protection.  She conducts psycho-social counseling sessions with children and/or their families based on both personal requests and according to need, as identified by social workers. Previously, Lirie has worked as an Online Counselor for the foundation Together Kosovo and as a Consulting Volunteer for SOS Help Line.  Lirie studied Psychology at the Department of Psychology at Prishtina University. Her Master’s Degree is in Clinical Psychology from the Albanian University in Tirana. Lirie is currently attending training on Family and Systematic Therapy at the European Family Therapy Association.

Arbenita Mjekiqi

Arbenita Mjekiqi works as Senior Legal Officer for EU legislation, in the Department of Law of the EU, the Ministry of European Integration of the Republic of Kosovo, since 2013. Ms. Mjekiqi prior to this position was engaged for a year as Senior Officer for Internal Market, in the Department of Economic Criteria and Internal Market, at the same institution. Her responsibilities of this current work include the coordination and management of the alignment of national legislation with EU legislation (acquis), providing legal expertise in the process of harmonization of national legislation with EU acquis, providing legal assistance in drafting process of the National Plan for the Implementation of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement and the legal interpretation of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement, pursuits EU policies and provides legal assistance in the field of legislation and the transposition of the EU acquis in national legislation, cooperates and coordinates with other state administrative bodies in the process of approximation of legislation in the process of European integration, and provides professional legal training in the field of alignment of national legislation with the EU acquis. Also, since 2013, Ms. Mjekiqi is engaged as lecturer in “UBT College”, in the course of “The Law of Internal Market of the EU” and “Company Law”. Moreover, since 2014, Ms. Mjekiqi is Certified Legal Trainer and provides training for servants of public administration, in the field of “Alignment of National Legislation with EU legislation”, at the Kosovo Institute for Public Administration. Ms. Mjekiqi prior to this position was engaged as Manager of Supply and Head of Legal Office in the Department of Supply in Public Enterprise District Heating “Termokos” and so on. She holds two Master Degrees, one in European Economic and Financial Law from the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Catholic University of Leuven) in Belgium and Financial Law from the Law Faculty of the Prishtina University. Her Bachelor Degree is in Law from the Law Faculty of the Prishtina University. Also, she has an expanded and a number of certifications in various areas of law. Ms. Mjekiqi is co-author of two publications “Comparative Highlights of the laws of the Foundation”, realized from the Central European Foundation, July 2015, Brussels, Belgium, and the “The operating environment for Public-Benefit Foundations in the Western Balkans Region”, conducted by the European Foundation Centre, November 2014, Brussels, Belgium.

Artane Rizvanolli

Artane Rizvanolli holds a Bachelor Degree in Economics, Finance and Statistics from the Economic Faculty at the Prishtina University. Her Master of Science is on Economics for Business Analysis at the Staffordshire University, UK. And her PhD is again in Economics at the Staffordshire University, UK. Ms. Rizvanolli currently works as Chair of the Department for Staffordshire University within Riinvest College in Prishtina, Kosovo. She is also a lecturer at Riinvest College teaching International Business and Research Methods simultaneously is local supervisor for Staffordshire University PhD students. Ms. Rizvanolli joined the Institute for Development Research – Riinvest in 2006 as a researcher, and currently works as a senior researcher identifying, composing, and handling project activities. She is specialized in questionnaire drafting and design, project and rapport; she mainly conducts Economic Policy Research. Ms. Rizvanolli so far published over 24 publications and research projects.

Mimoza Gojani

Mimoza Gojani currently works for the British Embassy in Prishtina as an EU Officer. Her main tasks include: monitoring progress of the European Union’s Enlargement Strategy, including the development of Kosovo’s relationship with EU. She works directly with the European Union Rule of Law Mission (EULEX).  Prior to this position, Mimoza acted as Senior European Affairs Officer for the Kosovo Government in the Cabinet of Deputy Prime Minister. She has also worked as a Liaison Officer for Kosovo at the Regional School of Public Administration in Maastricht, as a Fellow at the European Policy Centre in Brussels, as Administrative Coordinator for the Constitutional Commission in Prishtina, and as a Researcher for the Youth Initiative for Human Rights. Mimoza’s project focuses on public diplomacy, as it seeks to empower citizens to contribute to Kosovo’s foreign policy goals. She holds a Master’s of Arts in EU International Relations and Diplomacy Studies from the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium. She also completed the Academy Year program in Philosophy, Art History, Literature and Intellectual History at the European College of Liberal Arts in Berlin, Germany. Mimoza’s Bachelors Degree is in Political Science from Prishtina University.

Valbona Fazliu-Rrecaj

Valbona Fazliu-Rrecaj is the Head of Secretariat for the Government’s Joint Coordination Board for the Rule of Law in Kosova and consultant to the Deputy Prime Minister/Minister of Justice of the Republic of Kosova under the Office of the Prime Minister. Valbona has previously worked as a consultant for the Department of International Development (DFID) and PricewaterhouseCoopers, supporting the Government’s rule of law developments at a strategic policy level. Prior to her current post, Valbona had been a staff member of the United Nation Mission in Kosova (UNMIK) since 1999. Additionally, she has worked as an Administrative Assistant for the UNMIK Administration in the Skenderaj Municipality and for the Internal Oversight Unit, Office of the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General, UNMIK Civil Administration. Beginning in 2004, Valbona worked for the Liaison Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary General UNMIK to the Prime Minister. These positions have enabled Valbona to serve under every Kosovar Prime Minister, which has been a unique experience in terms of exposure to institutional state building processes and the ability to influence those from the outset. She is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in International Law/Relations at Prishtina University. She received her Bachelor’s in English Language and Literature from the Faculty of Philosophy and Philology at the University of Prishtina, Kosovo.

Arbërie Nagavci

Arbërie Nagavci is a Principal of the Primary School “Yll Morina” in Gjakova since 2006. She is mainly responsible to manage and organize the work within the school, manage learning process and extra curricular activities, supervision of the staff, work closely with professional partners and so on.  Prior to this position she was an Albanian Language and literature teacher in the same school. Arberie graduated from Law Faculty in the University of Prishtina in 2004. Whether in 1991 she graduated from Pedagogical College in Gjakova for an Albanian Language and literature teacher.  Currently she is in the master program in
the Prishtina University. 

Burbuqe Grajçevci

Burbuqe Grajçevci is Human Resource Officer in the Privatization Agency of Kosovo. She is responsible for recruitment, interviewing and selection, staff relations and support; developing and maintaining policies and procedures and so on. Previously Burbuqe worked for an OSCE project, Student’s Services Center LINK as Coordinator / Career Councilor.  Burbuqe holds a bachelor degree on Psychology from Prishtina University and currently is candidate for master in research also in the University of Prishtina.

Diturie Hoxha

Diturie Hoxha since 2005 is an Executive Director for Kosovo Banker’s Association where she manages day to day work of the Association; represents the collective commercial banks in contacts with Central Bank, government, media and public opinion, social partners; develops position papers for the banking sector and so on.  Diturie studied Political Science in the Prishtina University, whether her master degree is in Business Administration from IEDC Schools of Management in Bled, Slovenia.

Drita Haxhaj

Drita Haxhaj is Education Inspector in the Inspection Department in the regional office in Peja created by the Ministry of education Science and Technology. Prior to this position Drita was officer for gender and community in the regional office in Peja. She was also a teacher for about seven years in Peja region.

Fadile Dyla

Fadile Dyla studied in the University of Prishtina, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture and received a diploma as an Architect in 1998. Since January 2002 Fadile is Director of Department of Infrastructure and Technical Services, in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. Her responsibilities include: Improve an adequate and healthy environment for teaching and learning; Develop and monitoring standards and guide lines for designing and building education buildings; Managing and Monitoring infrastructure of more than 1200 education buildings in Kosovo; Building more than 120 new schools and renovation of 55 schools; Coordination with donors and Municipality of Kosovo; Preparing and controlling
engineering technical documents; preparing the priority list of investments and so on.

Mirushe Latifaj

Mirushe Latifaj is Private Higher Education and Training Officer in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. She mainly deals with licensing of private higher education institutions; visit, monitor and inspect the private educational institutions; verifications of diplomas issues by private colleges and so on.  Mirushe studied English Language and Literature and received bachelor degree in 2005 from Prishtina University.  Currently is a student in the Master of Science in Professional Studies in Rochester Institute of Technology-American University of Kosovo.

Shpresa Kika

Shpresa Kika since 2004 works for ProCredit Bank, for almost two years she is in a Senior Marketing Officer position. Shpresa is responsible for organizing all the issues relating to the marketing and promotion activities of the bank; writing and launching marketing campaigns for different products for business departments etc. Shpresa is a business oriented woman leader she received certificate in General Business in 2008 from Malvern House International Ltd in London, UK. From 2002-2004 she attended a Hyper Island (Advanced Professional Education & Training) in cooperation with IPKO Institute Management Program where she received Management Diploma. Shpresa did
also Business Management, Finance and Corporation Financial
Reports in Vienna, Austria.

Taibe Canolli

Taibe Canolli currently serves as Head of Department for Administration and Personnel in Kosovo Police. She joined Kosovo Police in 2000 and since then she was acting head of the center for public safety education and development; head of training department; deputy regional commander for administration; police station commander and so on.

Valbonë Kadrijaj

Valbonë Kadrijaj is Head of Training Center within the Kosovo Energy Corporation.  Her main activities and responsibilities include initiating the training needs analyses for all KEK staff; coordinate, manage and execute the training needs analyses; manage the preparation, implementation and assessment of the trainings and so on. Prior to this position she was Technical Training Coordinator in Training Department in KEK. For a long period of time Valbonë was teacher in Technical schools in Prishtina and Deçan. She studied in the University of Prishtina in Technical Faculty and received her diploma in 1993 and became Mechanical Engineer.

Vera Rexhepi

Vera Rexhepi completed her Master of Science in Management and Environment from Lancaster University in UK. Her bachelor degree is in Psychology from the Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology in the Prishtina University. She also holds another bachelor degree in Social Work from Faculty of Philosophy, also Prishtina University. Vera currently is working for the Ministry of Economy and Finance as Senior Officer in the European Integration Office. She is responsible for preparing and organizing the Stabilization-Association Tracking Mechanism plenary meetings; Analyzing the European Commission Progress
Report, addressing the challenges with the relevant Agencies and Departments etc.

Vjollca Godanci

Vjollca Godanci is a resident doctor in the Department internal clinic in the Nephrology of the University Clinic of Kosovo. She is also a general practitioner in the private clinic “Galaxy”. In both institutions she has leading positions; in University Clinic of Kosovo she is Coordinator for resident doctors where she represents 120 resident doctors in the committee for internal medicine. Whereas, in the private clinic “Galaxy” she holds the position of staff coordinator. She studied in the medical faculty in Tirana, Albania and currently she is finalizing her specialization in nephrology.

Albina Berisha

Albina Berisha serves as the Small and Micro Enterprise (SME) Officer at the Community Development Fund (CDF). Her responsibilities include promoting the SME component to municipalities, communities and other stakeholders; determining the eligibility of enterprises for receiving grants in accordance with guidelines set by World Bank; evaluating the suitability of pre-selected beneficiaries for grant awards; managing the proper allocation of grants and resources to selected enterprises; and coordinating SME activities from project design to implementation. Prior to this position, Ms. Berisha worked for a management consulting company, Management and Development Associates (MDA) as Business Development Manager. She holds an MBA in International Management from the Monterey Institute of International Studies in Monterey, California, United States, and Bachelors of Science in Management and Public Policy from American University in Kosovo.

Arijeta Pajaziti - Qerimi

Arijeta Pajaziti-Qerimi is currently working as SCADA Developer at the System Operator Department in KOSTT j.s.c (Electricity Transmission System and Market Operator of Republic of Kosovo). Ms. Pajaziti-Qerimi provides support and maintenance for the SCADA Control system at the National Control Center. At this facility, she maintains the Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to insure uninterrupted power transmission and system operation; designs, develops, documents and implements changes to the SCADA system to support National Dispatch Center’s operations and engineering projects; and builds SCADA databases to acquire data from Remote Terminal Units (RTU) and works with Control Center personnel to design and implement graphic displays to support electricity system operation. Ms. Pajaziti-Qerimi is responsible for writing and preparation of technical specifications regarding SCADA requirements for incoming Projects and implementation supervision. Prior to this position, Ms. Pajaziti-Qerimi worked for Kosovo Energy Corporation as a telecommunication engineer, internet administrator and IT system developer for more than seven years.  Ms. Pajaziti-Qerimi holds a five year advanced studies degree in Electrical Engineering from Prishtina University.

Dhurata Prokshi

Dhurata Prokshi is the Head of the Regional Office at Caritas in Prishtina, Kosova. Ms. Prokshi is responsible for drafting projects, administrative duties, field work, organizing seminars and workshops, communicating with donors and partners, assisting the General Director in meetings, as well as representing and promoting the organization. Prior to this position, Ms. Prokshi worked as an English Teacher in “Aziz Sylejmani” public school in Mitrovica, Kosovo. Ms. Prokshi is currently a Master of Arts candidate in Sociology at the University of Prishtina, where her study’s concentrations include: Theories of Sociology and Methodology; Sociology of Development; Sociology of Religious and Ethnic Identity; Art and Society; Methodology of Research; Epistemology of Science and Social Stratification. Ms. Prokshi holds a Bachelors degree in Sociology from the University of Prishtina.

Eglantina Hoxha

Eglantina Hoxha Kastrati works as Stakeholders and Events Manager for Kosovo Energy Corporation (KEK) in Prishtina, Kosovo. Ms. Kastrati supervises KEK’s key stakeholder relationships by serving as main contact liaison, organizing meetings, and conferences. Furthermore, Ms. Kastrati writes KEK operational briefings and communications for their key stakeholders. Previously, Ms. Kastrati was engaged as the Representative in the Legal Department in KEK; Executive Assistant to Deputy Managing Director of KEK Joint Stock Company (JSC)  and Executive Director of Corporate Services. Eglantina Graduated from the Law Faculty in University of Prishtina in 2008, and holds a bachelor degree in Law.

Gentina Jusufi

Gentina Jusufi is a Fiscal Policy Senior Analyst at the Department for Economic and Fiscal Policy in the division of Fiscal Policy with the Ministry of Finance. Ms. Jusufi is responsible for analyzing and conducting research on new fiscal policies or changes in current policies; researching the impact new fiscal policy and changes will affect budget, and economic and social welfare decision-making; following and comparing Regional and EU fiscal policies with Kosovo; confirming the legal status of department decisions and track their implementation. Prior to this position, Ms. Jusufi worked as Chief of Office at the Permanent Secretary Office in the Ministry of Economy and Finance. In this capacity, she prepared reports and correspondence for the Permanent Secretary (PS), gave recommendations on pending issues, delegated responsibilities, and kept continuous contacts with all the Departments of the Ministry to check and support the implementation of their responsibilities.  Ms. Jusufi holds a Masters degree in General Economics from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KUL), and received her Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Business Development and Management (Major) and Public Policy (Minor) from the American University of Kosovo.

Ilire Rizvanolli

Ilire Rizvanolli studied in the University of Prishtina, Faculty of Architecture. In 1989 she continued in the Faculty of Economics also from the Prishtina University. In Kensington & Chelsea College in London, UK she completed the course on Executive Personal Assistant. In London Ilire worked in Language Line Interpreting Services as Interpreter/translator where she provided interpreting-over-the-phone services from Albanian to English and vice versa; assisted English high-level personnel in understanding the problems and issues faced by Kosovar Albanian refugees in England; assisted with completion of federal regulatory paperwork from Albanian to English etc. Since back from UK Ilire worked in Interim Credit Unit, Prishtina as Credit Officer; in Kosovo Business Women’s Network as Administrative and Program Manager; in Kosovo Gender Studies Centre as Administrative and Finance Coordinator. In April 2006 she established her own restaurant “Te Komiteti” in Prishtina as she is responsible for running the business in daily basis; managing clients, food preparation & serving; managing stock & supplies, the staff and finances; organizing various events and parties such as 4th of July event in the US Embassy Prishtina and so on.

Ilirjana Mejzini

Ilirjana Mejzini currently works at the Ministry of Environment & Spatial Planning, Department of Spatial Planning as Coordinator of Urban Cooperation. Ms. Mejzini’s duties include monitoring and assisting the local level urban development, and coordinating with national-level European Associations and Strategies of Regional Land-Use toward Sustainable Development. Also in her current capacity, Ms. Mejzini leads the inter-ministerial working group drafting and issuing the Urban Permit for “important and specific buildings for Kosovo” with Environmental Impact Assessments; and coordinates activities of different Ministry divisions with international organizations that operate in Kosovo. Ms. Mejzini’s prior professional experiences include Architect for the ECT Engineering & Consulting Company for the Department of Justice within United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). Ms. Mejzini holds a Masters Degree on Spatial Planning & Regional Development from Blekinge Institute of Technology, International Department for Land-use in Sweden. In addition, she holds a Bachelors degree in Architecture from the University of Prishtina.

Lejla Sadiku

Lejla Sadiku worked as a researcher at the Romanian Academic Society in Bucharest, Romania; consultant for the World Bank and for the Youth Initiative for Human Rights in Prishtina, as well as other engagements in Kosovo and beyond. In May 2010 she received her Master on Public Policy from the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, Germany whereas her Bachelor degree is in Business Administration and Political Science from the American University in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria.

Leonita Shabani

Leonita Shabani holds a Bachelor degree in International Business from Iliria University in Prishtina. She was awarded her MBA in International Economic Relations from South East European University (SEEU) in Tetovo, Macedonia. Currently she is studying Law, at the Faculty of Law - University of Prishtina.  Leonita currently serves as Chief of Cabinet and Spokesperson at the Minister’s Cabinet in the Ministry of Economic Development. Her main duties are to manage protocol activities; manage daily processes and activities, organize and participate in meetings and activities within the Minister’s Cabinet; establish communication and exchange information with Kosovo diplomatic representatives and foreign diplomatic representatives operating in Kosovo; organize different important events (conferences, forums, etc.); co-ordinate activities on governmental levels with the Minister’s Cabinets; represent publicly the Ministry’s policies, strategies, etc.  Previously Leonita worked as Chief of Minister’s Cabinet at the Ministry of European Integration, and at the President’s Cabinet at the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce. She began her career as the Information Officer at the Euro Info Correspondence Center within the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce.

Leonora Hysenaj

Leonora Hysenaj currently works for Kosovo Energy Corporation J.S.C., Network Division as Manager of the Project Implementation Unit and she is responsible for successful delivery of all capital and new works projects. She is also responsible for supervision of rehabilitation of existing small HPP’s; develop expertise in project management capabilities, feasibility studies, project costing, tender documentation and contract management. She supervises project budget controls and CAPEX funding in addition to contributing to the Development of medium to long term strategies for her organization’s networks. In the past she worked for UNMIK EU Pillar – Kosovo Trust Agency in the Energy Division as Project Officer; UNMIK EU Pillar – Kosovo Trust Agency as Assistant to Administrative Officer.  Leonora graduated from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at University of Prishtina, her Master of Science is in Service Management is from the Rochester Institute of Technology through American University in Kosovo.

Zana Sulhasi - Zherka

Zana Sulhasi - Zherka is Product Development Coordinator at the Post Telecommunication of Kosovo J.S.C. Her main responsibilities include leading research and development projects for new telecom products. She works with business, financial, and forecasting analysts to introduce new products, modifies and repositions existing products, and introduces products into existing markets. Zana started working for Post Telecommunication of Kosovo J.S.C. in 2005 as an Interconnection Officer. She was later promoted to Regional Financial Officer. Previously she worked for the Economic Bank as a Loan Officer. Zana currently is a Master of Arts candidate in Banking and Finance at the University of Prishtina. Her bachelor degree is also from the University of Prishtina in Management and Informatics from the Economic Faculty. Zana is certified as an “Accountant” and “Accountant Technician” from the Society of Certified Accountants and Auditors of Kosova. She is in the process to become a Certified Auditor. She is also certified from Malta International Training Center in “Banking and Finance”. Furthermore, she studied Project Management, MOS 2010 (Microsoft Office Specialist-Excel), E-Marketing and Sales Management at the Center for Trainings and Development within PTK.

Adelina Nura

Adelina Nura received her Bachelor Degree on Applied Psychology from the University of Prishtina in 2005. Currently is MA Degree candidate in Clinical Psychology in University of Prishtina. As of October 2008 she works for the NGO “Protection of Victims and Prevent Trafficking of Human Beings (PVPT)” as Rehabilitation Officer. Her main tasks include facilitating daily psychosocial activities; conducting psychological, educational and relaxing activities and managing cases – victims of trafficking.  Previously she worked for Prishtina Summer University as administrative assistant/intern mainly dealt with student’s requirements. She also worked as counsellor in telephone helpline where she offered emotional support for people in need; Project Assistant for Hope and Homes for Children and so on. She also equipped herself professionally by participating in many seminars and trainings mainly with social welfare component.

Arbenita Pajaziti

Arbenita Pajaziti is Head of Supply Unit in the Pharmaceutical Department in the Ministry of Health. At the same time she is Expert on Reviewing Tender Complains in the Procurement Review Body. Prior she was Professor’s Teaching Assistant, subject on Managing Drug Supply in the Pharmaceutical Department, Medical Faculty of the Prishtina University. Arbenita’s undergraduate degree is on Pharmacy from the Pharmaceutical Department, Medical Faculty of the Prishtina University. She also studied in the University for Business and Technology and became International Expert on Public Procurement. Currently is undertaking a PhD studies from Tirana University and Master Studies on Public Procurement and Management from the University for Business and Technology, as well as Specialization on Clinical Pharmacy in the Ministry of Health in an on-going.

Blerta Sulhasi

Blerta Sulhasi is Psychology Teacher at Gymnasium “Hajdar Dushi” in Gjakova. She teaches general psychology to 11th and 12th form students, supervises student operating magazine, and provides counseling services to students in need to discuss personal issues and challenges. Prior to this position Blerta worked as Research Supervisor for UNICEF, Kosovo; as Psycho-Educative Staff for Children for Tomorrow; TV and Radio Show Psychologist for Television SYRI in Gjakova; Researcher for War Child and World Child; and Environmental Coordinator for Kosovo Youth Council. Blerta holds a Master of Science on Clinical Psychology from Prishtina University, whereas her Bachelor degree is on Psychology also from Prishtina University.

Merita Emini - Sadiku

Merita Emini-Sadiku is an Internal Mediciane Specialist and currently works as Assistant in Internal medicine in the Medical Faculty of the Prishtina University. Prior to this position she was in the Resident program of the University Clinical Centre of Kosovo (UCCK) in the Internal Medicine Department as a Resident Doctor. She was also engaged as Medical Doctor in the Family Medicine Centre in Obiliq; as a Medical Coordinator in the Kosovo Rehabilitation Centre of Tortured Victims and so on. She graduated from the University of Tirana in the Medical Faculty as Medical Doctor. Following with the Postdoctoral studies for Master of Science in Prishtina University, whereas specialization in Internal Medicine and sub-specialization in Endocrinology she completed in the University Clinical Centre of Kosovo. Currently is a PhD candidate in the University of Zagreb. Merita’s project is the Establishment of Professional Association for Diabetes Mellitus.

Mimoza Ahmetaj

Mimoza Ahmetaj is a Medical Doctor with a vast advisory experience and considerable expertise in politics, health policy, and gender and human rights affairs projects in Kosovo.  Currently is self-employed as a Dentist in a Private Clinic and Adviser on Health Issue to the Prime Minister of Kosovo.  Prior to this position Mimoza was Member of the Kosovo Assembly for two years, where she mainly was responsible for representing the interests of the people in Kosovo, especially regarding health issues; advising on health policy, social welfare and human rights in Kosovo; developing and implementing policy and strategy for health and social welfare; conducting research, monitoring progress, and presenting political opinion, laws and recommendations at committee level and so on. Earlier she was engaged as Medical Doctor / Orthodontics in the Medical Faculty, Dental School in Prishtina and Skopje University for three years. Mimoza’s educational background includes Dentistry from the Prishtina University, Specialization in Orthodontics also from the Prishtina University and currently is on MA studies in Health Management in Prishtina and Vienna University.

Nezahat Ramadani - Salihu

Nezahat Ramadani-Salihu is National Director of the SOS Children’s Villages Kosovo, which is an independent non-governmental social development organization. SOS works in the spirit of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. With the SOS Children’s Village concept, the organization pioneered a family approach to the long-term care of orphaned and abandoned children. Her responsibilities to lead manage and develop the national association as its chief executive, ensuring effective delivery of programs and services to children and youth, families and communities within the frame of the organizations’ vision, mission and values. Prior to this position Nezahate was SOS Kindergarten Director; Program officer in Quality Education in Catholic Relief Services; Project Officer in Trauma Recovery Project again with the Catholic Relief Services etc. Nezahate studied Pedagogy in Philosophic Faulty in the University of Prishtina. Her second undergraduate degree is still on-going in Engineering from the Technical Faculty in the Prishtina University.

Nora Binishi

Nora Binishi is an Engineer of Architecture, graduated in 1991 from the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture in Prishtina University. She also holds a Masters of Science in Professional Studies, in Public Administration issues from the American University in Kosovo. As of December 2006 Nora is Chief of Construction Sector in the Ministry of Public Administration. Her main responsibilities include organizing technical maintenance works in Government buildings; supervising technical maintenance works in Government buildings; supervising the renovation’s works in Government buildings; Working in PIP programs (investments programs) designed by Ministry of Economy and Finance and so on. Previously she was engaged as Engineer of accommodation in the Ministry of Public Administration; Site engineer in construction company “Nartel”; Engineer in shelter program – architect in Non Governmental Organization “Norwegian Refugee Council”; Engineer in shelter program – architect International Rescue Committee and so on

Zarife Miftari

Zarife Miftari originally comes from Medvegja, Presheva Valley, however now lives and works in Prishtina. Currently she serves at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Office in Prishtina as Project Manager. Zarife is mainly responsible to co-operate with Governmental counterparts and NGOs; contributes in formulating and designing projects; develop policies; establish appropriate execution and monitoring mechanisms and so on. Simultaneously she is engaged in the Prishtina Municipal Court as Forensic Expert. Previously she worked for the University of Prishtina in Medical Faculty as Associate Professor. Zarife studied Medicine in the University of Tirana, Medical Faculty and graduated in 2000 with the title Medical Doctor. In 2001 she joined University of Prishtina, Institute of Forensic Medicine and became Specialist of Forensic Medicine. In 2002 Zarife received her Master Degree in Forensic Medicine from the Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Dundee in Dundee, Scotland, UK.

Alketa Bala

Alketa Bala is an Advocacy Coordinator for The Justice and the People Campaign which is a movement that brings together citizens and civil society groups in Kosovo to work for reform in the justice system and promote change through public advocacy. Alketa is mainly responsible for organizing and promoting grassroots advocacy efforts aiming at promoting reform within justice system; developing and managing contacts with strategic stakeholders including civil society, local and central government; planning, managing and implementing advocacy related activities; developing PR strategy; utilizing social media in the advocacy campaign and so on. Prior to this position Alketa was an Outreach and Public Education Officer for Systems for Enforcing Agreements and Decisions Program; Project Coordinator for NGO Kosova Support Group and so on. She was awarded with Master Degree on Public Relations and Marketing Communication from South East European University - Faculty of Communication in Skopje, Macedonia in 2013. Her Bachelor degree is on Sociology and English Literature from Prishtina University.

Florentina Grubi

Florentina Grubi is Lawyer by profession; her Bachelor Degree is from the Law Faculty in Prishtina University. Advanced Master in Intellectual Property Law and Knowledge
Management (LLM/MSc) she received from the Faculty of Law at Maastricht University, Netherlands. Currently Florentina works for SDP KOSOVË which is an intellectual property law firm located in Prishtina, Kosovo as an Associate / Patent and Trademark Agent. She is responsible for handling trademark and patent prosecution, as well as domain name matters. She works closely with international Attorneys and Senior Advisors to provide consultancy on numerous intellectual property issues for businesses and major clients, advising and liaising with clients, ensuring accuracy and effective maintenance of client records and keeping abreast of latest developments, guidelines and procedures. Previously she worked as Project Assistant for Kosovar Civil Society Foundation; Consultant for Kosovo Private Enterprise Program; Legal Assistant for Law Firm and so on.

Ilire Daija _Buza

Ilire Daija-Buza is awarded with Master of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Sheffield in Thessaloniki, Greece. Her Bachelor Degree is on Management and Informatics from Iliria University in Prishtina. She is also Certified Accountant in Kosovo from the Society of Certified Accountants and Auditors of Kosovo (SCAAK).  Ilire works for the Office of the Auditor General as of 2004 in various positions, as of September 2012 is the Head of Cabinet/Public Relations. Her tasks include reporting and accountable before the Auditor General; part of the Quality Framework and involved in development of managerial competencies; securing cultural understanding in the communication between the Auditor General, staff and stakeholders; overseeing and securing implementation and development of the external and internal communication policies and so on.

Lea Shllaku

Lea Shllaku as of November 2012 works in the Ministry of Trade and Industry as Senior Investment Promotion Officer at the Investment Promotion Agency of Kosovo. She is mainly responsible to provide information and advisory services to investors for the purpose of facilitating investment decisions, the establishment of businesses, and the establishment of business contracts; advice public authorities regarding their obligations and other matters relating to foreign investment; undertake the following activities to improve the perception of Kosovo as an attractive place for investment: the conduct of targeted advertising campaigns, the organization of public relations events (exhibitions, investor forums, and seminars), and the provision of information to and liaising with public media; develop tools and suggesting actions for sustainable development of the private sector and so on. Previously Lea worked at the Ministry of Local Government Administration as Policy Intern; New Moment, New Ideas Kosovo as Client Service Director and so on. Lea holds an MA in Institutions, Development & Globalization from the University College London, United Kingdom. Her education also includes Double major in Media & Graphic Communication-Management, minor in Legal Studies from the American University in Kosovo.

Majlinda Mazelliu

Majlinda Mazelliu is Deputy Executive Director for NGO Women in Business and is responsible for daily operations management; overseeing the finances and administration; representing the NGO as per authorization by the executive director; developing sustainable operational projects; compiling of business plans and so on. She is also co-publisher of Kosova at a Glance online newspaper at the NL Company & EMI where she is responsible for editing English version of the online newspaper. Previously Majlinda was engaged as Deputy Director for NGO Women for Women International – Kosova; Co-editor of World News in”Dita” local newspaper; Quality Assurance Manager Consultant for Private Bearer of Higher Education and so on. Majlinda is awarded with Master of Business Administration, MBA from the Staffordshire University, UK. Her bachelor degree is in English Teacher for High Schools, University of Tirana in the Faculty of Foreign Languages. Her informal education includes: Academy of Strategic Planning and Fundraising, Forum for Civic Society in Kosovo; Academy of Women in Leadership from National Democratic Institute in Kosovo; Program Specialist of Local Economic Development, University of Prishtina and AAB Riinvest, funded by Tempus.

Veprore Shehu

Veprore Shehu as the leader of the non-governmental organization “Medica Kosova”, supports women survivors of sexual violence during the war through psychosocial counseling, gynecological assistance, legal aid and income-generating programs in the sector of agriculture. Out of totally 6,500 women who received services in Medica Kosova, the organization supported over 146 outspoken survivors of sexual violence since 2004, while achieved to improve the living conditions of 120 war widowed farmers from Dukagjini Region after supplying them with tractors, bees and cows for increasing their farming activities. She is one of the first NGO leaders who addressed restorative access to justice for the survivors of wartime rape and prepared three witnesses to document rape at EULEX War Crimes Unit.Mrs. Veprore Shehu is very active in the field of advocacy and lobby for integrating gender perspectives in public policies. She was part of many working groups for drafting the Law on Gender Equality, National Action Plan for the Implementation of UNSC Res 1325 and continues to be part of the National Council for the Survivors of Sexual Violence established by the President of Kosova HE Atifete Jahjaga.

Rozafa Ramadani

Rozafa Ramadani holds a Master of Science from the Faculty of Economics in the University of Prishtina.  Her Bachelor Degree is in Marketing from the Faculty of Economics in the University of Prishtina.  As of June 2013 Rozafa works for Private Company “Drini i Bardhe” as Project Coordinator. Her tasks are to coordinate activities for obtaining licenses and conducting due-diligence on developing a 10 MW Hydro Power Plant in Kosovo; to conduct review of applicable procedures through desk research and meetings with relevant institutions, and present findings to the CEO; to coordinate the communication and submission of materials with the public institutions, technical experts, and lenders; to assist in developing procedures for conducting open-tender regarding selection of companies to conduct feasibility study and detailed engineering study. Before she was engaged in NOVUS Consulting as Researcher; Project Coordinator/ Junior Researcher for Democracy for Development Institute; Marketing Representative for Kosovo Chamber of Commerce etc. her volunteer activities, professional training and certificates include Political Academy for Progressive Youth; Active Volunteer Member at the Youth Council of the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo; Certificate for completing successfully the workshop on Analyzing Labor Force Survey; Certificate of Volunteering as a Teacher for the Financially Unprivileged Children, “YES KOSOVA” and so on.

Rreze Gjakova

Rreze Gjakova as October 2009 works for New Moment New Ideas / Communication full service agency, Prishtina, Kosovo as Account Executive. Her responsibilities include developing strategic plans; conducting research; leading and implementing campaigns; responsible for the overall leadership of Prishtina office, currently she is responsible for a team of six employees. Before she worked as marketing research assistant for Ipko Telecommunications, Prishtina where she assisted in Marketing Communication Research and Marketing Strategies; Developed research questionnaires; gathered data and generated end results. Rreze holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Arts and Science / Major: Management and Media & Graphic Communication, Minor: Legal Studies from the American University of Kosovo in Prishtina.

Albulena Kadriu

Albulena Kadriu currently works as Teaching Assistant for the Prishtina University in the Economic Faculty. As teaching assistant she gives lectures, seminars, tutorials and other classes as appropriate in support of the required teaching obligations; supervises undergraduate and post graduate project work and so on. Ms. Kadriu is also Compliance, Audit, Risk and Security Specialist and Business Relationship Manager at the Raiffeisen Bank in Prishtina. At the bank she mainly monitors and recommends appropriate action to maintain integrity of the processes, including security, operational risk, and audit and compliance issues. Previously she was working as Examiner-Independent Contractor at PECB Inc. in Montreal, Canada; Core Banking System Specialist and Business Relationship Manager at the Raiffeisen Bank in Prishtina and so on. Her Bachelor degree is on Management and Informatics from the Prishtina University, Master of Science Degree from the American University of Kosovo in Service Management. Currently she is a PhD candidate at the University of Prishtina in Management.

Drilona Emrullahu

Since 2009, Drilona’s vision and leadership have evolved RTC into one of Kosovo’s and the region’s most trusted research, consultancy and advisory services organisation operating at international standards. Alongside developing, leading and running the business and the dedicated RTC team, Drilona has also played a key role in winning, running and successfully managing 37 research and other projects for international development agencies, government institutions, the private sector, business associations and NGOs. Drilona is currently a fellow at Duke University – Sanford School of Public Policy as a Masters Candidate in International Development Policy and she also holds a dual-accredited (UK/US) BA Honours Degree in International Business from Richmond, The American International University in London. Drilona’s overall professional and educational experience spans across Kosovo, Albania, the UK and the United States.

Erëza Vela

Erëza Vela in August 2012 established Red Consulting subsequently she is the founder and the CEO of the company. RED Consulting is a company with specialties in Public Relations, Corporative Communication, Consulting, Corporate Event Planning, Research & Development, and Professional Trainings. Prior to this professional engagement Ms. Vela-Berisha worked as Public Relations & Communication Advisor for Deloitte/USAID;  Advisor to the Minister of Economy and Finance; Business Analyst for Insurance Company “Siguria” and so on. She studied Management, Business and Economy and received her Bachelor of Science from the University for Business and Technology in Prishtina, Kosovo. Her Master of Science is on Mass Communication and Journalism from AAB-Riinvest College University in Prishtina, Kosovo. Currently she is attending a course at the London School of Public Relations in London, UK on PR and Reputation Management to receive an Advanced Certificate on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Green Marketing.

in August 2012 established Red Consulting subsequently she is the founder and the CEO of the company. RED Consulting is a company with specialties in Public Relations, Corporative Communication, Consulting, Corporate Event Planning, Research & Development, and Professional Trainings. Prior to this professional engagement Ms. Vela-Berisha worked as Public Relations & Communication Advisor for Deloitte/USAID;  Advisor to the Minister of Economy and Finance; Business Analyst for Insurance Company “Siguria” and so on. She studied Management, Business and Economy and received her Bachelor of Science from the University for Business and Technology in Prishtina, Kosovo. Her Master of Science is on Mass Communication and Journalism from AAB-Riinvest College University in Prishtina, Kosovo. Currently she is attending a course at the London School of Public Relations in London, UK on PR and Reputation Management to receive an Advanced Certificate on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Green Marketing.

Nita Bakalli

Nita Bakalli currently is studying Economic Diplomacy for her Master Degree at the European Center for Peace and Development ECPD) University for Peace established by the United Nations in Belgrade, Serbia. She holds a bachelor degree on Business Administration Finance and Management of Information System from the South East European University in Tetovo, Macedonia. Ms. Bakalli currently work for a Law Firm based in Prishtina, Kosovo and she is mainly responsible for daily management of ongoing legal cases; supervising staff members; arranging meetings and appointments for Attorneys at Law; reviewing, implementing and controlling policies and so on. Prior to this position she was engaged as Administration and Card Personalization Officer at the “Quipu” card personalization centre, wholly owned subsidiary of Quipu GmbH, an IT service provider and processing centre headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. During 2009 she was Project Officer for NGO “Kosovo Young Ecologists”; Processing Office Intern for Pro Credit Bank etc. Ms. Bakalli through study visit in Washington, DC aims to learn how to introduce an online buying and selling of small and medium size businesses in Kosovo.

Vesa Gashi

Vesa Gashi holds a Bachelor of Science, degree in Applied Arts and Science from the American University in Kosovo. Her main professional concentration was on Media and Graphic Communication, followed by Business Management and Economics. She also attended the course on Diplomatic Protocol at The Protocol School of Washington. Ms. Gashi is the Founder and Managing Director of “Finese” an event management company that mainly deals with managing corporate and private events. “Finese’s” clients until now include the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports of the Republic of Kosovo; Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo; Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development of the Republic of Kosovo; USAID-NCSC; GIZ; National Kosovo Assembly; American Chamber of Kosovo; Hyundai; Volkswagen; Surf Festival; Kosovo Philharmonic and so on.  Prior to this position Ms. Gashi worked for Entermedia as Project Manager/Executive Producer; Newspaper Express as Marketing and Development Coordinator; Management and Development Associates as Event Coordinator and Project Manager etc.

Edona Krasniqi

Edona Krasniqi is currently working in the Kosovo Stability Initiative in Prishtine, as a Research Director. She is responsible for research, survey design, data analysis and final report writing. Additionally, she is responsible for projects as Child Protection: Violence in Schools’ and lead research for work Package 8 and 9 of the EU wide funded project ANTICORRP. Previously she has worked as a lecturer in the Institute for the International Education of Students. She was also part of the American University in Kosovo. She has worked there for three years, firstly as an Academic Advisor and then has been promoted to Head of Academic Services. Moreover, she has worked as a project officer in the Business Start-Up Centre Kosovo, as an Administrative assistant to the Head of Student Services and as a Finance and Loan Department Associate in the Economic Bank of Kosovo. She has received her Master’s degree in Economics and has specialized in Economics and Politics from the Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg, Germany. She has also previously attended American University in Kosovo/Rochester Institute of Technology USA, where she received her bachelor’s degree in Management and Public Policy.

Flaka Xhelili

Flaka Xhelili is currently working as a Senior Legal Officer at the Department for Legal Affairs in the Ministry of Justice. Her main responsibilities as a Senior Legal Officer include drafting laws and bylaws, conducting thorough policy analysis for new laws and amendments to laws, conducting legal research on matters related to the proposed legislation and ensuring the compatibility of the draft laws, bylaws and amendments. In the previous years she has worked as a consultant for Open Society Institute in New York. Moreover, she has worked as a Pro Bono Legal Advisor at Legal Advice Centre, Manchester School of Law and has finished her internship at the Department for Consular Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ms. Xhelili has received her LLM degree in European Law and Governance from the Manchester University in Manchester, United Kingdom. Previously, she has received her bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Prishtina and is a non-degree undergraduate in Political Science and Law in the University of Arkansas, USA.

Majlinda Aliu

Majlinda Aliu is a senior journalist in news room in Radio Television of Kosovo. Her main responsibilities are political and social issues. She is currently doing journalistic research on the legislation system. Previously she has worked as a journalist news room in Koha Vision- television, covering local governance and social issues. Ms. Aliu has received a diploma in the field of Massive Communication and Journalism from the University AAB-Riinvest. Additionally she has been given certificates from the Prishtina School of Politic and from the School of European Integrations. Moreover Ms. Aliu has received a diploma from the Training Excellence in Television Journalism.

Rudina Hasimja

Rudina Hasimja is a Program Coordinator in the Centre for Research, Documentation and Publication. She is performs analytical studies about Dealing with the Past in Kosovo and Transitional Justice in general , formulating and monitoring strategic policy documents for implementing Kosovo’s obligation rising from its Article 2.3 of Ahtisaari Plan and other various responsibilities. Previously, she has worked as a National Project Officer in the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe in the Democratization Department. Additionally, she has worked as a Political Advisor in the Ministry of European Integration, as a Project Coordinator in IPKO Foundation Scholarship Program and as a Project Coordinator in the Trembelat LLC.(Information Design Company. Ms.Hasimja has received a Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy and Media and Graphic Communication from the American University in Kosovo and an Associate Degree in Entrepreneurship and Business Development from the American University in Kosovo.

Teuta Danuza

Teuta Danuza is currently working as a director in the National Qualifications Authority where she is responsible for the overall management of the organization and its personnel. She is also an assistant to Professor in the University of Prishtina, Faculty of Philosophy, Department of Psychology . Moreover, Ms. Danuza has worked as a Consultant management/ trainer in the Management Development and Associates. Additionally, she used to work as a Training Coordinator and Consultant in other workplaces as HAUS –Finish Institute for Public Administration, Prishtine and in the Centre for Stress Management and Education. Currently Ms. Danuza is finishing her PH.D in University of Ljubljana, Psychology Department. Previously, she has received her Master’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Prishtina, Psychology department. Furthermore, she has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology.

Ardiana Efendija Zhuri

Ardiana Efendija Zhuri serves as the National Program Officer for Public Infrastructure Domain within Swiss Cooperation Office Kosovo since 2010. Her responsibilities include portfolio management and steering in an independent manner the projects related mainly to water, sanitation and energy sector.  Prior to her current position, Mrs. Zhuri has worked with the WB funded project on the new TPP Kosova C for the development of the new generation capacities, as Task Manager for Environmental and Social Issues; Spatial Planner/ Remote Sensing and GIS Specialist for different donor funded projects in Kosovo such as EU, UN HABITAT, UNDP, UN FAO, UN WFP in support to the central government intuitions like the Institute of Spatial Planning and other related local/central agencies. Mrs. Zhuri graduated on Agriculture Engineering in the University of Prishtina and received her MA in 1995. She holds an Accredited Certificate for Spatial Planning and Development HIS, Netherlands and User Certificate on GIS and Remote Sensing by GEOSYS, France. As being one of Pioneer’s users of GIS applications in Kosovo, Mrs. Zhuri has a ssubstantial experience with different modalities of Spatial Informatics, Geographical Information System –GIS and Remote Sensing-based research, social-spatial and social-economic surveys, physical-spatial surveys including land and geo data base development and geo-information generation for rural and urban areas.

Vjosa Beqaj Krasniqi

Vjosa Beqaj Krasniqi is a Director of the Department of Sectorial Policies in the Ministry of European Integration, in the department of Sectorial Policies. Her responsibilities as a director are to support and oversee the staff within the department, lead, support and manage the process of European Partnership Action Plan preparation, monitor and evaluate its implementation, manage the work of the national structures in European Integration and perform a few other responsibilities. Previously, she used to be a Senior Officer for Coordination of Development and European integration Affairs – Environment in the Ministry of European Integration. Furthermore Ms. Krasniqi used to work in the ILO-IPEC, International Labor Office – International Programme on Elimination of Child Labor as Program Coordinator. Wehereas at the Institute for Social and Policy studies ‘SFERA’ she was a director.  Her education includes Master of Science in the field of Management and Environment from Lancaster University in United Kingdom and whereas her bachelor degree is from University of Pristhina in Social Sciences.

Yllka Bina

Yllka Bina is currently working as a Political Advisor to the Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development. Previously, Yllka finished her Intern in the Kosovo Environment Protection Agency and she worked as a Sales Manager in the Komtel Project Engineering. Additionally, she used to work in the UBO Consulting as a research Analyst and as a Project Coordinator in the IQ Consulting. Moreover, she has finished another Intern in the ALSTOM Power Centrals in Belfort, France, has worked as a Store Assistant Manager and as a Head Cashier in the Tony’s Market, Mathta’s Vineyard, United States of America and has worked as a Office Assistant in the ATM-PR, Prishtine. Ms.Bina has received a Master’s Degree in Economic Policy in Global Markets from the Central European University, Budapest. Previously, she received her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the American University in Bulgaria, Blagoevgrad.

Blerta Miftari

Blerta Miftari is Chief of Cabinet for Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Ministry for Local Government Administration (MLGA) of the Republic of Kosovo. Blerta is mainly responsible for for leading and co-coordinating operations and reports directly to the Deputy Prime Minister and minister of MLGA. Her role as the Chief of Cabinet is managerial and advisory, such as selecting key staff and supervising them; structuring the staff system; Controlling the flow of people into the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of MLGA; managing the flow of information; protecting the interests of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of MLGA. Previously she was Senior Officer for Increasing the Performance in Municipalities in MLGA; Liaison Officer at MLGA and so on. Blerta’s Master Degree is on Public Policy and Public Administration from the American University of Kosovo, whereas her Bachelor Degree is on Public Administration from the South East European University, located in Tetovo, Republic of Macedonia.

Dita Dobranja

Dita Dobranja is active in Civil Society sphere in Kosovo.  She is currently serving as Deputy Executive Director at the Institute for Development Policies (INDEP) which is a think tank and an advocacy centre that provides independent research-based policy solutions.  She is mainly responsible to draft and implement research projects; coordinates and implements research tasks; plans and assists in fundraising; designs research papers, policy briefs and analysis and so on.  In Washington, DC she aims to learn best practices on how to strengthen and guide sustainable social, political and economical development based on the principles of democracy and democratic values. Her main goal is to gain knowledge on how to ensure transparency, accountability and how to advocate for debates with public sphere on policies and laws.  Dita graduated from the American university in Kosovo on Economics and Statistics, Management, Public Policy.

Doruntina Ukimeri

Doruntina Ukimeri comes from Prizren and is a dedicated volunteer, advocating strengthening the community by embracing diversity, building partnerships and inspiring shared solutions. She is the co-founder and an active member of a civil society organization “N’GO’ based in Prizren, through which they have initiated a Music Festival and it remains to be a very successful event organized in Prizren every summer. She is an architect by profession and currently works from the Ministry of Local Government as a Task Manager of the Antenna Office in the framework of the Cross Border Cooperation Programme between Albania and Kosovo. Her supervisor appraised her as an individual with self-starter element and very creative, as well as naturally born with leadership abilities.

Meliza Haradinaj

Meliza Haradinaj currently contributes at the local government of Prishtina, as a Local Councilor at the Municipal Assembly of Prishtina elected by the citizen’s vote. As elected local MP she develops plans, implements and monitors the activities of the municipality to improve the quality of the citizens within the Prishtina city area. She is also a lecturer of Political Science at the Institute for Political and European Studies University College, where she teaches an introductory course to Political Science and its concepts. Meliza’s postgraduate degree is in Diplomacy from the University of Oxford. Principal subjects covered International politics, Public International Law, International trade and Finance and Diplomatic Practice. Meliza’s undergraduate degree is in Public Policy and Management, at the American University of Kosovo.

Shqipe Kurti

Shqipe Kurti is an Editor of Population Census Publications at the Kosovo Agency of Statistics (KAS). She is mainly responsible for outline and the content of all Census analytical publications; for liaising and communicating with KAS departments, GIS and Census Office on the relevant indicators; for Editorial approval process, printing process and web dissemination; for drafting various correspondences relevant for KAS and external stakeholder and so on. Her previous works include Local Project Manager to the EUCEP, Technical Assistance to Statistical Office of Kosovo for the Preparation of the Population Census funded by EU and managed by European Commission Liaison Office to Kosovo; Local Project Coordinator, IPA 2009 Multi-beneficiary statistical cooperation programme, funded by EU; Local Project Officer to the International Monitoring Operations of the Kosovo Census (Council of Europe, European Commission (Eurostat), UN Statistics Division and UN Economic Commission for Europe) and so on. Shqipe holds a Bachelor Degree of Science in Economics from the University of Pristina.

Teuta Musa

Teuta Musa contributes in local government of Prishtina and is an active member of a second largest political party in Kosovo. She is a Secretary General of the Women’s Forum of the Democratic League of Kosovo where her role is focused in promoting women’s representation and participation in national decision-making and urging action on her proposals.  She is also a Director of Cultural Children’s Center in Prishtina where she is responsible for the overall functionality of the center. Previously she was Youth Coordinator within the Youth Sector at the Prishtina Municipality; Teacher of Albanian Language and Literature and so on. Teuta graduated from the University of Prishtina at the Philology Faculty on Albanian Language and Literature, whereas her Master degree is on Diplomacy and International Relations from FAMA University in Prishtina. Teuta’s project is strengthening her knowledge on how to empower women in politics. Her activities to implement the project in Kosovo is to conduct workshops and trainings on leadership initially in six municipalities of Kosovo, in order to offer the overall concept of leadership and strengthen the capacities of these women in local good governance.

Venera Kabashi

Venera Kabashi is a lawyer by profession. She obtained her degree in Law at the University of Prishtina, Kosovo and her Master in Laws (LL.M.) degree at the University College London, United Kingdom. She is currently writing her PhD thesis in human rights law at the University of Zürich, Switzerland. Venera is working on a PhD which will assess the impact of the European Convention on Human Rights in the Western Balkans. Her thesis will also analyze the impact of the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights in respect of systemic and recurring human rights issues in the Western Balkans. Back in Kosovo, Venera works for the Constitutional Court as a Senior Legal Advisor. Previously she worked for the Ministry of Justice as Senior Legal Officer and for the East West Management Institute as Project Officer.

Alma Lama

Alma Lama graduated in 1999 from the University of Tirana. She majored in Language and Literature. She is currently working as a Political Analyst for a daily newspaper in Kosovo called “Kosova Sot.” In May 2009 she established her own production company “Studio Al” in Prishtina, Kosovo where she produces documentaries. Since 2003 she has been a regular correspondent for Osservatorio sui Balcani in Italy, and for a daily newspaper and monthly magazine in Albania called “Shqip.” She also contributed through publishing articles for the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, Transitions Online, United Press International, The Washington Times, etc. In addition, Alma has published political analyses in daily newspapers in Kosovo such as Koha Ditore, Express, Lajmi, etc. Alma is passionate about investigative journalism and she had the opportunity to have her investigative stories published in Koha Ditore and Epoka e Re. Alma worked at Top Channel as a Senior Correspondent in Kosovo for three years prior to and while working at the above mentioned positions.

Ariana Qosaj – Mustafa

Ariana Qosaj – Mustafa is specialized in the field of development, international law, and institutional capacity building. She has over eight years of work experience in research and capacity building activities related to women‟s human rights, discrimination and rule of law in Kosovo. Other areas of experience included protection of vulnerable groups (i.e. women and children), anti-trafficking, legislative reform, gender equality and institutional capacity-building. Currently she works as Director of Special Research where she leads special projects related to the fulfillment of the KIPRED mission to promote and strengthen democracy and democratic values in Kosovo and the region. KIPRED is organized around two main pillars: policy researches and training of government and political parties.
Prior to this position she was an Executive Director for Community Development Fund. This was a World Bank initiative to support the poverty reduction in Kosovo through a demand driven approach and participatory development of rural zones in particular including women, youth, elderly and persons with disabilities. Ariana‟s education includes MSc in Gender, Development and Globalization from The London School of Economics and Political Science-UK and BA in Law studies in Law Faculty from Prishtina University. Ariana is also on the Board of Directors of the Kosovo Women‟s Network; Member of the Board of Directors for the Fund for Democratic Initiatives based in Gjakova; and Board Member of the Centre to Prevent and Protect Victims of Trafficking based in Prishtina.

Evliana Berani

Evliana Berani is in charge of project development, establishing international relations, and designing and implementing various initiatives to generate debates. As a lecturer she lectures on the basics of law, marketing research and EU Policies and Law. Prior to this she was involved with BBC World as a Media Analyst; UNDP as Project Manager; AAB University as Dean and Lecturer; New York University, USA as Media Development Researcher, etc . Evliana‟s research project is on election systems and financial disclosure rules of political parties in the U.S. and also legal and institutional framework in the U.S. regarding the transparency and the fight against corruption. Evliana has proven to be a dedicated women leader by working very hard in the last twenty five years in Kosovo and abroad. It is clear that she has taken every opportunity to advance her professional skills in order to help people and communities wherever they are – whether in Kosovo and or other developing countries.

Fluter Hoxha

Flutër Hoxha studied law and graduated in 2001 from the Law Faculty at the University of Prishtina. She started her Masters studies in 2008 in International Relations at the University of Prishtina. She currently serves as Head of the Division for Implementing and Developing Laws within the Legal Department at the Ministry of Local Government and Administration (MLGA). Flutëra is responsible for drafting laws for the Ministry, providing legal support to the Director of the Legal Department, and cooperating with Municipalities in Kosovo regarding law implementation. Prior to this position, Flutëra was Political Adviser to the Deputy Minister for Local Government and Administration.

Merita Behluli

Merita Behluli is an architect who graduated in 1990 from the University of Prishtina in Kosovo. In July 2009 she established her own Consultancy Firm called „M Studio,‟ where she offers consultancy advice and expertise for the Central and Local Governmental institutions, and other interested parties in construction of the buildings according to international standards and Urban Regulatory Plans. Currently she is involved in a World Bank project with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and to the Urbanism Department in Prishtina Municipality by offering her expertise. Merita has been active in the field of Engineering /Architecture and Economic Development for 17 years. Over this time she has encountered the legislation gaps in Kosovo.

Albulena Bektashi

Albulena Bektashi is Senior Fiscal Policy Analyst at the Economic and Public Policy Department in the Ministry of Finance of the Government of the Republic of Kosovo. Ms. Bektashi is mainly responsible for analyzing and conducting research on new fiscal policies or changes in current policies; researching the impact new fiscal policy and changes will affect budget, and economic and social welfare decision-making; following and comparing Regional and EU fiscal policies with Kosovo; confirming the legal status of department decisions and track their implementation. She was also appointed as a chief leader for the International Monetary Fund Technical Assistance Mission on Reform of the Fiscal Regime for Mining on behalf of the Ministry of Finance until September 2012. Prior to this position she worked as Audit Assistant for Grant-Thornton; researcher for Riinvest Institute; intern at Raiffeisen Bank and so on. Ms. Bektashi holds a bachelor degree in Banking, Finance and Accounting from the Economic Faculty at the Prishtina University. Her Master Degree is on Economics, Finance and Management from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law at the Bristol University. Her leadership project is on fighting tax avoidance in the Agricultural Sector in Kosovo, through educating farmers to enhance their consciousness and through stimulating farmers to apply for fiscal number and register in Tax Administration of Kosovo (TAK).

Arta Istrefi

Arta Istrefi is a Political Adviser to the Minister of the Ministry of Trade and Industry of the Government of the Republic of Kosovo.  Her responsibilities include but are not limited to writing press releases, speeches for the Minister, organize press conferences, spokesperson by giving statements for national and international media, represent the Ministry in domestic and international conferences, assist the Minister in the meetings with Ambassadors, Ministers, Investors and other stakeholders, advise the Minister and monitor the implementation of small and medium enterprise projects and polices and so on. Prior to this position Ms. Istrefi worked for Management and Development Associates as Senior Project Coordinator; KLAN Kosova Television as Journalist; EU Tempus Project as Financial Assistant Manager and so on. She is an Economist by profession, graduated in 2009 in the Faculty of Economy, Prishtina University. Ms. Istrefi’s leadership initiative is Empowering women in Business, by conducting a research to examine the real position of women in business in Kosovo and factors that can influence women in starting a business and/or scaling-up production or services. Through this research she aims to identify key constrains to the full participation of women in the growth of the SME sector in Kosovo.

Elmaze Pireva

Ms. Pireva currently manages Kosova’s Central Fiscal Authority’s which will soon transfer to the Ministry of Finance.  In this position she supervises a department responsible for informing taxpayers about their tax responsibilities as well as answering taxpayer questions.  Ms. Pireva’s former background included work as a self-employed accountant.

Violeta Selimi

Ms. Selimi’s career before the war, focused on the preservation of rare books and papers at the National Library that required the use of her academic skills in chemical technology.  During the war, she found herself working with at an innovative youth center that attempted to bridge cultural differences by bringing Serbian and Albanian children together.  Now, Ms. Selimi has become involved with a new political party in Kosova that actively promotes roles for women in politics—something that has traditionally not occurred in Kosova’s major parties.

Fitore Berisha Lekaj

Ms. Lekaj brings a diverse background of experience to her current position as a medical nurse providing assistance and support to children who suffer from mental health trauma as a result of the war.  Prior to her current role Ms. Lekaj was an elementary school art teacher and coordinated various youth support programs.

Laura Luzha Berzati

Dr. Berzati currently serves as the Director of the Prishtina Regional AIDS Committee responsible for conducting surveillance of certain communicable diseases in the Prishtina region.  Trained as a physician, Dr. Berzati’s past experience includes work in the field of epidemiology as well as work in health education.

Ilirjana Zymberaj

Ms. Zymberaj currently serves as the Chief Sanitary Inspector for Kosova’s Ministry of Health responsible for supervising 48 municipal inspectors and six district inspectors.  Currently, Ms. Zymberaj is also charged with designing a campaign to improve Kosova’s sanitary standards to those levels adopted by Kosova’s more developed neighbors.

Ava Kurteshi

Ms. Kurteshi co-founded Mens Sana in 1994 as Kosova’s first non-governmental agency dedicated to providing mental health care.  Trained in both psychiatry and psychology, Ms. Kurteshi’s focused her early efforts for Mens Sana to provide direct support services to target populations through publications, counseling, and postnatal care to new mothers.

Lirie Berisha

Ms. Berisha’s current responsibilities at the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning involve the coordination of Kosova’s new housing policy that includes drafting legislation and initiating pilot projects.  Trained as an electronic engineer, Ms. Berisha’s previous experience included work as a high school teacher.

Florina Mehaj Kosumi

Currently assisting efforts to identify and train staff for Kosova’s new Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning, plans call for Ms. Mehaj to launch the Ministry’s new public relations office.  The Ministry recognizes that in order for its work to reach desired objectives it must have a campaign plan to inform the public of the specific need and when necessary pursued the public to support efforts.

Belkez Ferri

A practicing physician, Belkez Ferri found her passion fighting the trafficking of Kosovar women.  Currently she works to provide social support to victims of trafficking and domestic violence.  Her background also includes work as a children’s physician working in educational and community-based settings.

Shahe Krasniqi Berisha

Ms. Berisha currently serves as the Manager of Restructuring for Kosova’s only electrical utility.  Trained as a mechanical engineer, she coordinates restructuring efforts of more than 5,000 employees of all levels designed to maximize productivity while minimizing costs.  Before the war, Ms. Berisha also worked for the electrical utility’s coal mining operation.

Fetije Huruglica

Ms. Huruglica currently serves as the Chief Nursing Officer at the Ministry of Health and is responsible for the developing reforms in nursing education and practice; establishing legal frameworks, and representing nursing interests in the policy making process.  Previous to her position at the Ministry, Ms. Huruglica has worked as a nurse in various medical clinics, hospitals, and centers.

Teuta Jaha Hoxha

Mrs. Jaha-Hoxha is currently the only female director and only one of seven women working for the Municipal Administration of Rahovec/Orahovac.  In this role she is responsible for urban planning, public utilities, and transportation policy.  Prior to this role she worked as an architect for several NGOs providing assessment and monitoring of houses.

Enesa Kadic

Ms. Kadic currently serves as the Chief of the Local Community Section in the Education, Outreach, and Communities Division at the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology.  In this position she is responsible for promoting equal rights and access for minority communities in Kosova’s educational system and is also involved in an overall educational reform process.  Previous to her position at the Ministry, Ms. Kadic has worked as a Project Officer for Oxfam, Great Britain, in the Community Development and Gender Program, and as a high school teacher of philosophy, sociology, psychology, civil rights, and logic. 

Selvete Krasniqi

Dr. Krasniqi currently works as the Deputy Director in the National Institute of Public Health.  Trained as a medical doctor, Dr. Krasniqi specializes in hygiene and water and sanitation.  She has also earned her MSc, and PhD in Medical Sciences where her theses focused on the correlation between drinking water quality in Kosova and water-born illnesses.  Prior to her appointment as Deputy Director, Dr. Krasniqi worked as a physician, a professor, and consultant.

Milajete Shala Mehmeti

Dr. Mehmeti, an expert on the subject of corrosion of materials, is very engaged in building a central laboratory unit at the University of Prishtina for the purpose of material diagnostics.  In addition, Dr. Mehmeti is the co-author of four books on corrosion, electrochemistry, recycling, and materials science and is considered an excellent teacher and researcher.

Zoja Shefqet Osmani

Ms. Osmani currently serves at the pleasure of the President of the Kosova Assembly.  Her duties require her to provide legal opinions to the Office of the President and Permanent Secretary.  She also actively works to increase the role of women in Kosova’s emerging civil service.  Previously Ms. Osmani worked as the Municipal Secretary for one of Kosova’s thirty local governments.

Ilirjana Pajaziti Vrella

Ms. Pajaziti-Vrella currently serves as a Project Officer for CARE International responsible for the Sharing Responsibility Towards Education Progress.  In this role she plans and supports teacher in-service training as well as community forums for interested parties and recreational activities for children.  Previously she worked for similar NGOs working in the education section including the Danish Refugee Council, Mercy Corps International, and International Rescue Committee.  Prior to the war Ms. Pajaziti-Vrella worked as a journalist.

Elvira Heta

Ms. Heta currently works in the office of the Prime Minister.  Trained as an attorney she previously worked in finance and shipping as a general representative for Western Union and FedEx.  She is recognized for her skill potential and strength in legal logic and reasoning and she ranked among the top of her class throughout school.  It is expected that Ms. Heta will focus her work following her fellowship on behalf of the Prime Minister in Office of Legal Support Services.

Feride Rushiti

Dr. Rushiti founded and currently serves as the Executive Director of the Kosovo Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims, the first professional rehabilitation center in Kosova.  Trained as a medical doctor with a specialization in gastro-heptology, Dr. Rushiti has worked as a doctor at various centers and hospitals.

Makifete Saliuka

Ms. Saliuka currently serves as a Municipal Judge in Prishtina responsible for civil cases.  Previously she worked for an international NGO and managed legal and community duties related to the Unfinished Houses Project in Prishtina and Ferizaj.  Prior to the war Ms. Saliuka serve a judge in the in the Labor Court hearing employment law matters.

Veprore Shehu

Ms. Shehu currently serves as a Project Coordinator for Medical Mondiale Kosova, a German NGO that provides psychosocial, gynecological, and legal support to women and girls traumatized by the war.  In this position, she is responsible for coordinating the work of all departments, outreach efforts, networking with other local in international groups, and coordinating various humanitarian assistance efforts.  Prior to the war, Ms. Shehu worked as an English teacher.

Aferdita Fazlija

Ms. Fazlija currently serves as Deputy Director of the Sport Directorate in the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Youth and is responsible for planning, compilation, developing and implementing program policies in order to develop the sport in general; to work on developing the short and long term strategy; to coordinate work and to be involved in international contacts and to organize, manage and coordinate the quality job within Sport Directorate in the Ministry.  Her previous jobs were in the Sport Directorate in the Ministry as a Sport manager and in the Football federation of Kosova as a Vice President.

Ajshe Kingji

Ms. Kingji currently works in the Sanitary Inspection Department in the Ministry of Health as a Sanitary Inspector. Her duties and responsibilities include: monitoring, advising and coordinating cooperation with municipal Sanitary inspectors; compile and apply the rules and regulations; provide control of drinking water quality of regional water –supplies and big food industries; organize actions for inspections of food objects, health, hotel, schools. 
Prior to her appointment as Sanitary Inspector, Ms. Kingji worked as a Trauma Educator for The International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) and as a Chemistry Teacher for “Vaso Pashë Shkodrani” primary school. 

Burbuqe Latifi

Ms. Latifi currently serves as a Chief of Environment Health of the Human Ecology in the National Institute of Public Health (NIPH) in Kosova, which operates under the Ministry of Health umbrella. Her primary responsibilities include: design and implement the strategy on monitoring the environment indicators; supervise and monitor drinking water quality in Kosova and collaboration with regional public health institution – Departments of Environmental Health. 
Previous to her position at the NIPH, Ms. Latifi has worked as a Consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO), and as a Physician in the Regional Hospital in Peja.

Hanife Statovci

Ms. Latifi currently serves as a Chief of Environment Health of the Human Ecology in the National Institute of Public Health (NIPH) in Kosova, which operates under the Ministry of Health umbrella. Her primary responsibilities include: design and implement the strategy on monitoring the environment indicators; supervise and monitor drinking water quality in Kosova and collaboration with regional public health institution – Departments of Environmental Health. 
Previous to her position at the NIPH, Ms. Latifi has worked as a Consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO), and as a Physician in the Regional Hospital in Peja.

Lumnije Berisha

Ms. Berisha currently serves as Manger of Roads and Infrastructure Department within the Ministry of Transport and Communications and she is responsible for evaluating and implementing road annual program; planning and effectively finance road maintenance and their improvement; maintaining road network which has to do with sustainability, security and environment protection; advising on time regarding issues and problems. Prior to this Ms. Berisha worked as an engineer of developing and construction sector in the factory “Amortizatorët” in Prishtina; as an administrative assistant for UNMIK; and for Mowlem J&P Joint venture British Company as an Accounts Assistant.

Sanije Kelmendi

Ms. Kelmendi is currently working for the Ministry of Economy and Finance as a deputy of Public Procurement Regulation Body. Her responsibilities include issuing rules and procedures of public procurement and organizing training for all procurement officials in the territory of Kosovo; monitoring and inspection of procurements in the whole territory of Kosovo, and reviewing complaints lodged from unsatisfied suppliers in the whole territory of Kosovo. Prior to this role she worked for Commercial manager in Shockubserver Factory in Prishtina and as an Accountant in ProComm – Private Company.

Sebahate Muharremi

Ms. Muharremi is currently serving as Chief of Quality Control Section in the Department of Services Registration in Ministry of Public Services. She is responsible for ensuring the application of law, procedures, regulations and instructions of Civil Status in all municipal offices of Civil Status and satellite offices in Kosovo; supervise and organize the activity of the offices of control and quality regarding the control of registrations in registry books safe keeping management of those books as well as quality of issuance of certificates by municipal offices, maintenance of unique data base for all civil status offices; provide the implementation of data base program for municipal offices of Civil Status etc. 
Prior to this role she worked as Training and Quality Control Officer (TQCO) in the Civil Status Section; as TQCO in Center Civil Registry in the Ministry of Public Services. Prior to the Ministry she worked for UNMIK and OSCE as Registration Clerk and during August 2000 she worked for OSCE in Election Unit.

Vjollca Krasniqi

Ms. Krasniqi is currently working as Municipality Gender Officer in the Ferizaj Municipal Assembly. Her responsibilities are: to identify the needs of women in the municipality in various sectors and bring them to the attention of municipal administration; to advocate and raise awareness of gender, gender roles and gender equality; Organize special promotion events and Cooperate with women in the Municipal Assembly in streamlining gender in local legislative. Prior to this role she worked as psychology teacher, social worker, monitor and sociology teacher.

Ardiana Zhuri

Ms. Zhuri currently serves as National GIS Expert in UN-HABITAT, Governance and Urban Planning in Kosova in support to Institute for Spatial Planning in the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning (MESP). Her responsibilities include developing and maintaining the database and GIS system of the MESP in cooperation with the information and communication team of the Institute of Spatial Planning; to provide capacity building acting role of GIS Unit Coordinator within Institute and in-service support to professional staff of MESO/Institute for Spatial Planning, responsible for preparation of the Spatial Plan of Kosova etc.  Her previous jobs were in Danish GIS Institute COWI/AS as National GIS Expert; UNDP in Public Administration and Institution Building Team as Program Associate etc.

Majlinda Gjocaj

Ms. Gjocaj currently serves as a Quality Control Officer in Center for Development of Family Medicine (CDFM) within the Ministry of Health in Kosova.  Her primary responsibilities include: preparing action plan towards development of Clinical Governance in eight Family Medicine Training Centers (FMTC); set up evaluation system; monitor completing of audits; set up workshops with trainers in family medicine on clinical governance; introduce courses for coordinators of eight FMTCs etc. Ms. Gjocaj also works as a part time consultant in Kosovo Police Services (KPS) with an aim to establish Department of Health within KPS.  Previous to her position at the CDFM, Ms. Gjocaj has worked as a pulmologist (lung disease specialist) in University Hospital Center in Tirana Albania and also as General practitioner in Policlinic No: 9 also in Tirana, Albania.

Makfire Mustafa

Ms. Mustafa currently serves as a Chief of Donor and Investment sector in the Department of Non-resident Affairs of the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sport and Non-resident Affairs.  Her primary responsibility is to support foreign investors & connecting with Governmental Institution in Kosova.  Ms. Mustafa’s previous positions count Head of Secretariat in Kosovar Board on Standards for Financial Reporting in the Ministry of Economy and Finance; Procurement Manager for the District Heating Company “TermoKos” and Commissioner for Social Assistance in the European Agency for Reconstruction.

Merita Barileva

Ms. Barileva currently works in the Organization for Development Activities as a Program Officer.  Her responsibilities include researching and identifying new project ideas; participating actively in project proposals development; designing and delivering trainings aimed at community and municipal authorities capacity development; facilitate RAE (Roma, Ashkali & Egyptians) activists in drafting action plans; organize media events etc.
Prior to her appointment as Program officer in ODA, Ms. Barileva past activities and functions includes: Program Officer in Learning and reporting; PO for community Development & Gender Program for OXFAM, GB; English Teacher for “Eqren Qabej” High School in Prishtina etc.

Nexharije Buçinca

Ms. Buçinca currently is employed as an architect and manger of the Work up Unit - Technical Department in The Public Housing Enterprise and is responsible for designing, rehabilitation of school buildings, preparation of bill of quantities and tender documents; supervision of the rehabilitation and management of the budget and expenses; monitoring and supervision of construction; housing and shopping center building in Pal Palucaj Street - Prishtinë; monitoring and supervision of construction; housing and shopping center building Kroi i bardhë- Prishtinë; monitoring and supervision construction of shopping center Bregu I diellit – Prishtinë; construction monitoring and supervision of housing building near the Economic Faculty – Prishtinë; construction monitoring and supervision of housing and shopping building C-2 in Hajdar Dushi Street – Prishtinë and directly involved on technical assessments, preparation of bill of quantities and contracts with the contractors. Ms. Buçinca also works as Consultant of Kosovo Education Center. Her previous engagements were as an architect in the real-estate company “Eco-impex”; as an architect in the Work up Unit – The Public Housing Enterprise etc.

Saxhide Mustafa

Ms. Mustafa is currently serving as Deputy Administrative Director for RIINVETS. She is responsible to To prepare Executive Board meetings, keep minutes and disseminate conclusions and follow –up their implementation; To prepare and implement Board policy procedures in the are of recruitment policy, staff development and Human Resource Management, monitoring of evaluation of the staff performance; Participate in drafting agreements and contracts with Riinvest partners and staff; Participate when necessary in research activities – survey preparation overseeing – questionnaires, field work and data entering and processing; Manage organizing of events – seminars , workshops and conferences ; Especially engaged in the Riinvest project on evaluating the progress in implementation of the Standards for Kosova and in evaluation additional budget costs for the standard implementation.  Prior to this role she worked as for RIMA EXPORT-IMPORT Co. as Office manager responsible for bookkeeping, trade agreements, overseeing contracts and sale, HRM and Administrative work, etc

Zylfije Krasniqi

Ms. Krasniqi is a Captain in the Kosova Police Service (KPS) who supervises the Recruiting and Selection Unit in the Headquarters Office in Pristina.  She joined the KPS in 2000 and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2001, Lieutenant in 2003 and Captain on May 6, 2004. Before her career in law enforcement, she was an elementary school teacher in Lllukar and Grashita Villages.
As a director she is responsible for the recruitment of qualified police candidates. The Kosova Police Service is a new institution, established in accordance with UNMIK Resolution 1244.  Kosova’s goal is to establish a 7,000 person police agency.  Most of the training up to this point has been given by international police officers from other countries who teach according to their individual police experience.  This results in a training system with little continuity since the instructors are only assigned for six to twelve months with KPS.
She is now responsible for establishing a Career Development function for KPS.  This will include identifying the Knowledge, skills and abilities required in each position, establishing selection criteria and testing procedures and creating a training academy by July 2006. 

Suzana Goranci

Ms. Goranci is currently working as Head of Division for municipality planning in the Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning. She Facilitates public information and participation on planning and other issues foreseen from the Policy Division; Professional Coordination of coordination offices; Provides translation of governmental central policies into the local governmental policies in the field of planning; Controls and monitors implementation of plans and legislation; Defines standards for infrastructure, housing planning etc through the division assistance of national planning; Coordination of capital projects with spatial indication (establishment of particular working groups) through the facilitation of policy division and cooperation; Decides on assignment of land use through the policy division; Develops necessary and verified rules; Controls and advises deviations in municipal regulations on spatial planning and Functions as professional office for advises and instructions on spatial planning of the municipal level and on implementation of the law on spatial planning. Prior to this role she worked as an Urban planner in the Directorate of Urbanism in Gjakova Municipality.

Bukurije Bllacaku

Bukurije studied English Literature in the University of Prishtina and she graduated in 1985.
Bukurije currently works for United Nation Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) for Police School in Vushtrri as interpreter/translator. Her prior responsibilities are testing and background verification, interpreting oral interviews, performing field work and assisting in background investigations of references, recruitment and selections, transmit ideas correctly, act confidentially, create written test for testing procedures and translating policies for Kosovo Police Service (KPS).
Bukurije used to work for OXFAM a NGO from United Kingdom as a driver/interpreter and as a teacher of English literature, teaching English language at schools and actively participating in all leisure activities with children.  In Washington Bukurije had an opportunity to work for The Empower Program: A gender awareness program for young people and her aim is to create a gender and family issues unit at the Kosovo Police School. Bukurije lives in Prishtina with her husband and her children

Mirlinda Dana

Mirlinda studies medicine in the University of Prishtina eager to become a doctor. Mirlinda currently works as a program assistant for Kosova Transition initiatives (KTI), in Gjakova, which is United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funded program-providing support to citizen-initiated community development projects. Her main responsibilities are developing and maintaining community contacts; working with citizens on “Community Improvement Councils”  (CICs) to increase and implement community development projects; assisting communities to establish community councils in order to foster participatory decision making, local governance; assisting CICs in developing project specifications and budgets; supervise the implementation of the projects; developing and maintaining contacts with Municipal representatives and Municipal Assembly members, and working with Municipal Working Groups to identify and develop community infrastructure projects.
Mirlinda also worked as a program officer for Kosova Transition initiatives (KTI), in Gjakova, funded by RONCO Consulting Corporation, which is an international professional services firm that provides public and private sector clients with advisory, training, implementation, and management assistance; as an education officer for Save the Children; and public health educator for “Tearfund” in Kukës in Albania. While in Washington she had a chance to gain knowledge regarding her area of interest in Arlington County-Public Health Division. Her aim is to design and adopt public health curriculum component for primary schools in Gjakova. Mirlinda lives in Gjakova located in the southwest of Kosova, with her husband and her son.

Betime Hoxha

Betime graduated form University of Prishtina in 2001, received a degree on English Literature. Betime works for Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Election Department-Archive- in Prishtina as an Operations-Senior Archive Assistant. Her responsibilities include developing and implementing procedures for the handling of documents and the set up of a filing system. Responsible for intake and proper processing of documents received by the Department Archive. Assist in sorting and organizing of election material, decide which material is to be archived; develop, set up and maintain a Reference Collection to be used as a library by staff. Cataloguing of archive material and reference material in the database; regularly update and maintain the electronic Archive Drive; assist the staff to locate material using database, spreadsheets etc. Her previous employment includes language assistant for United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), Department of Culture in Prishtina; as an assistant to the Ombudsperson Liaison Officer for Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Support Section of the Ombudsperson Institution in Gjilan; CARE International in Gjilan as translator; community service officer for International Rescue Committee (IRC); and administrative assistant also for International Rescue Committee (IRC).  Betime while in Washington had an opportunity to expand her knowledge regarding her area of interest in World Learning Star Network programs for women’s leadership and her main goal is to create a volunteer hotline service for women suffering from domestic violence.  Betime works in Prishtina but lives in city of Gjilan, located in eastern part of Kosova.

Arjeta Rexhaj

Arjeta is an executive director of an NGO “Gender Training and Research Center” in Prishtina. Her responsibilities include maintaining contact with donators, fundraising, reporting to donors, monitoring the projects, and bringing new ideas for follow-up trainings.
Currently Arjeta studies medicine in the University of Prishtina.  Her previous employment include coordinator of “Mother Teresa” humanitarian association; coordinator of the “Open Door” project of “Counseling Center for Women and Children” and regional coordinator for “Regional Training Center” project of “Women Center”.  Arjeta in Washington worked for the Center for Policy Alternatives. Arjeta’s aim is to increase the capacity of women NGO’s with a possibility to increase their abilities to become self -sustainable. Arjeta comes from Peja, which is located in the western part of Kosova, however she lives and works in Prishtina.

Anda Valla

Anda studies law in the Prishtina University and works at the Center for the Protection of Women and Children as program monitoring manager where she monitors activities at field sites.  Her prior employment includes at the Women’s Advocacy Center in Tirana as human relation worker, collection war testimonies from Kosovar Refugee Women. Anda was involved as an active member of establishing Kosova Youth Council in July 1999. She is also member of the Youth Board – Youth Program designed by Kosova Foundation for Open Society – SOROS. In Washington Anda worked for United Nations Information Center and her aim is to implement a public education program on women’s rights and protections based on the UN’s CEDAW Convention. Anda lives in Prishtina with her husband and her daughter.

Arta Zherka

Arta studies architecture in the University of Prishtina. Arta currently works as a program assistant for Kosova Transition initiatives (KTI), in Gjakova, which is United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funded program-providing support to citizen-initiated community development projects. Her main responsibilities are developing and maintaining community contacts; working with citizens on “Community Improvement Councils”  (CICs) to increase and implement community development projects; assisting communities to establish community councils in order to foster participatory decision making, local governance; assisting CICs in developing project specifications and budgets; supervise the implementation of the projects; developing and maintaining contacts with Municipal representatives and Municipal Assembly members, and working with Municipal Working Groups to identify and develop community infrastructure projects. Arta also worked as a program officer for Kosova Transition initiatives (KTI), in Gjakova, funded by RONCO Consulting Corporation, which is an international professional services firm that provides public and private sector clients with advisory, training, implementation, and management assistance; journalist for Radio 21 in Prishtina; information assistant for Council for Defense of Human Rights in Gjakova; and self employed, engaged in a local business.  In Washington Arta worked for National Albanian American Council and Arta’s aim to advocate for social benefits for the missing persons in the Gjakova region. 
Arta works and lives in Gjakova, which is located in the south west of Kosova.

Leandra Berisha

Leandra graduated in General Management in the Tirana University (Albania), Business Administration Branch on July 1999. Leandra is Program Officer/Trainer in Human Resources Management in OSCE – Institute of civil Administration in Prishtina. She is responsible for training the appointed, elected Municipal, Public Servants, And Officers in Kosova.
Leandra’s previous employments were in OSCE – Peja, in Administrative Department as Personnel/Finance Assistant; program assistant for SOROS Foundation in Tirana; and secretary in the institute of Authorized Auditors of Albania. In Wasington she worked in Council for the Advancement of Small Businesses and Greater Rockville Partnership.
Leandra’s goal is development of civil society. She lives in Peja, which is located in the western part of Kosova.

Arbnora Dushi

Arbnora received bachelor degree in 1995 on Albanian Literature in the Faculty of Philology, in Prishtina University. In 2000 Arbnora received master degree of Science in Philology in Albanian Literature and Folklore of Institute of Albanology in Prishtina.
Arbnora is an assistant researcher in the Institute of Albanology in Prishtina in folklore department. As an independent researcher, since 1997 and one of the few young anthropologists in Kosova she desires to bring new way of thinking in Kosovar society by empowering women in anthropological studies.
While in Washington she researched her area of interest in George Washington University in the Department of Anthropology.
Arbnora’s aim is to develop a protocol and methodology for researching hoe a traditional society transforms to a modern society and introduce it to her work at the Institute.
Arbnora lives in Prishtina with her parents, two sisters and a brother.

Drita Kadriu

Drita graduated in Biology in the University of Prishtina in January 1988. Drita is a principal of the primary school in Mitrovica.
Dritas’s previous employment includes a lecturer of biology subject in high school in Mitrovica in period of eight years. She also worked as instructor of women’s group in the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) community center in Mitrovica. Drita is also a leader of Democratic Women Organization, Democratic Party of Kosova (DPK) in the region of Mitrovica and ran for Parliament in the November 2001 elections.
While in Washington Drita worked with Sidwell Friends Upper School, Environmental Education Department.   
Drita’s aim is to design and incorporate an environmental education component within the science programs in schools in Mitrovica.
Drita lives in Mitrovica, in northern part of Kosova.

Shkurta Kastrati

With background in law, Shkurta works for American Bank in Kosova (ABK) as Business Development Associate and her responsibilities include recommending business development solutions to management and drafting action plans for the implementation of these solutions; designing the strategy for marketing the banking services and taking necessary steps to implement strategies upon approval from the senior management; serving as the focal point of communication between the ABK and the media; conducting assessment of the local media and reported the findings to the management; manager of Bank’s sponsorship activities; monitoring the competitions activities, new products, pricing, marketing campaigns, sponsorship, etc; monitoring Branch Managers and Branch Supervisor’s achievements in attaining their targets and researching business opportunities. Her previous positions within American Bank of Kosova were Head Teller and Management Assistant / Translator.  Where as previous employment include Consultant Linguist/ Translator for TRW Linguist Provider for the Balkans- Bondsteel Camp, Kosovo; Linguist Assistant for Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) Cegrane Camp, Macedonia; Volunteer for Association for Democratic Initiatives (ADI)- Macedonia; and Journalist for Daily Newspaper “Kosova Sot”, Prishtinë. While in Washington Shkurta had an opportunity to work for World Council on Credit Unions and Alfirst Bank and her aim is to
implement a marketing strategy and program for the American Bank of Kosovo.
Shkurta lives and works in Prishtina.

Bardha Korça

Bradha is a passionate advocate for protecting and preserving the environment.  In 1982, she graduated from the University of Prishtina with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry.  She continued her studies in Croatia at the University of Zagreb, completing her Master’s Degree in Natural Science in 1987.  In 1997, she received her PHD in Natural Science from the University if Zagreb, in collaboration with the University of Prishtina.  She has worked as a chemistry professor at both the University of Prishtina and University of Tetova (fYRoM) since 1996.
As a Hope Fellow, in Washington she had a chance to work for U.S Environmental Protection Agency Office on Water. Bardha’s aspiration is to focus her studies on water pollution and sanitation, to contribute on environmental protection in order to create a healthy environment. Bardha works and lives in Prishtina.

Shpresa Kursani

Shpresa studied economic development in Faculty of Economy in the University of Prishtina during 1974-1978. She attended post-graduation economic studies also in University of Prishtina. Shpresa received her PHD in Prishtina in 1998. She is a Manager of Economics and Modeling System in the Energetic Corporation of Kosova (KEK). During 1979-1991 Shpresa has been employed by Electro- economy of Kosova as a Director of Foreign Loans.
In Washington she worked in PEPCO and Alliance for Saving Energy.
Shpresa’a aim is to increase public awareness about energy efficiency.
Shpresa believes that by increasing public awareness for saving the energy, consumers will pay their bills, there will be a better supply, less power cuts, and lower technical losses due to overloaded facilities; and there will be reduced non-technical losses, decreases in illegal connections and uncontrolled usage.   
Shpresa lives in Prishtina with her husband and her two children.

Merita Halitaj

Merita received her degree in 1986 on metallurgy in the Faculty of Mining and Metallurgy.  Merita has been a Coordinator of a NGO called “Counseling Center for Women, Children and Families” in Prizren since 1999. Merita and her NGO are very supportive to the NGO resource Center in Prizren. She is also a vice-president of Regional NGO Board for Prizren region and very active toward NGO community issues.
Merita while in Washington expanded her knowledge in the area of her interest in the Arlington Community Temporary Shelter and Alexandria Shelter for Domestic Violence. Merita’s ambition is to offer psychosocial assistance in her community by building a coalition in Prizren to raise awareness about domestic violence as well as improving responses to domestic violence.
Merita lives in Prizren located in southern part of Kosova.

Fatime Hoxha

Fatime studied electronics in the Prishtina University, graduated in 1990 and develop into engineer of electronics.
Fatime is a training and informatics specialist supervisor of employment office for United Nation Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) – Labor and Employment Department.  Fatime’s previous employment includes marketing representative for Medifit International Corporation and for Zepter Corporation.  Her intention is to create an internal training unit with the Ministry of Labor in order to improve the competency career counselors and placement advisors.
Fatime lives with her husband and two daughters in Prishtina.

Melinda Mula

Melinda studied mathematics in the University of Prishtina in the Faculty of Mathematics and Science. Currently she is attending master studies in mathematics also in the University of Prishtina. As a mathematic professor Melinda works for Kosovo Education Center (KEC) as a Program Manager-Coordinator of Reading and Writing for Critical Thinking (RWCT) Program designed by International Reading Association, where she is directly involved in the process of education. Apart from this Melinda is also an assistant professor in Mathematics Department of Faculty of Mathematics and Science. Melinda’s previous employment includes a professor of mathematics in “Hajdar Dushi” High School in Gjakova; and administrative assistant in a factory “ Electromotor” in Gjakova.
In Washington Melinda had an opportunity to work for International Reading Association where she currently works as a coordinator of a program design by IRA. Melinda’s aim is to establish Kosovar Reading Association (KRA), a professional organization with an individual and institutional membership. It will include all the people who are interested to contribute on improvement of the reading as a necessary process of intellectual development of individuals and the development of literacy at all.
Melinda lives and works in Prishtina capital of Kosova.

Mimoza Polloshka

Mimoza is a Project Assistant of Women Initiative Program for Malteser Hilfsdienst (German NGO) in Gjakova, Kosova. Her main responsibilities are presentation of the program, interpretation and translation of written materials, identification of potential projects and potential implementing partners, promotion of networking amongst local NGO’s and offering advice to local NGO’s. Mimoza also worked as teaching assistant in the University of Prishtina in Faculty of Natural Sciences; as an interpreter for medical staff for Danish People’s Aid; and as a professor of Mathematics in “Hajdar Dushi” High School in Gjakova. Mimoza graduated in 1995 in Mathematics in Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Prishtina.
As a Hope Fellow in Washington she worked for World Learning.
Mimosa desires to strengthen existing women’s organization through trainings and building NGO capacity. Mimoza lives and works in Gjakova.

Donika Salihu

Donika graduated in graphic design in faculty of art of Prishtina University in 1991. Donika is Program Officer of Quality Education Program of Catholic Relief Services (CRS). As a qualified teacher, Donika is committed to assisting parents, teachers, administrators and all educators through the education reform process in Kosova. Donika’s primary responsibility is the development of local Parent-Teacher Councils. Donika’s prior employment were a field officer in the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC); teacher of fine arts in “Gjin Gazuli” high school; and as an assistant of “Dodona” gallery of arts.
In Washington Donika had an opportunity to gain experience while observing staff members of Montgomery County Department of Family and Community Partnerships.
Donika’s main goal is to promote the active involvement of parents and teachers in the education reform process and the development of quality learning at local primary school level throughout Kosova. Donika lives in Prishtina with her husband and two children. 

Kymete Bajraktari

Kymete graduated from University of Prishtina in 1997 with a degree in Physics. She held several teaching positions until September 2001 when she was appointed a High School principle in Suhareka located in Southern part of Kosova. Her responsibilities incude…..
In Washington she desired to gain more knowledge regarding setting up a national association for secondary school principals. Her primary research site was the United States National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

Silvana Domi

Since December 2000 Silvana has been working in a micro-finance institution as an assistant of credit coordinator program and credit officer. Her responsibities….. She began her finance career in an industrial organization “Metaliku” in Gjakova as a chief of planning and analyses. In 1982 she started at the National Bank of Kosova as an exchange rate analyst.  After the war she worked as coordinator for balance and payment at the Banking Authority and Payment in Prishtina. During the fellowship she met with several banking and finance institutions, Citi Bank-New York, Federal Reserve, and ASDI Voca. In the city of Gjakova, she plans to work towards creating the conditions for expansion of the city’s only financial institution, International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) – Kosovo Enterprise Program (KEP), from a small micro lending facility to a full-service bank. Silvana lives in Gjakova with her husband and her two daughters and a son.

Mimoza Dushi

Mimoza studied Geography at the Science faculty of the University of Prishtina. She graduated in 1995 and continued receiving her master degree in demography in 1998.  Since 1996 Mimoza began working as assistant professor at the University of Prishtina, Geography Department. As an assistant professor she is responsible for lectures and exams. Her past experiences include demographic researcher for UNHCR, research coordinator and interpreter.  While in Washington she researched at the US Census Bureau acquiring information on how to conduct and analyze census results. Mimoza’s aim is to provide assistance to the Statistical Office of Kosova to conduct their census.
Mimoza lives in Prishtina with her parents, her three sisters and a brother.

Burbuqe Hana

Burbuqe studied electrical engineering at the University of Prishtina.  She currently is employed by Post and Telecommunication of Kosova (PTK) as a Value Added Services (VAS) team leader for mobile phones.  Her responsibilities include … Immediately after graduation Burbuqe worked at a technical high school in Mitrovica as a lecturer.  In addition, she worked for Fund for Open Society as a contract teacher.  Just prior to working for PTK she worked for the International Committee of Red Cross as a finance assistant.  While in Washington, Burbuqe researched management and marketing strategies for telecom companies.  She had the opportunity to visit and meet with members of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), lawmakers, and Verizon’s vice president for external affairs (one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world).  Burbuqe hopes to use her new knowledge to strengthen PTK’s ability to grow and be competitive when other telephone operators enter the market in Kosova in the near future.

Manushe Karaçi

Manushe is Municipal Court Judge for Civil Cases. Her responsibilities…..
She studied Law in the University of Prishtina and received a degree in 1988.
Manushe received Juris Doctorat (JD) in 1990. Just after the war Manuhse worked for an NGO called “ Norwegian Refugee Council” as a lawyer. During her fellowship in Washington she researched gender equality at The Superior Courts of District of Columbia. She also had the opportunity to visit Wilmington, Delaware’s family courts. She hopes to use her new knowledge to educate the public on equal rights and court proceedings. Manushe was born in Gjakova and lives in Prishtina with her parents.

Ardiana Krasniqi

Ardiana is an economic analyst at the Ministry of Finance and Economy in the Department of Economic Policy.  She creates weekly revenue reports from customs, excise, VAT, presumptive tax, and sales tax, and assists analyzing Kosova imports/exports.  She also analyze on a weekly basis vehicle registration fees and hotel and restaurant taxes.  During her fellowship in Washington D.C. she studied economic forecasting at the Arlington County’s Office of the Commission of Revenue. She graduated in 2001 from the University of Prishtina in Management and Information, Economic Faculty.

Vjosa Mullatahiri

With Electronic Engineer background, Vjosa is a Business Consultant at Community Habitat Finance International (CHF). Her responsibilities include recruiting, assessing and submitting businesses for enrollment as a new Kosovo Construction and Employment program (KCEP) client; assisting clients with their businesses problems, business and financial planning and in accessing credit and contracts; and monitoring client’s progress in achieving stated business objectives.
Vjosa studied Electronics in the Electro-technical Faculty of Prishtina University from 1987-1992.
Prior to working for CHF, Vjosa worked as Democratization Assistant for OSCE and as tracing Supervisor & Project Education Officer for Save the Children.
Vjosa’s placement site in Washington was CHF HQ and she had numerous meetings with business development sector.
Her project aim is to promote start-up production enterprises by providing the correct information to local investors in order to generate their interest in investing. Vjosa lives in Gjakova with her husband, daughter and son.

Shqipe Pantina

Shqipe’s passion is to strengthen rule of law in Kosova. Currently Shqipe is Program Assistant for National Democratic Institute’s International Affairs Civic Forum Program. She is responsible for assisting with developing and conducting training sessions, building working relationships with partner organization and individuals throughout Kosova, and assisting in a development and supervision of the Civic Forum Moderator team.
Shqipe received a degree of English Language and Literature from Higher School in Prizren. She is currently pursuing a degree from the University of Prishtina in political science and public administration.  While in Washington Shqipe worked at Verizon’s Public Outreach ??? and Generations United in order to learn about advocacy and coalition building. She had opportunity to shadow Congressman Earl Pomeroy and his staff for one week.  Shqipe’s aim is to build a coalition between youth and senior citizens for a better future for Kosova.