Networks

Adelina Bilalli

Ms. Bilalli graduated from the American University in Kosovo in 2012 and is eager to further her studies in an American educational institution with the aim of better developing her skills and abilities. She was awarded the IPKO Foundation scholarship for the last two years of the studies at AUK as well as an institutionally-funded scholarship as a result of her high GPA.
Her work experience includes working as a Print Manager at Studio Moderna. She intends to contribute to Kosovo in the field of Business Management after completing her degree.

Ardijan Seferi

Mr. Seferi completed his undergraduate studies in Computer Science and Engineering at the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Prishtina in 2014. Recently, he is worked as a Software Security Analyst for a German company in Ferizaj. Besides having a full time job there, he is also part of the LIMAK Airport Services Institute at Prishtina International Airport.
He believes that this program will provide him with the in-depth knowledge and the advanced training he needs to develop the necessary skills and expertise in the field. His research interests lie in application of sound principles to the synthesis and analyses of computer systems.
He is also interested in practicing innovative thinking and believes that encouraging scientific and technological developments is key to making Kosovo a capable competitor in the international scene. Another of his goals is to help foster a teamwork culture, thus allowing Kosovo institutions to be market trend savvy and part of modern world processes.

Aferdita Zherka

Ms. Zherka graduated from Haxhi Zeka University in Accounting and Finance and is in her final year of studies towards a Bachelor Degree in English Language and Literature at the University of Prishtina. She was an exchange student for one academic year at the University of Louisiana at Monroe where she studied General Business. She has worked as an English teacher at the Cambridge School of Languages and had an internship at Post and Telecom of Kosovo. She also worked part time in housing company Monroe Housing Authority in the United States. Most recently, she worked in a project of the Kosovo Democratic Institute in cooperation with the Municipality of Gjakova. She hopes that her master studies in Business Management will empower her professionally and enable her to contribute more to her community.

Agnesa Belegu

Agnesa Belegu was born in the city of Peja, Kosovo. Her passion for the gaming industry turned into her profession during her CS bachelor studies, when she was granted a scholarship to study Game Design in the city of Gjovik, Norway. Shortly after returning from Norway, Agnesa moved to the US to continue her graduate studies at UCF’s Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (a.k.a. FIEA), as a scholar of the USAID’s Transformational Leadership Programme. She was the ideator and lead designer of the well-acclaimed capstone project - the story-driven adventure known as “Child No More”. During her time in the US, Agnesa also worked at EA Sports as a game designer for NBA Live. After returning to Kosovo, she aspires to give back by teaching and incite the gaming community to become an active part of the industry, starting with the younger generations and working her way up.

Alban Zeka

Mr. Zeka completed his studies in Applied Arts and Sciences at the American University in Kosovo in 2010. He most recently worked at NGO Me Dhe Per Femijet.  He has worked at NGO Kosova Charity and co-founded NGO Global-Synergy, as an Account Handler at one of the leading marketing agencies in Kosovo, Zero-Pozitive Publicist, and at the Paper Communications as Media Chief Officer. His work experience also includes working at Dukagjini Corporation in the library and publishing house sector as Bookshop Chief Officer. He is interested in studying Strategic Management, considering it one of the most needed fields in establishing and developing a friendly business environment in Kosovo. He believes that Strategic Management would enable him to help businesses in Kosovo through government institutions and through the private sector. While in the United States, he is willing to represent the market of Kosovo as high potential possibility for international companies and specifically to the Kosovar ex-patriots in the U.S.

Albe Gjonbalaj

Ms. Gjonbalaj completed her bachelor’s degree in International Business at HAMK University of Applied Sciences in Finland where established the HAMK Model United Nations Club and participated in the Harvard National Model United Nations Conference.  During her undergraduate studies, Ms. Gjonbalaj also worked for GIZ (German Corporation for International Cooperation), a German Government Organization, where she wrote her undergraduate thesis with the project Rural Economic Development. After completion of her studies, Ms. Gjonbalaj worked for Deloitte Albania and Kosova as an Associate in the Financial Advisory Services unit.  Ms. Gjonbalaj believes that the pursuit of her Master’s degree in International Economics with a focus in Finance will equip her with the knowledge imperative to help businesses thrive. Furthermore, she hopes to contribute in designing and implementing policies that ensure economic development in Kosovo. Upon completion of her graduate studies in the U.S., she plans to resume her work in financial advisory while pursuing her Ph.D. in International Economics and Finance.

Anemone Zeneli

Ms. Zeneli graduated from Syracuse University with a Master in Teaching and Curriculum.
Her background working with The Ideas Partnership has provided her with a solid grounding in small yet transformational applications of inclusive education. Ms. Zeneli hopes to contribute to Kosovo’s education with focus on critical pedagogy while promoting students’ role in the meaning-making processes.

Arben Kacanolli

Mr. Kacanolli graduated from Willamette University, with a Master of Business Administration for Business, Government and Not-For-Profit Management.
He completed his Bachelor’s degree in 2014.  He has participated in internships in the financial sector and has a solid grounding via his work at TEB Bank.  Mr. Kaçonolli’s focuses on Kosovo’s development transition and SME-s. He believes that successful and numerous SMEs are crucial for Kosovo’s economic development transition because of their positive effect in GDP and in reducing the unemployment.

Ardian Cakolli

Mr. Cakolli completed his Bachelor Degree studies at the University of Prishtina Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering in 2013. He has experience in programming, and recently was working as a Web Developer at Trokit Creative Agency. During his internship at UNICEF Innovation Lab, he worked in an open source project designed to help minority communities and people on remote regions of Kosovo to register their children and obtain citizenship. His research interests lie in the field of programming languages, from theory to design and implementation, with focus on open source technologies. He is eager to learn more about real time communication technologies on the web, artificial intelligence, and mobile programming. Speaking, inspiring and teaching about latest technologies concerning his field of expertise is something he looks forward to contributing to in Kosovo in the future.

Arif Hoti

Mr. Berisha graduated from Indiana University with a Master of Laws degree.

Volunteer placement status: He accomplished his firs volunteer hours with International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES). He provided volunteer services in the capacity of Trainer and Research Consultant. Mr. Berisha started his contribution at Democracy Plus. He will be helping them draft strategies and write project proposals. He will start contributing and donating his volunteer hours to American Advising Center in Prishtina. He will conduct a training for Civic Education and also help AAC develop their Career Center

Armend Berisha

Mr. Berisha obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Sciences at the University of Prishtina and another Bachelor degree in Business and Management at Universum College. He has over five years’ experience in the higher education sector as Campus Coordinator at Universum College. He is committed to the education sector and is eager to complete his MA studies in the field of Higher Education. Upon his return, he hopes to serve the higher education sector in Kosovo by professionalizing the fields of student affairs, career advising, curriculum development and overall academic management in Kosovo. He also hopes to establish a think tank in higher education research and to contribute to reducing the information asymmetry that currently hinders educational policy making in Kosovo.

Armend Verbovci

Mr. Verbovci graduated from the Florida Institute of Technology with a Master in Aviation Safety. He was actively engaged in the Provision of Air Navigation Services with the Prishtina International Airport (PIA).
Volunteer placement status: Armend Contributed all his hours of volunteer work at Air Navigation Services Agency and he was engaged in completing the extensive application process by answering a technical and complex aeronautical questionnaire and collecting a large number of pages of the technical aviation manuals and other documentation on behalf of the organization as required by the Civil Aviation Authority of Kosovo for the certification of the organization as an Air Navigation Services Provider of the Republic of Kosovo. 
Work status: Currently, he works as Director of Safety, Quality and Security at the Air Navigation Services Agency

Arta Selmani

Ms. Selmani graduated from the California State University East Bay with a Master of Business Administration.
Volunteer placement status: Arta is interested to start with her volunteer work on writing articles on Foreign Investment and Entrepreneurship in Kosovo. She considers that her skills gained during her studies in the US will help new businesses gain new clients and operate in international market
Work status: Currently she is working in her own private business located in Croatia and she is in the process of opening her representative office in Kosovo.

Artan Salihu

Mr. Salihu graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master of Science in Telecommunications.
Volunteer placement status: Artan is placed at World Learning in the capacity of Consultant and Subcommittee Member for the Advisory Committee to identify, quantify and prioritize ICT needs of UP and other public universities and develop funding recommendations. He will be in charge of Evaluating the ICT profile of UP per the following factors; Develop a baseline -profile for peer institutions in the Balkans and any other appropriate regions; Quantify the investment- financial, human resources, time-required to bring UP to a global standard; Make recommendations that will aid policy- makers, UP senior management, and other stakeholders in bringing UP to a global standard.
Work status: He is working in a private company.

Arzana Myderrizi

Arzana completed a Master of Arts Degree in Economics at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN.
Volunteer placement status:  Arzana is completing her volunteer hours at RIT Kosovo in the capacity of Teaching Assistant for the USAID TLP Public Policy Development and Leadership Course.
Employment status: Arzana is currently working as a Researcher for UBO Consulting, which is a research and consulting firm based in Prishtina.

Astrit Tafolli

Mr. Tafolli completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science at the University of Prishtina in 2012 and also completed another Bachelor’s Degree in English Language and Literature at the University of Prishtina in 2011. He has participated in the Workshop Team in the Church of the Nazarene since 2008 and has worked as an English Language Teacher at the New Age School since 2010, both in Prishtina. Upon his return from the U.S., he hopes to influence decision-making processes both in the governmental or non-governmental sectors to help make positive changes in Kosovo a reality.

Bardha Maxhuni

Ms. Maxhuni graduated from American University in Washington DC with the Master in Law.
Volunteered placement status: Bardha is placed at the Kosovo Privatization Agency in the capacity of Consultant for legal analysis and advices to the specific departments.
Employment status: Currently works at Group for Legal and Political Studies as a main project researcher

Bejtush Ademi

Mr. Ademi completed his studies at Willamette University with a Master of Business Administration for Business, Government and Not-For-Profit Management.
Volunteer placement status:  Bejtush is interested to start his professional volunteer engagement with Riinvest institute in the capacity of the researcher, and also at the University of Prishtina as Teaching Assistant.

Work status: currently he is working at Meridian Express.

Besart Lumi

Mr. Lumi graduated from the University of Denver with a Master’s in Conflict Resolution.
Volunteer placement status:  Besart is interested in starting his volunteer hours and help small NGO’s write project proposals in the capacity of consultant and write articles on conflict resolution.
Work status: Currently he is working at the KCSF Institute

Besfort Kosova

Mr. Kosova completed his Bachelor of Sociology Degree at the University of Prishtina in 2012. Due to the excellent results in his studies, he was awarded two financial scholarships, one from the Municipality of Mitrovica and the other from the University of Prishtina. He has worked as a volunteer in the local NGO Community Building Mitrovica and took part in the Kosovo Summer Youth Leadership Academy, funded by the US Government. He became a member of a political party New Kosova Alliance whose goal is to champion economic prosperity for the people of Kosovo. Upon completion of his studies in the U.S., he plans to start a business in Kosovo with same-minded partners, and positively contribute for the faster development of his country.

Besjan Kurtishi

Mr. Kurtishi completed both a Bachelor of Technology and Informatics and a Bachelor of English Language and Literature at the University of Prishtina. He worked as an ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Teacher at Mehmet Akif College in Gjakova since 2013. He is looking forward to further his studies to be able to contribute more to the community in the Information and Communication Technology area. He believes these studies will be a great opportunity for him to expand his range of using ICT teaching in a more advanced, productive, fun, attractive and practical way. This range would include more specific knowledge on the recent use of technology and public awareness on how to make it more user friendly and efficient in Kosovo.

Blerim Murtezi

Mr. Murtezi received his Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration and International Relations from the Universum College in 2014. He also attended all lectures in the English Language and Literature program at the University of Prishtina and courses in Business Law, Litigation and Intellectual Property Licensing by international academic staff. In addition to extracurricular activities, he represented Kosovo’s delegation in the Harvard National Model United Nations 2014 conference in Boston and has worked as a Research Assistant at the Kosovar Institute for Policy Research and Development - KIPRED. He believes that a MPA from the U.S. will improve his competency and allow him to work with any decision making body of the government of Kosovo, particularly in economic and social reform.

Blond Gerqari

Mr. Gerqari completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Arts and Sciences with concentrations in Management and Public Policy and a minor in Economics and Statistics at the American University in Kosovo in 2013. Mr. Gerqari has experience in both non-governmental organizations and private companies. During his studies Mr. Gerqari was a Public Information Officer at Kosovo Banking Association (KBA), and most recently was a Product Developer at IPKO Telecommunications, LLC.
He believes that education is the most valuable element for one’s personal development and therefore is pursuing studies in Business Administration in the U.S. He hopes that through completion of his program he will gain the right tools and knowledge to enable Kosovo’s youth to take part in key decision making processes.

Bujar Rexhepi

Mr. Gerqari completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Arts and Sciences with concentrations in Management and Public Policy and a minor in Economics and Statistics at the American University in Kosovo in 2013. Mr. Gerqari has experience in both non-governmental organizations and private companies. During his studies Mr. Gerqari was a Public Information Officer at Kosovo Banking Association (KBA), and most recently was a Product Developer at IPKO Telecommunications, LLC.
He believes that education is the most valuable element for one’s personal development and therefore is pursuing studies in Business Administration in the U.S. He hopes that through completion of his program he will gain the right tools and knowledge to enable Kosovo’s youth to take part in key decision making processes.

Burbuqe Muhadri

Ms. Muhadri graduated from the Illinois Institute of Technology and became a Master of Science in Finance degree. 
Volunteer placement status: Burbuqe is interested in starting her contribution with the non-governmental sector and donate her volunteer hours in the capacity of consultant at Women in business NGO.

Work status: Currently she is working at Danish Refuge Council

Dafina Krasniqi

Ms. Krasniqi graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Master’s of Arts degree.
Volunteer placement status:  Dafina will be starting her professional volunteer writing articles for TLP CC on the theme: Developments in the health sector in Kosovo, with regards to investments, prominent needs and an overview of the health system from the patient’s perspective between the US and Kosovo.
Work status: Currently she is working at the “Action for Mothers and Children” NGO

Dardan Bekaj

Mr. Bekaj finished his undergraduate studies at the American University of Kosovo in the field of Management and Public Policy in 2012 and worked in an internship program in Oslo, Norway. He worked in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as an Assistant Coordinator of the Interfaith Kosovo Initiative. He also works as a volunteer in various non-governmental organizations such as the Liberal Institute and Special Olympics Kosovo. He recently attended two courses on “Creativity and Innovation” and “Europe and Its Neighbors – EU External Relations at a Crossroads” at the Alpbach Forum 2014 in Austria.
He is pursuing studies in International Affairs to broaden his knowledge of the social, political and economic forces in contemporary policy challenges, especially in the Balkans. Upon his return to Kosovo, he intends to seek employment with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and to continue working for the Interfaith Kosovo Initiative. He also hopes to work at the Liberal Institute for Policy Research, as a part-time volunteer, promoting European Integration and Democratization in Kosovo.
His ultimate aim is to promote a public administration in Kosovo that is respectful of differences and performs on the basis of respect, tolerance, gender equality and professionalism as a policy-maker who is able to reform the state, work with international organizations and civil societies, and empower minority groups.

Dardan Berisha

Mr. Berisha graduated from Indiana University with a Master of Laws degree.

Volunteer placement status: He accomplished his firs volunteer hours with International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES). He provided volunteer services in the capacity of Trainer and Research Consultant. Mr. Berisha started his contribution at Democracy Plus. He will be helping them draft strategies and write project proposals. He will start contributing and donating his volunteer hours to American Advising Center in Prishtina. He will conduct a training for Civic Education and also help AAC develop their Career Center.

Dardan Shabani

Mr. Shabani graduated from the University of Rochester with a Master of Science degree.
Volunteer placement status:  Dardan is interested to start his volunteer work and give his contribution to KETNET in the position of a trainer -Presentation – TESOL.
Work status: Currently he is working at University of Prishtina - Teaching Assistant and Oxford School

Dardan Xhymshiti

Mr. Xhymshiti graduated with a Bachelor of Computer Sciences from the University of Prishtina in 2014 where, as an undergraduate student, he was always interested in methodologies and processes used for developing application databases for computer and web platforms. His most successful project is I CAN, which in the first days of its release counted a thousand registered users. He co-founded a start-up called Horizont, in which he does web programming and design as a hobby. He intends to become a specialist in the field of Computer Science, and he plans to focus his career on encouraging institutions and organizations in Kosovo to apply information systems applications as a primary step in improving their quality of services.

Dijana Cena

Ms. Cena graduated from Indiana University with a Master of Law’s degree.
Volunteer placement status:  Dijana has identified her placement site and will soon start giving back her volunteer hours at Kosovo Education Center KEC.
Work status: Currently, she works as a Senior Program Assistant at OSCE.

Dina Rugova

Dina Rugova is an MBA candidate at Willamette University with a focus in accounting.

Dita Dobranja

Ms. Dobranja graduated from the American University with a Master’s in International Economics.
Volunteer placement status:  Dita will as a start she will give back her volunteer hours to TLPCC by writing articles on theme Development Economy and Gender Economy.
Work status: Currently she is working at Riinvest Institute in the capacity of the Advanced Researcher as well as in the capacity of the Lecturer at Riinvest College.

Dite Gashi

Mr. Gashi graduated from the Illinois Institute of Technology with a Master of Business Administration.
Volunteer placement status:  Dite is giving back his volunteer hours to American Council-KAEF Planning “The night of the Rising Stars” event in the same time raising awareness about the KAEF fundraiser events, help with the smooth processing of the event and provide his assistance on all the preparations beforehand. Moreover, he will continue to give his contribution to the program “YES” activities during this time.
Work status: Bitsaphire – Private Company.

Donjeta Demolli

Ms. Demolli completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology at the University of Prishtina in 2014. She has been working in different organizations related to Media, Minorities, Gender Equality, and Social Research, and she is particularly interested in Gender and Interdisciplinary Studies such as Politics and Media. During her master studies she intends to gain a whole new horizon of academic knowledge in the field of Gender Studies focusing on Feminist Theories, Women and Politics, Gender Roles, impact of Media in Gender Stereotypes, Art and Feminism and Women’s Literature, and to prepare herself for contributing to the growth of scientific research in Gender Studies. Her main objective is to be a senior researcher in the field of Gender Studies.

Donjeta Murati

Ms. Murati graduated in Sociology from the University of Prishtina and has worked as a researcher on various research projects in Kosovo which emphasized agents of social structures such as culture, gender and clientelism. She also worked at Stacion - Center for Contemporary Art Prishtina where she was engaged in various research activities and assistance in developing the institution’s annual program.
Ms. Murati will continue her education in Sociology with a focus on sociology of culture and arts, discourse analysis, and gender. In the future, she hopes to continue conducting substantial research projects with the necessary tools to identify the patterns and embedded notions that impact, shape and maintain unequal social structures.

Dorina Grezda

Ms. Grezda graduated from the University of Maine with a Master of Science in Resource Economics and Policy.
Volunteer placement status:  Dorina was placed and provided volunteer services to Gjakova Municipality in the capacity of Chief of Staff for the Mayer’s Cabinet. Dorina was in charge of making sure that everything is coordinated with other directories within the Municipality, participate in meetings with donors/citizens/ and other parties, accompany the Mayor in meeting outside of Municipality, help the staff to perform their duties to the best of their ability and make sure to follow up on different projects.
Work status: after finished her professional volunteer hours she started working at Gjakova Municipality.

Doruntine Berisha

Ms. Berisha graduated from the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the department of Telecommunication at the University of Prishtina. Recently, she was part of a research project called “Assessment of personal exposure to environmental radiofrequency electromagnetic fields- Comparative research Kosovo vs Europe exposure levels”.
Apart from her academic activities, she was part of the incubator in Innovation Centre Kosovo. She is the Co-Founder and CEO of the L.L.C Ctrl+F, and worked for three years as a Staff Coordinator for ANIBAR, the International Animation Festival in Peja. She is interested in advancing her academic career in the field of Telecommunication Engineering. Upon completion of her Master’s Degree, she is plans to work for some years and gain experience in her specialized field. During that time she plans to undertake research projects on the electromagnetic fields levels in Kosovo, in order to help create a safer environment.

Dren Puka

Mr. Puka completed his undergraduate studies in Economics at AAB – Riinvest University. He has worked for various local NGOs dealing with youth empowerment, policy analysis and civil society development and most recently worked as researcher at Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF).
Mr. Puka was a professional table tennis player and representative of the Kosovar National Team for Table Tennis in European championships. His professional career combined with an ongoing education is projected to serve as the foundation that will make possible for him to channel his experience and desire in contributing both from the perspective of an eventual academic and from the standpoint of a specialized institute in education policy.

Driton Pustina

Mr. Pustina graduated from the American University in Kosovo, obtaining a Bachelor of Science with a double major in Economics and Statistics, Management, and a minor concentration in International Relations. His work experience consists of three internship positions and two full time working experiences in the private and public sector in Kosovo. These experiences helped him decide to pursue a Master of Science degree in Finance with a concentration in Corporate Finance. Upon completion of his studies in the U.S., he intends to return to Kosovo and engage in driving change by sharing the knowledge and experience obtained through his degree

Ebru Sulejman

Ms. Suleyman graduated from the American University with a Master of Arts degree in International Affairs, from the program Global Governance, Politics and Security.
Volunteer placement status:  Ebru is placed at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. She works as a researcher/officer for the Department of European Integration, Legal Department and Department of Author’s Rights and Related Rights. At the same time, she is looking for the possibilities for the second placement.

Edon Ymeri

Mr. Ymeri completed his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management with Merit at the University of Sheffield in Thessaloniki, Greece. Since 2013, he has worked in the Human Resource Division for the Rugove Company – one of Kosovo’s most successful domestic producers. He also works in the family business, which is a small retail electronics store in Prishtina. He hopes to further expand his areas of experience and serve his country.

Edona Peci

Ms. Peci graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Master of Public Administration and Non-Profit Studies.
Volunteer placement status:  Edona will start placement at ISPE College. She will donate her volunteer hours in the capacity of the Lecturer for the Human Recourses Course. She will also contribute in the office for research at ISPE. Moreover her second placement will be with NGO Women 4 Women Kosovo helping them creating PR strategy of the NGO.

Egzon Bajrami

Mr. Bajrami graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Master of Science in Agricultural Economics.
Volunteer placement status: Egzon has started to donate his volunteer hours in the University of Prishtina, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary as a Teaching Assistant. He is also engaged as a second placement at NGO Germin and will donate 200 hours helping Germin Develop four policy briefs about economic development.

Egzon Berisha

Mr. Berisha graduated from the Illinois Institute of Technology with a Master of Business Administration.
Volunteer placement status:  Egzon was placed at Management and Development Agency (MDA). He provided volunteer services for MDA in the capacity of Consultant and his duties and responsibilities were to provide consulting services to private clients in Kosovo and Albania and carry out research and data collection into industry sectors and markets. He is in the process of second engagement with University of Prishtina.

Egzon Fejzullahu

Mr. Fejzullahu completed his Bachelor of International Sales and Marketing at the International Business College Mitrovica in 2014. During his studies he was engaged with various internships, such as EkonetKosova, where he has worked as Marketing and Customer Relations Officer. At the end of his studies he decided to open a start-up company and worked with business to business (B2B) companies as well as with IBCM as Coordinator Assistant. He regards SMEs to be the best generator of employment for a country’s welfare and economic growth. Upon his return to Kosovo, Mr. Fejzullahu hopes to assist Kosovo’s SMEs and start-up creations, thus contributing to social welfare and economic development.

Elban Avdylaj

Mr. Avdylaj successfully completed his bachelor studies in Computer Science at the University of Prishtina in 2013 where he showed a special interest in programming and Enterprise Application Development (EAD). In 2012, he worked for Asseco-See Turkey – a company specializing in EAD. He also worked at LinkPlus LLC, a local company which is a contractor of Lixar IT.  With this experience in the industry and area of study, Mr. Avdylaj hopes to be involved in Kosovo education, helping local companies with professional support and advice, and helping new entrepreneurs (who are focused on technology) start and grow their businesses after completing his Master’s.

Elion Gerguri

Mr. Gerguri received his Bachelor of Arts Degree with First Class Honors in Business Management and Entrepreneurship from Staffordshire University in 2014. Recently, he participated in an international summer school hosted by the University of Graz in Austria. His work experience commenced in the United States through a three-month international cultural exchange program. He plans to soon start a short-term internship program at one of the commercial banks in Kosovo and the Deposit Insurance Fund of Kosovo.  Upon his return, he would like to commence his professional career in the public sector or any local and international organization dealing with issues of sustainable economic development of Kosovo.

Engjell Rexhepi

Mr. Rexhepi graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master of Law.

Erblin Hoxha

Mr. Hoxha graduated in Political Science from the University of Pristina in 2014 where he represented his university in many international events, most importantly in the European Universities Debating Championship (EUDC) and World Universities Debating Championship (WUDC). He was engaged in training debate techniques in Kosovo for the past four years, and he is one of the founders of the NGO Pro Debate Club. He also worked at the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) as a Project Officer and for two years in Levizja FOL as debate trainer/project coordinator. Upon his return to Kosovo, he intends to work in governmental organizations towards making the best policies. He also intends to engage in the public university as a lecturer so he can solicit a greater contribution from the younger generations.

Erblin Ribari

Mr. Ribari completed his Bachelor’s degree at Texas Lutheran University, graduating with highest honors in Business Administration. He was awarded first place distinction at various national competitions in the United States in the field of business and recognized as an outstanding leader of the year and senator of the year.  While in the United States, he also worked as an Investment Analyst intern for the Bulldog Investment Company and as a Sales Operations Analyst for Rackspace Hosting. In Kosovo, Erblin worked as a Researcher at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and assisted the Office of the Permanent Secretary with investment projects. Most recently, he joined the United Nations Development Program and Swisscontact Worldwide to work on projects and initiatives to improve the business environment for local businesses in Kosovo.  Mr. Ribari developed an interest in pursuing the MBA program with a concentration in Financial Risk Management with the intention to build well-thought arguments, conduct development projects, and gain a perspective which will one day assist his country in economic development. Upon completion of the program, he plans to return home and work as a financial risk manager for relevant institutions.
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Eremire Krasniqi

Ms. Krasniqi graduated from Dartmouth College with a Master of Arts degree. Currently, she works as a Researcher for Oral History Kosovo.
She is interested in utopian feminist literature and feminist philosophy. For her MA project in Comparative Literature, she researched how transnational politics have shaped Kosovo’s local feminism and conceptualized women’s political agency. In her study she compares transnational imaginaries and utopian narratives as aesthetic and political practices.

Ermal Hoxha

Mr. Hoxha completed his Bachelor’s Degree in English Language and Literature at the University of Prishtina in 2012, where he also continued his MA studies in the field of Linguistics, until being awarded the TLP-SP scholarship to pursue his MS studies in Teaching & Curriculum in the US. He started his teaching career as a volunteer at the American Corner in Prishtina, and continued his professional career as an English Language Teacher working with primary, high school, college and adult students. On a long term basis, he wants to contribute in the field of education by working with students who want to become teachers themselves and impart the expertise he gained in the US related to Learning Theory & Instructional Design, Cultural studies theory & Education, Disability Studies & Special Education (Universal Design for Learning & Inclusive Education), Qualitative Research Theory, Educational Leadership, International/Global Education, Critical Pedagogy, and Collaboration in Schools.

Ermal Leci

Mr. Leci graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a Master of Science in Finance.
Volunteer placement status: Ermal has joint efforts with other TLP Graduate Partin Prruthi and together are creating a module of talks, trainings, workshops on the theme of “Choosing your carrier path”. They will be engaged with public high schools in Prishtina. Moreover, they are looking for other TLP graduates to join and spread the module in other cities as well.

Ermir Suldashi

Mr. Suldashi also completed his undergraduate studies in computer science at the American University in Bulgaria. As a result of his high GPA, he was accepted during his studies for the Erasmus Exchange program at the Nottingham Trent University in Nottingham, United Kingdom, and was selected as the President of the Computer Science Student Union. He has been working as a software developer at “Rrota” Sh.p.k. and has successfully completed several major projects aimed at markets in the European Union.
Based on his experience in technology, specifically Computer Science, he believes that this field is increasing in importance and therefore wishes to further continue his Computer Science education and subsequently return to Kosovo with newfound, cutting edge knowledge. Based on his potential future studies, and using recent examples from the UK and other EU countries, he wants to start a technological educational program for gifted kids aged 12-24.

Ermira Kastrati

Ms. Kastrati completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Finance at Haxhi Zeka University in 2014. She has been a member of the University Council and Vice-Chairman of the Business Faculty for one year. She also participated in the EU-Kosvet VI, “Entrepreneurship Skills for New Venture Creation”, where she won first prize in 2014. She believes that the opportunity to study abroad will allow her to gain theoretical and practical knowledge, so she can return to contribute to any organization in Kosovo. She plans to join the public administration sector after completing her master studies.

Fatos Krasniqi

Mr. Krasniqi graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a Master of Science in Finance.
Volunteer placement status: Fatos is donating his first volunteer hours at Universum College. He will be engaged in the capacity of lecturer in the Business and Management Program. Fatos will lecture in this college for an entire semester with possibilities of extending this cooperation.

Filloreta Jusufi

Ms. Jusufi completed her undergraduate studies in Computer Engineering at the University of Prishtina. Her three years of work experience were mainly focused in software development where she worked in the private and public sector in positions such as Database Developer/Administrator, Web Developer and Software Developer. She also has work experience in the Operational Management field. Her ultimate goal is to earn a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management, which will enable her to contribute in different policies and projects on technology reforms for the government, more precisely in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, upon her return from the United States.

Fis Malesori

Mr. Malesori received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pristina “Hasan Prishtina” with a major in Management and Informatics in 2014. He participated in various entrepreneurial and financial workshops and trainings, and he has also written numerous business plans and grant-proposals for potential investors and agro-cultural subsidies.
Mr. Malesori is currently pursuing his MBA in Marketing Analytics and Finance. He is an active member of the University’s MBA Association, the Crosby Analytics Association (CAA), the University of MIssouri Investment Group (UMIG), and the Toastmasters Club where he was recently elected Secretary for the Spring 2016 term.
He is continuously seeking out opportunities to build problem solving teams to tackle various problems of society, both in the United States and in Kosovo upon his return

Fitim Krasniqi

Mr. Krasniqi graduated from Kent State University with a Master of Education in Curriculum and Teaching.
Volunteer placement status: Fitim will be donating his volunteer hours to KETNET. He will help the organization organize and draft a financial plan. Although Fitim is in US for his PhD studies, he will do a virtual contribution to this institution.

Fitim Selimi

Mr. Selimi graduated from Willamette University with a Master of Business Administration for Business, Government and Not-For-Profit Management.
Volunteer placement status: Fitim is engaged and will be contributing his professional volunteer hours at Riinvest institute in the capacity of a Researcher. In the same time he is in the process of placement at the University of Prishtina as a Teaching Assistant.

Fitore Hyseni

Ms. Hyseni graduated from Syracuse University with a Master of Public Administration.
Volunteer placement status: Fitore is placed at Prosperity Initiative in Kosovo. She donated her first volunteer hours assisting in developing organization’s strategic plans and documents and creating the new Research and Evaluation component. Fitore went back to USA for her PhD studies and currently she is doing virtual contribution for PIKS in the capacity of Consultant and Researcher to conduct internal evaluations of the existing projects and conduct research on the existing economic policies impacting the youth.

Fjolla Krasniqi

Ms. Krasniqi graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master of Laws degree with a special focus on commercial law and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). Currently, she is doing freelance work in the area of law. Prior to obtaining her Master of Laws degree, Fjolla graduated from the Faculty of Law, University of Prishtina with a Bachelor of Laws degree.
Volunteer placement status: Fjolla will start giving back her volunteer hours to TLPCC by writing articles on theme of Arbitration. For personal reasons currently she is living in London-UK.

Flutura Shala

Ms. Shala obtained her Bachelor of English Language and Literature at the University of Prishtina in 2008 and has completed many online courses in the field of English and Teaching. She seeks to obtain a Master’s degree in Teaching and Curriculum while studying the prevailing theories and methodologies from diverse schools of thought to become an expert in the field in Kosovo. Upon her return, she is planning to seek a university teaching position and looks forward to contributing as a teacher-trainer.

Gente Retkoceri

Ms. Retkoceri completed her Bachelor of Architecture studies at the University of Prishtina in 2012 and, immediately after graduation, finished a four month study exchange program in Vienna on Spatial Planning. She also graduated with a Bachelor of Acting degree from the University of Prishtina and worked for Cultural Heritage without Borders and acted in theatrical plays at the National Theatre and other private theatres. Recently she has expanded her skills to include project management of video production and theatre education for children. She pursued her Masters Degree in Theater Education at Emerson College in Boston, USA. Using opportunities to be both academically and professionally active she was part of many Theater shows and short films as an actress and teaching assistant Emerson College and a group in applied drama and theatre in multicultural education with at-risk urban youth while her stay.

Gentiana Desipojci

Ms. Desipojci completed her bachelor studies at the University of Prishtina, Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and during her studies there she was granted a scholarship by AEP-HERD Program to attend a semester at Gjovik University Collage at Gjovik, Norway, as an exchange student. This opportunity helped her gain knowledge in cyber security, an information technology discipline not covered at University of Prishtina. She worked as a Junior Software Developer at Kosovo Energy Distribution System – KEDS. She is the author of an online class “Web site in ASP.net” which is published under ALMOOC (Albanian Massive Open Online Courses) platform for free online courses.
With Data Mining, Software Engineering and Cyber Security being primary areas of her interest, she is looking forward to gaining a broad foundation in Computer Science during her master’s studies. Her long-term plans are to obtain a position at a university or other institution where she can be involved in scientific research and teaching. Through this scholarship opportunity she is determined to achieve her goals towards becoming a successful Software Developer. She also wants to be a helping factor in increasing the number of young women enrolled in the ICT courses, helping them develop a career in software development and engineering.

Getoar Krasniqi

Mr. Krasniqi received his Bachelor’s Degree in Management and Economics at the American University in Kosovo in 2014. As an AUK student, he was part of AUK’s delegation at the MUN Conference in Boston. He also participated in an EU Model Conference at the American University in Bulgaria.
Moreover, he was part of AUK’s delegation for the VIS MOOT International Arbitration Conference in Vienna, and he worked as a Marketing Assistant at the Moby Fest that was organized by Pixels Productions. Later he was a Research Intern at the NGO Kosovar Stability Initiative and eKatun (www.ekatun.com), a website where small farmers can register and sell their homemade products.
He won a UNICEF Innovations Lab prize and the Social Media Award at the Future Agro Challenge in Athens as Kosovo’s representative. Upon accomplishment of his MBA studies, and return to Kosovo, he wants to apply all the knowledge and skills he acquires by helping young Kosovar entrepreneurs grow their businesses from a creative idea into a serious and stable company, with the aim to increase employment for the better well-being of Kosovars.

Gezim Zeqiri

Gezim Zeqiri completed his Master of Science in Teaching and Curriculum in the School of Education, Syracuse University in New York, with a full scholarship from USAID. His main interests include Special Education, Instructional Design and Development, and improving learning processes and teaching quality. Gezim has also completed a Bachelor Degree in Sociology from the University of Prishtina (2008) and a Master of Economic Science from the University of Prishtina (2013). He has worked as a teacher in several Kosovo primary and high schools, such as: American School of Kosova, Zenit, Pandeli Sotiri and Banja e Sijarines. In addition, he has contributed to the work of various NGOs including the Center for Humanistic Studies “Gani Bobi”, Forum of Civic Initiative, Humanistic and Cultural Association “Medvegja Forum. Mr. Zeqiri is interested in supporting education reform in Kosovo, and introducing projects which aim at increasing the quality of teaching, implementing the best practices of the learning process, and improving the learning environment of schools across the country.

Gjylbehare Llapi

Ms. Llapi graduated from the North Dakota State University with a Master of Science in Educational Leadership.
Volunteer placement status: Gjylbehare is currently placed at University of Prishtina. She is helping UP’s strategic working group in the capacity of Committee assistant to draft and develop strategies that will help the institution. Gjylbehare will be in charge of helping members of the group, responsible for the development of the Strategy Document regarding the most practical and academic aspects of the Strategy, care and monitor the involvement of all stakeholders (academic and administrative staff, students, government bodies, partners, etc.) to develop a strategy.

Goneta Kajtazi

Ms. Kajtazi received her Bachelor of Science degree from the American University in Kosovo, with majors in Economics and Statistics, and Management. In her third year of studies she co-founded the Management Club, where she also served as a co-leader until she finished her undergraduate studies. She is a Data Analyst at AVAX LLC, a knowledge process outsourcing (KPO) company in Prishtina. In addition, she works as a part time Swedish Teacher, and is the founder and CEO of Honey Hive, a bee keeping and honey production company. She is also part of the Political Academy organized by Friedrich Ebert Foundation in Prishtina. Upon her return to Kosovo she wishes to help improve the business environment in Kosovo by becoming a professional consultant. She wishes to serve as a proactive guide, and advise as many organizations as possible in assisting them to make the right decisions and foresee future trends, hence creating economic growth and improving the citizens’ well-being.

Gramos Hashani

Mr. Hashani graduated from the University of the Incarnate Word with a Master of Science in Accounting.
Volunteer placement status: Gramos is currently doing volunteer services for Municipality of Obiliq –Department of Environmental Protection. He will be donating his volunteer hours in the capacity of Consultant and he will be in charge of communicating with potential donors, prepare presentations for self-awareness campaigns, helping create new projects and Raising self-awareness for preservation of the environment.

Hana Gafurri

Ms. Gafurri graduated in Economics, Statistics and Public Policy from the American University in Kosovo in 2013. She has accomplished first level classes in the Society of Certified Accountants and Auditors of Kosovo (SCAAK) to be certified as an Accounting Technician. During her undergraduate studies, she was involved in many extracurricular activities including the Charity Club, the Economics Club, and the Model United Nations Club. In 2011, she was selected to be part of the Harvard National Model United Nations Conference (HNMUN). Most recently, she worked at the Central Bank of Kosovo in the Economic Analysis and Financial Stability Department as a Financial Stability Economist. Upon completion of her Master’s Degree in Economics, she plans to continue working at the CBK and to help improve the quality of the department’s work. She also hopes to be engaged in lecturing, to reflect the knowledge gained and multiplication of if for further qualified generations.

Isuf Zejna

Mr. Zejna graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master’s in Law. He completed his Bachelor of Law studies at Fama College in 2007, and worked as a Project Coordinator at Kosovo Democratic Institute (KDI) / Transparency International Kosova (TIK).
Volunteer placement status: Isuf is going to start his volunteer services and donate his hours to Partnership for Development Kosovo (USAID Project) implemented by Chemonics.

Jovana Radosavljevic

Ms. Radosavljevic graduated from the University of Denver with a Master’s in International Studies, with specializations in Conflict Resolution and International Development.
Volunteer placement status: Jovana has started contributing and donating her volunteer hours at NDI projects in North Mitrovica in the capacity of consultant/adviser.

Kadri Rexha

Mr. Rexha graduated from the American University in Kosovo with majors in Management, Media, and International Relations in 2013. He is the founder of Adoka Real Estate, where he provides economic and market advice to clients and ensures terms and conditions of agreements are met. He also provides consultancy and assistance to international clients. Upon his return, he intends to focus on foreign investments in either agriculture or Trepca.

Kaltrina Hoxha

Kaltrina holds a Master in International Affairs degree from Penn State University, specializing in Economic Development and International Security Policy.
Volunteer placement status: Kaltrina has started her contribution in the capacity of Teaching Assistant at RIT Kosovo in their Public Policy Development and Leadership Program.
Moreover, she is also engaged as a Researcher and Consultant at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, dealing primarily with economic diplomacy component.

Kanarina Shehu

Ms. Shehu completed her BA degree in Public Policy and Management at the American University in Kosovo and was granted two scholarships during her studies. She led the largest student volunteer club in Kosovo, AUK Charity Club, with 18 community projects and more than 90 volunteer activists for a year. Simultaneously, she was an active member of the AUK Student Government and Kosova Cap Project. Her initial work experience was with the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network, where she was promoted to Project Assistant. During this and subsequent job experiences with Public International Law and Policy Group and the Centre for Research, Documentation and Publication, she developed a special interest in advocating on behalf of vulnerable children and families of all communities. She intends to obtain a Master’s Degree in Social Work and will return to Kosovo after her studies conclude to contribute to the development of resources and networks to enhance family functioning, the safety of children and women as victims of abuse, and their education

Kastriot Rexhepi

Mr. Rexhepi graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master’s in Law. Mr. Rexhepi completed his Bachelor of Science with majors in Criminology and Psychology at Barry University in 2011. He currently works as an acting supervisor of Receipt of Seized and Confiscated Assets in the Ministry of Justice.

Labeat Fejza

Labeat Fejza graduated from the Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado with a Master of Business Administration - Global Social and Sustainable Enterprise.
Labeat finished his Bachelor studies with a major in Marketing at the University of Prishtina. He has several work experiences in the financial sector as a credit analyst, human resource officer, and in the marketing area as a freelancer. Also, he has experience in Energy sector where he worked during his studies. After earning his master degree, some of his intentions are to contribute on the business environment and the economy in Kosova. He intends to be focused on assisting local companies on sustainable growth which will directly impact the fostering of the economic development of Kosova

Labinot Bajrami

Mr. Bajrami completed his studies in Sociology at the University of Prishtina and has work experience in various areas, including with KFOR, UNMIK, RTK, and other part time jobs. He has a genuine interest in society and its dynamics including the issues of politics, power, and social change. He believes that the best way to achieve change and equality is through education. After the completion of his MA studies in the U.S. in the field of Social Work, he intends to return to Kosovo and share his knowledge through teaching at the university and working with NGO’s that deal with issues of education, politics, power, and gender.

Lavdi Zymberi

Ms. Zymberi graduated from the Illinois Institute of Technology with a Master of Public Administration.
Volunteer placement status: Currently Lavdi is donating her volunteer hours to Indo Kosovo Chamber of Commerce in the capacity of the Assistant to the President of the Chamber. She will be in charge of Planning and coordinating events, following and coordinating all admin activities allotted by senior staff and plan activities for the smooth functioning of the Chamber. She is also placed at NGO Germin as her second engagement contributing her professional volunteer hours in the capacity of a researcher. Moreover, Lavdi completed her volunteer placement at TLP - Immersion and Public Service Courses as a Teaching Assistant.

Leutrim Demiri

Mr. Demiri graduated from the University of Prishtina, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture, with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering in 2013. During his work at Eurometal Company, he had the opportunity to be part of different national and international projects, such as the Construction of the Palace of Justice Compound Project.  After the completion of his Master’s Degree studies in Civil Engineering, with a concentration on Structural Engineering, he intends to give his contribution to state building processes and the development of the economy of Kosovo.

Linda Gjergji

Ms. Gjergji completed her Bachelor Degree in Finance, Banking and Accounting at the University of Prishtina in 2012. She has been working in the banking sector since 2011, first as an Intern and then as an employee at Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo. She is very interested in working towards identifying weaknesses in Kosovo’s banking system and finding appropriate solutions and strategies to achieve their elimination in order to positively influence the progress of society and lead Kosovo towards positive changes.
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Liridon Mavriqi

Mr. Mavriqi completed his Bachelor of Science in Applied Arts and Sciences at the American University in Kosovo. He has worked for the Government of Kosovo and led the privatization of state owned energy and telecom companies, as well as managed a project on developing a new 600 MW coal fired power plant. In addition, he has been highly active in setting policies on the energy and mining sector and promoting the use of renewable energy. After the completion of his MBA studies, he plans to be engaged in developing projects in regulated sectors, including energy, mining, telecom, and infrastructure.

Liza Gashi

Liza Gashi is a public policy professional with experience in project and campaign management, qualitative analysis and big data, and multi-stakeholder engagement in Kosovo, the United States, Costa Rica and Argentina. Liza is a founding member of Germin and the www.kosovodiaspora.org platform. She has also founded and currently leads the United World Colleges Committee in Kosovo (UWC Kosova), which has administered scholarships for Kosovo high school students to attend UWC colleges in 16 different countries. Liza completed a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at Arizona State University, and holds a bachelor degree from Wartbrug College (IA) in International Relations, Political Science and Spanish. She is a graduate of United World College in Costa Rica, and studied for a semester at the National University of Córdoba in Argentina.

Lorez Qehaja

Ms. Qehaja graduated in Economics and Statistics at the American University in Kosovo where she was awarded with a merit based scholarship for four consecutive years and was a winner of the IPKO Foundation scholarship. During her senior year, she was elected as an outstanding undergraduate scholar of RIT and an Honor Society Student of AUK. In 2012, she worked as an intern in the Treasury Department at ProCredit Bank. She worked as a Math Tutor at the Academic Support Center at AUK for one and a half years and, since February 2014, she is working as a Project Coordinator at ProCon Group.
Ms. Qehaja believes that agriculture is Kosovo’s best potential to secure economic and social development, and that the relationship between agriculture and trade supports the development of econometric policies that would leverage Kosovo’s trade imbalance. Through this program, she is aiming to gain further knowledge on agriculture commodities trade so that she can return and establish the regulatory office for agriculture commodities futures exchange in Kosovo after her studies conclude.

Lulzim Bucolli

Mr. Bucolli graduated from New York University with a Master of Arts degree.
Volunteer placement status: Lulzim has started his engagement at NGO Gaia in the capacity of Drama Teacher for Roma Children at Gracanica community center. Also he is in the process engagement at the University of Prishtina faculty of Art as a Teaching Assistant.

Lum Zhavelli

Mr. Zhaveli earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at University of Sheffield in 2013 and worked briefly after graduation as a software engineer for Alt3c. He is one of the leaders of the Association of Computing Machinery Kosovo, an international organization supporting IT professionals, with a number of computer applications to his credit already. Mr. Zhaveli is also Kosovo’s top male swimmer, and will continue to train in the United States while completing his Master’s degree in order to represent Kosovo in the 2016 Olympics.

Lumbardh Agaj

Mr. Agaj completed his Bachelor degree in Mathematics and Computer Sciences at the University of Prishtina in 2014. His plans after finishing his studies in the U.S. are to return to Kosovo and run his own company that provides ICT services, focusing on promoting the youth. He considers that the current market in Kosovo regarding ICT services, particularly in Software Development, does not offer enough choices or space for young, unexperienced, ambitious and passionate developers. Another of his objectives is to teach in a public or private university in Kosovo.

Majlinda Ruhani

Ms. Ruhani finished her Bachelor studies in Management and Informatics at the University of Pristina where she was part of several internship programs at different institutions of Kosovo, including KEK, AKP, and FKPK. She also volunteered at the Career Development Center at the University of Prishtina. Upon her return to Kosovo she intends to work in improving Kosovo’s economic environment and development of the financial sector, leading to better entrepreneurial culture that will facilitate business operations for existing and new companies, as well as foreign investments.

Marigona Morina

Ms. Morina graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Master of Education in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.
Marigona donated her first volunteer hours in a capacity of English Teacher to BONEVET Summer Camp. Her main objective was making students interact with each other and learn new important things by using the English language. Her second volunteer engagement is with American Advising Center as she will teach advanced English to high school students who want to study in the U.S. but cannot afford to pay for preparatory courses.

Marigona Shabiu

Ms. Shabiu holds two Bachelor Degrees: one in Political Science from the University of Prishtina and the other in Public Service Management from the International Business College in Mitrovica. She has done voluntary work within the civil society sector, working as a youth volunteer, activist and educator of human rights, peace and intercultural diversity. She hopes her studies will enable her to become a well-educated expert of public policies. Upon her return, she hopes to be actively involved in the social and economic development of Kosovo, an agent of positive change working directly in the field of policy making and implementation in the local and central government, as well as the civil society sector.

Meriton Qerimi

Mr. Qerimi earned his Bachelor’s Degree from the American University in Kosovo with majors in Management, Economics and Statistics, and a minor in Public Policy. He completed two summer school courses in Prishtina on the “Entrepreneurship and Business Plan Preparation in the 21st Century”.
Upon completion of his studies, he intends to contribute to society and the country by supporting and motivating young entrepreneurs and advising them on establishment of businesses that would benefit the economy of Kosovo.

Minator Maxhuni

Mr. Maxhuni graduated with high honors from Golden Gate University with a Master of Science in Finance, specializing in investments.

During his studies, he interned as financial analyst with a leading clean energy fund in San Francisco, California. Previously, he completed his bachelor’s and master’s degree in banking and accounting at the University of Prishtina, and was awarded with three scholarships for academic excellence during his studies. He has a great passion for becoming a highly regarded investment professional. In addition to his academic degrees, Minator has also gained additional certificates abroad, including ones on: Financial Market Analysis by the International Monetary Fund in Vienna, and the Implementation of Monetary Policy by the European Central Bank in Frankfurt. Mr. Maxhuni has extensive work experience in the banking sector having worked for a year at a commercial bank before joining the Central Bank of Kosovo as Investment Analyst, where he worked for almost 4 years.

Immediately after his return from the United States, he joined the Kosovo Pension Savings Trust, where he hopes to utilize all the knowledge gained in the United States.

Mjellma Zhuta

Ms. Zhuta graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Master of Arts degree.

Mrike Aliu

Ms. Aliu completed her bachelor studies in Applied Arts and Sciences at the American University in Kosovo where she established the Charity Club, the first philanthropy-focused student group at the university.  In 2011, she was selected as the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Outstanding Female Scholar.  Ms. Aliu wants to contribute to improving Kosovo’s health system in health education and policy, health services management, or maternal and child health.

Nehat Dobratiqi

Mr. Dobratiqi graduated from the University of Maine with a Master of Arts in Economics.
Volunteer placement status: Nehat hase started his first placement in giving back component at NGO Germin in capacity of the Researcher. Also he is in the process of second placement at University of Prishtina as Teaching Assistant.

Nertile Latifi

Ms. Latifi graduated early from the American University with a Master of Public Administration specializing in International Management.
Volunteer placement status: Nertilë has started her professional volunteer engagement with UNICEF Innovation Lab in the capacity of Consultant/Mentor for their Adolescence and Youth Development Programs. She also is in the process of a second placement at University of Prishtina as Teaching Assistant.

Ngadhnjim Halilaj

Mr. Halilaj completed his bachelor studies in management and informatics at AAB College in 2012. During his studies, he worked as a translator at the Zëri and Lajm newspapers. After completing his bachelor studies, he began working at the Democracy for Development Institute (D4D) first as an intern and then as project manager until his departure to the United States to continue his studies.
Mr. Halilaj was influenced to pursue a master’s degree in information systems with TLP-SP by computer and network experience along with a desire to gain more knowledge in the field of information technology. Upon completion of his master’s studies, he hopes to contribute to Kosovo by establishing better IT management inside and between organzations, businesses, and institutions.

Partin Pruthi

Mr. Pruthi graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master’s in Law and finished his Bachelor degree in Law at Queen Mary University of London.
Volunteer placement status: Partin has joint efforts with another TLP Graduate Ermal Leci and together are creating a module for training’s, workshops and talks on “Choosing your carrier path”. They will be engaged with public high schools in Prishtina. Moreover, they are looking for other TLP graduates to join and spread the module in other cities as well.

Qendresa Beqiri

Ms. Beqiri graduated from two higher-education institutions in Kosovo, finishing bachelor studies in the field of Management and Informatics at the University of Prishtina in 2012 and in the field of International Sales and Marketing at the IBCM (International Business College Mitrovica) in 2014.  In merit of her hard work and devotion, Ms. Beqiri was awarded two scholarships from these institutions. In the meantime, she participated in various trainings, internships, and extra-curricular activities including one in Denmark and a position within the financial sector at ProCredit Bank. She hopes her MBA studies will enable her to further advance her skills, knowledge and competences for the labor market in Kosovo.

Qendrim Sopjani

Mr. Sopjani graduated from Babson College with a Master of Business Administration.
Volunteer placement status: Qendrim has started his professional volunteer engagement in the capacity of a Consultant for a startup called Zombiesoup, where we will share his knowledge gained from his MA to help building capacities for this company.

Rea Kryeziu

Ms. Kryeziu graduated from the University of Missouri School of Law with a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Dispute Resolution.
Volunteer placement status: Rea contributed part of her professional volunteer hours to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, engaged in the capacity of Consultant to the Minister’s Cabinet; and is currently contributing the remainder of her hours to the Ministry of Justice, Department of Legal Affairs.

Rina Vuciterna

Ms. Vuçitërna completed her Bachelor’s Degree at the American University in Kosovo, majoring in Public Policy and Management. She is a co-founder of her family agribusiness and recently worked in the marketing sector. Being an active part of agricultural activities, she has developed an interest in pursuing Agricultural Economics studies. Ms. Vuçitërna intends to expand her family business, provide advisory programs to agribusinesses, bring new crops to Kosovo’s market and enhance women’s participation as entrepreneurs in agribusiness.

Rine Dinarama

Ms. Dinarama earned her Bachelor of Architecture Degree at the University of Prishtina in 2014. She has worked as an Architect at Postarch Studio and as a freelance architect on the side. One of the most significant challenges she faced was designing a chain of 50 supermarkets for one of the leading supermarkets in Kosovo. She was also involved as a volunteer for Unavision, an organization that is planning to create a one-of-a-kind eco-village in Prapashtice, Kosovo. During her side-occupation as a freelance architect, she designed the interior of a house in the Marigona Residence and a duplex apartment in the Arberia neighborhood. She is applying for a Master’s Degree in Architecture, as this program complements her academic background, work experience and future career aspirations in working as an architect in Kosovo.

Rineta Hoxha

Ms. Hoxha graduated from Vanderbilt University with a Master of Arts degree in Economics.
Volunteer placement status: Rineta is placed at TLP - Immersion and Public Service Courses as a Teaching Assistant. Also she is engaged with PIKS in the capacity of Researcher.
Work status: Currently working for the Faculty of Economics, University of Prishtina as teaching assistant and is pursuing her PhD studies in Economics in the same university.

Rinor Kurteshi

Mr. Kurteshi has a Bachelor’s Degree in Management and Informatics from the University of Prishtina. To expand his realm of experience on political and social issues, he participated in the Political Academy for Progressive Youth in 2013. He has worked as an intern at the Privatization Agency of Kosovo where he gained theoretical and practical knowledge of privatization and liquidation processes. He also served as a volunteer at NGO Flaka where he focused on the participation of women in educational programs. By studying Public Administration, he aims to become a skilled and principled public service professional who will promote the public interest and, upon his return he hopes to contribute to the advancement of Kosovo’s public sector and its administration by offering targeted training to its civil servants and promoting citizen duty in co-operation and co-creation of public service innovations.

Roberta Osmani

Ms. Osmani graduated from Indiana University with a Masters Degree in Public Affairs.
Volunteer placement status: Roberta has started her volunteer services to donate her hours to Partnership for Development Kosovo (USAID Project) implemented by Chemonics. In the same time, she is in the process together with TLP graduate Dite Gashi and Isuf Zejna to create a module on the theme of Plagiarism that will be implemented as guest lectures at University of Prishtina. Roberta has volunteered as elections observer in the local mayoral elections in Drenas through the coalition of NGOs “Coalition for Electoral Integrity”.

Rudina Hasimja

Ms. Hasimja is studying Social Sciences at the University of Chicago.
Volunteer placement status: Rudina has started to give back her volunteer hours to TLPCC by writing articles on theme of social science.

Sahit Bajraktari

Mr. Bajraktari graduated from the American University Washington Collge of Law with a Master’s in Law. Mr. Bajraktari completed his Bachelor of Law at the University of Prishtina.

Salih Veseli

Mr. Veseli graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a Master of Science in Finance. He completed his undergraduate studies in Banking, Finance and Accounting at the University of Prishtina in 2014.
Volunteer placement status: Salih will start contributing for RIT Kosovo. He will be engaged in the Institutional Research Assistant position. He will be charged with assisting new fundraising efforts of the institution and help to design and implement comprehensive strategies to identify, cultivate, and steward high- and medium- high capacity individuals, build engagement of these individuals, and create gift opportunities based on campus priorities.

Shejlla Avdiq

Ms. Avdiq completed her Bachelor Degree in General Psychology and has been engaged in the civil society sector since 2005. Since 2014, she worked as a Project Coordinator in the Dora Dorës NGO for the Economic Empowerment of Women in Rural Areas and Returnees project. She is interested in continuing her master studies in the field of Educational Psychology.
After the completion of her studies, Ms. Avdiq intends to continue her work in the civil society sector and to teach in the university where she finished her bachelor studies. She also wants to work as a school psychologist. Her main aspirations are to champion reform in education, especially in primary schools, and to contribute in the field of scientific research by undertaking research in the field of educational psychology with the aim of enriching the literature of scientific articles in the Albanian language. She also plans to create the Psychologists Association of Prizren.

Shkelqim Gerxhaliu

Mr. Gerxhaliu graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a Master of Science in Information Sciences and Technologies.
Volunteer placement status: Shkelqim is placed at World Learning in the capacity of Consultant and Subcommittee Member for the Advisory Committee to identify, quantify and prioritize ICT needs of UP and other public universities and develop funding recommendations. He has also started his second placement with American Corner. Shkelqim will donate his hours and provide volunteer services in the capacity of Lecturer and he will design and teach the course on Basics of Programming with Python.

Shqiponje Bislimi

Ms. Bislimi graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a Master of Business Administration.
Volunteer placement status: Shqiponje is placed at NGO Germin and she will donate 150 hours helping Germin develop templates, financial narrative report and other required financial documents for the organization; analyze business climate in Kosovo (working on data files from 2008-2016); keep the payments and agreements files in compliance with requirements from the project manager; support the organization with data analysis. In the same time, she is in the process of getting engaged with University of Prishtina.

Stevan Vukadinovic

Mr. Vukadinović received his Bachelor Degree from the International Business College of Mitrovica in 2014 and has worked at a local NGO where he successfully implemented several projects related to the rule of law and implementation of Parliamentary elections in North Kosovo.
He most recently worked as a Project Manager at NGO Advocacy Center for Democratic Culture in Mitrovica. He has experience working for local NGO’s as well as a public sector institution (UNMIK Mitrovica). His goal is to obtain an MBA in the field of Marketing Management, Business Leadership, and Strategic Management.
He believes that educated professionals are the crucial factor required to contribute towards the development of Kosovo’s economy, and his long term goal is to become an entrepreneur with a business of his own, enabling him to provide employment for young people in the region and contribute towards the wellbeing of his community.

Taulant Ymeri

Mr. Ymeri graduated from South East European University in the field of Computer Science and then worked for a Swiss company where he had the opportunity to learn SAP and ABAP development. He has developed and maintained programs for human resources, finances, warehouse management and many other programs, as well as developing Android applications which communicate with SAP. Having showed commitment to his work and company, he was sent to the headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland for further training in SAP and ERP concept development of SAP programs/software using ABAP, mobile programming, and project leadership improvement trainings. His graduate studies will focus on Software Engineering, and upon his return to Kosovo, Ymeri plans to develop a project on implementing new technology in Kosovo’s public transport. He hopes to pass on his knowledge in the field while educating his country’s youth.

Tefik Agushi

tefikagushi@gmail.com
Master of Arts in Global and International Studies at the University of Kansas (KU)
Mr. Agushi graduated on May 15, 2016, completing the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences degree requirements and defending the thesis “The Great Powers’ Recognition: Crucial for Kosovo and Iraqi Kurdistan Secession.”
Previously, he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Arts and Sciences: Management, Economics, and Public Policy from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT).
His professional experience includes positions as a Human Resources Manager at Meridian Express, and a journalist for Radio Television of Kosovo (RTK). Furthermore, as a part of the American University in Kosovo (AUK) Co-op program, Mr. Agushi served as a Public Relations Assistant at the university’s Vice President’s Office.
Some of his early extracurricular activities included participation in the international conflict resolution program, Seeds of Peace, in the United States, as well as membership in a committee of the Kosovo Open Society Fund (KFOS).
Mr. Agushi enrolled a diverse interdisciplinary program including topical and regional courses from a variety of studies: Global & International Studies, Political Science, European Studies, Russian and East European Studies, and Middle East Studies.
The KU Global and International Studies program equipped him with advanced research and analytical skills, and knowledge of global and international issues based on theoretical, comparative, and contemporary perspectives

Tringa Gashi

Ms. Gashi graduated in Public Administration at the International Business College Mitrovica in 2014 where she was a recipient of the Kosovo Undergrad Exchange Program IREX Scholarship on which she studied for one academic year at Juniata College in the U.S. She has worked as an Administrative Assistant at the American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo and JC Blair Memorial Hospital in the department of Marketing and Public Relations. Furthermore, her work experience includes two internships. She plans to work in the public sector (state institutions) or in NGOs that aim to improve or innovate the administrative system in Kosovo upon completion of her degree.

Uran Ismaili

Mr. Ismaili graduated from the Harvard Kennedy School with a Master of Public Administration. He holds a Bachelor Degree in Psychology from Graceland University, IA, USA. While at Graceland, he participated in efforts to promote religious and racial tolerance, including the International Student Club and Black Student Club.
Work status: Currently, he is working for the Government of the Republic of Kosovo.

Valmir Ismaili

Mr. Ismaili graduated from the Illinois Institute of Technology with a Master of Public Administration.
Volunteer placement status: Valmir will provide volunteer services to Youth Center Skenderaj in the capacity of a trainer, conducting different range of trainings on Soft Skills, including CV writing, Interview behavior and team building. In the same time, he is engaged at POLIS NGO in the capacity of a
consultant/trainer for the NGO.

Valon Osmani

Mr. Osmani graduated from the University of Arizona with a Master in Development Practice.
Volunteer placement status: In the Process.
Work status: Currently working at the Ministry of Finance.

Vatra Pylli

Ms. Pylla graduated from the University of Prishtina in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Bank, Finance and Accounting. During her studies, she was awarded with a university scholarship for her outstanding achievements and high GPA.  She worked in the Bank for Business in Prishtina as a Reporting Officer for Assets and Liabilities. After completion of her studies and return to Kosovo, she hopes to meet her long-term objectives of becoming part of government institutions dealing with finance and decision making.

Venera Fusha

Venera Fusha graduated from Colorado State University on Global Social and Sustainable Enterprise MBA as a TLP scholar. Venera has 5 years of work experience in the Business and Entrepreneurship field. She started her career as a Project Assistant on the “Young Entrepreneurs Program” implemented by the USAID in Kosovo. She was responsible for the implementation of 33 entrepreneurship trainings involving 750 young entrepreneurs in all regions of Kosovo.
After the project ended, she continued to support the “Kosovo Association of Young Entrepreneur”, as the Manager of the NGO. She managed to attract 350 continuous members in the NGO and create a cooperative network among the NGO, the members and other national and international institutions in Kosovo. During her GSSE MBA program, she implemented a market research for the partner organization Vartega Carbon Fiber Recycling LLC. Additionally, she and her team developed a business Plan on Plastic waste recycling into paving tiles targeted towards the Indonesian markets. Her interests now consist on developing the social entrepreneurship field in Kosovo and try to attract international and national financial support towards new start-ups created from young people in Kosovo.

Verka Jovanovic

Ms. Jovanović graduated from the Faculty of Philology in North Mitrovica and works at the European Centre for Minority Issues (ECMI Kosovo) on various issues regarding Kosovo communities. Her primary position is as a field researcher for the North within the project ‘Improving Minority Communities’ Access to Higher Education in Serbian Language and Public Employment through the Promotion of Equivalence and Accreditation for the University of Mitrovica’.
She is also employed at the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI Kosovo) as a Regional Project Coordinator. Previously, she worked as a Legal and Human Rights Analyst Assistant, Media Monitor and Interpreter for the European Union Election Observation Mission in Kosovo.
She is actively engaged with volunteering and fostering intercultural cooperation and multiethnic coexistence, as well as empowering vulnerable groups with a special regard to youth and women, through her volunteer work in several NGOs. Furthermore, she is a co-founder and member of the Youth Council of the American Embassy in Kosovo, aimed at promoting equality and youth activism.

Vjosa Kika

Ms. Kika graduated from The Ohio State University with a Master’s in Laws. She completed her Bachelor Degree studies in law at The University of Prishtina in 2013. She also attended a semester of BA studies at Karl-Franzens University of Graz in Austria. Ms. Kika represented The University of Prishtina in the Willem Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot competition in 2014 and The Ohio State University in the Sixth LL.M. International Commercial Arbitration Moot Competition in 2016 in Washington DC. Ms. Kika served as the Vice President of the LLM school organization and was chosen as the her class speaker of 2016.
Volunteer placement status: Vjosa will be donating her first volunteer hours at Riinvest College during the spring semester in the capacity of Teaching Assistant in the Business Law and Business Ethics classes.

Vjosa Pllana

Ms. Pllana graduated from the American University with a Master’s in Law. She finished her bachelor’s degree from the Faculty of Law at the University of Prishtina in 2014 where she was a representative of the University at three academic worldwide competitions; Williem C Vis Moot Commercial Arbitration Competition, ICC International Mediation Competition and DCFR Warsaw International Commercial Arbitration Competition.
Volunteer placement status: Vjosa is contributing her professional volunteer hours at the Permanent Tribunal of Arbitration at Kosovo Chamber of Commerce, engaged in capacity of Consultant to the Secretary General of the Tribunal.

Vladan Jacimovic

Mr. Jacimovic graduated from Indiana University with a Master of Science in Instructional Systems Technology.
Volunteer placement status: Vladan will be engaged at the Kosovo Education Center – KEC in the capacity of Mentoring and Training in the same time helping with outreach in the community. He is also interested for his second placement at the UNIVERSUM college as Teaching Assistant. Moreover, he is in the process of signing the Memorandum Of Understanding for the volunteer advocacy group that he is engaged with.
Work status: Currently he is working at NGO Democracy Plus.

Ylli Sadikaj

Mr. Sadikaj graduated from the North Dakota State University with a Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Volunteer placement status: Ylli is placed at World Learning in the capacity of Consultant and Subcommittee Member for the Advisory Committee to identify, quantify and prioritize ICT needs of UP and other public universities and develop funding recommendations.

Zana Idrizi

Ms. Idrizi completed her studies in Economics and Public Policy with a minor in Legal Studies at the American University in Kosovo, and recently worked as a Research Assistant at the Institute for Development Policy (INDEP). She has previously completed internships at the Institute for Advanced Studies GAP and Public International Law and Policy Group and worked as a Program Associate at IPKO Foundation. She represented AUK in the Harvard National Model United Nations in 2012, in World Model United Nations in 2013 and 2014. She was one of the fellows and scholarship holders of the Alpbach European Forum conference funded by the EU in Austria on leadership development. Ms. Idrizi is also one of the founders of Girls Coding Kosova, an organization that works toward the empowerment of young girls in the world of information technology. Upon her return to Kosovo, she will seek to work with the Kosovo Security Council (KSC) or intelligence agencies which cooperate with the government in order to achieve both national and international security. She hopes to contribute to policy making on security.

Zana Shabani

Ms. Shabani is studying Public Health due to interests in contributing to the improvement of healthcare in Kosovo. She completed her Masters of Pharmacy at the University of Prishtina, and her research, which was published in the book of abstracts in the symposium of Pharmacognosy, is scheduled to appear in a Polish scientific journal. Upon graduation, she worked as a community pharmacist. Upon completion of her master studies, she hopes to implement policies aimed at providing the population with direct access to improved healthcare services. She is interested in changing healthcare attitudes within the younger generations by integrating educational programs and campaigns that elevate a sense of personal responsibility for well-being. She wants to return to Kosovo and promote changes from within the healthcare system as well as the community.

Ardijan Seferi

Mr. Seferi completed his undergraduate studies in Computer Science and Engineering at the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Prishtina in 2014. Recently, he worked as a Software Security Analyst for a German company in Ferizaj. Besides having a full time job there, he is also part of the LIMAK Services Institute.
He believes that this program will provide him with the in-depth knowledge and the advanced training he needs to develop the necessary skills and expertise in the field. His research interests lie in application of sound principles to the synthesis and analyses of computer systems.
He is also interested in practicing innovative thinking and believes that encouraging scientific and technological developments is key to making Kosovo a capable competitor in the international scene. Another of his goals is to help foster a teamwork culture, thus allowing Kosovo institutions to be market trend savvy and part of modern world processes.

Adriana Sejfija

Ms. Adriana Sejfia graduated on May 2015 from RIT/AUK in IT and Economics. During her studies, Ms. Sejfia was an active member of MUN Club and VIS Moot Club. She has worked as web editor for the AUK Media Center and as a researcher for AUK. Currently she works as a researcher in GAP Institute. Ms. Sejfia co-founded Girls Coding Kosova, an initiative that attempts to eradicate gender discrimination in IT while offering trainings for girls in this field to improve skills needed in the market. Ms. Sejfia’s thesis focused on Health Information Systems suitable for Kosovo. Her thesis directed her focus towards the need Kosovo has for implemented information systems to improve its position in a competitive environment. While in U.S., she aspires to gain the know-how behind development and tailoring of large information systems. Based on the success GCK (Girls Coding Kosova) has had so far, Ms. Sejfia plans to help in its enlargement both in terms of members and scope upon her return.

Alban Krasniqi

Mr. Alban Krasniqi has earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Law from the University of Prishtina, where he has also finished his Master’s in Administrative and Constitutional Law. During his studies he worked as a human rights teacher for children in a primary school in his hometown in the central part of Kosovo. After he enrolled in master studies he engaged at College “Pjetër Budi” working as a full time Secretary of College and part time as Assistant Professor in law subjects. Currently he works as a lawyer at a human rights NGO (KRCT). He will use the knowledge and experience taken from his work as a human rights lawyer with education and civil society to help his community with his professional, contemporary and updated knowledge to bring positive change in his country.

Anyla Beqa

Ms. Anyla Beqa completed her master degree in International Economics and Finance at Johns Hopkins University. While living in Washington D.C. she also worked for the World Bank Group, IBRD, in the Energy and Extractives department. She has been working on the energy sector for a while, recently as a project coordinator of the “South East Europe Sustainable Energy Policy” EU funded project as well. Beside her contribution on managing the project, as an energy specialist, she continuously focused on energy modeling and data analysis & projections for energy sector in Kosovo. Anyla finished her undergraduate studies at RIT Kosovo in 2015, in Economics Statistics and Public Policy. As a result of her study commitment, she was awarded with highest honors from RIT, and as an honor society student of AUK. Anyla started volunteering from an early age, recently serving as the president of the Youth Council of the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo. Upon her return, she wishes to give back her subsequent knowledge and professional preparation to Kosovo institutions.

Arben Fejza

Mr. Arben Fejza completed his Bachelor studies in English Language - Translation and Interpretation at the AAB College in 2013. Since 2011, he has been engaged in working with the LGBT community and advocating for the rights of the community. Thus, a founder of the non-governmental organizations such as Libertas and CEL and currently working as Project Coordinator at the CSGD, has awarded Mr. Fejza with the title Human Rights Defender at the 7th Dublin Platform on Human Rights at Risk. The work in supporting the LGBT community in Kosovo in promoting and protecting LGBT rights has been the mission that Mr. Fejza has put forward to advocate and lobby for those rights. Based on his academic achievements and upon return to Kosovo, he plans work with NGOs and local Institutions which tackle issues of human rights and gender identity.

Arber Fetahu

Mr. Arber Fetahu completed his bachelor studies at the University of Prishtina in Political Science. During his studies he has shown great success, with a high GPA and was awarded with a scholarship from the university for two years in a row. Besides his studies Arber did an internship at the very well-known Think-Tank Institute, INDEP (Institute for Development Policy) and also worked as a field researcher at the Kosovar Center for Security Studies (KCSS). In the past year, he has been working at Klan Kosova TV station as a journalist covering the field of politics. Mr. Fetahu wishes to continue his master studies in International Relations and Diplomacy, and aspires to gain knowledge and skills to achieve his future goals on improving Kosovo’s educational system, bring the expertise to institutions in the field of Diplomacy and improve the position of Kosovo in international community.

Blend Hyseni

Mr. Blend Hyseni holds a Bachelor’s Degree in economics, statistics and public policy from the American University in Kosovo. Before graduation, he worked as a research assistant at the Center for Energy and Natural Resources, as well as researcher in a GIZ-funded project, providing support through sectorial analysis to Kosovo’s Budget and Finance Committee during budget deliberation. He was also a president of the Economists’ Club at the American University in Kosovo where he organized economic forums, conferences, and lectures. After graduation, Blend joined one of the most influential think-tanks in Kosovo - GAP Institute, where he continues to work as a researcher in economic and energy policies. While working closely with policy-makers, Blend realized that Kosovo’s public policies are largely based on governing parties’ perception rather than professional studies. Therefore, he wishes to advance his professional skills in applied economics in the United States and return to Kosovo to improve decision-making in economics and energy policies.

Blerina Halili

Ms. Blerina Halili studied Management and Public Policy at the American University in Kosovo. She was one of the selected students chosen to represent her university at the Clinton Foundation Summer Entrepreneurship Program in Northern Ireland. For the past five years, she has been working at the RIT Center for Energy and Natural Resources (CENR) where she started out as a Research Assistant and was promoted to Senior Research Associate/Project Manager. She has been actively involved in managing projects related to environment and energy efficiency for the United Nations and Norwegian Institute of Nature Research among others. Besides this, she is also the Career Advisor/Project Manager for CodersTrust in the pilot project “Women in Online Work” sponsored by the World Bank. This project seeks to provide online employment opportunities for women in Kosovo. Upon her return to Kosovo, Ms. Halili believes that she can use the obtained knowledge and skill set during her studies to bring and develop projects that will benefit the community, and also establish her own eco-friendly business in the country.

Blerta Graicevci

Ms. Blerta Greicevci received her Bachelor’s Degree in economics, statistics and management from the American University in Kosovo. During her academic studies, Blerta has built her career in a variety of roles and institutions. Her longest work experience remains within Project Management and Finance Departments. Blerta has worked for IPKO, KOSTT, QNR, the Municipality of Kastriot, Public International Law and Policy Group (PILPG) and is currently working for the NATO/KFOR Film City. Additionally, she has also served as a Senator at the American University in Kosovo. Blerta is interested in pursuing a degree in Public Administration, with a specialization in Public and Nonprofit Management, because she believes it will give her the necessary skillset to enact social change. She is passionate about gaining a comprehensive view of formulating, implementing and evaluating public policies, as well as leading and managing non-profit organizations that aim at bettering the lives of citizens in Kosovo, be it in the area of rule of law, education or healthcare systems and programs.

Denat Hoxha

Mr. Denat Hoxha completed his undergraduate studies in Computer Engineering at the University of Prishtina. He has been working as a software developer at Rrota since 2011, where he has also taken the roles of team lead and software architect, fulfilling his lifelong aspiration of building applications and tools for the local and global communities. Upon completion of his studies, he hopes to use his newly gained knowledge to make positive contributions to his country’s young software development community, by engaging them in local competitive programming activities. He believes that active youth engagement, in the process of building software and solving problems, is key in ensuring a bright future of Kosovo in the field of IT.

Dina Vllasaliu

Ms. Dina Vllasaliu graduated from the American Education in Kosovo in 2015 with a degree on Economics &Statistics and Management. Throughout her academic experience, apart from being listed in the Deans’ List and AUK Honor’s Society for high GPA, Ms. Dina Vllasaliu has also been involved in AUK extracurricular activities involving the Charity Club and the Economists’ Club. Having worked previously on IPKO Sales Shop, the Management Development Associates, and at AUK, Vllasaliu’s job experience in Kosovo Civil Society Consortium for Sustainable Development (KOSID) and her thesis work stirred her interest for Environmental Economics, the exact program for which she has now been awarded the TLP scholarship. The Masters’ Program on Environmental Economics Ms. Vllasaliu hopes will broaden her horizon on the field as well as provide her with a pathway to have direct communication with experts and professors in the field. Given Kosovo is still industrializing and developing, Ms. Vllasaliu hopes she will be able to influence Kosovo’s development towards sustainability.

Donika Cami

Ms. Donika Cami graduated from the American University in Kosovo in 2014 with highest honors. Except her excellent academic performance, she has shared interest outside of the class room by joining many academic and social clubs and by being part of the executive committee of the Student Government. After graduating, she has become part of the AUK Alumni Board. Ms. Cami has 5 years of experience in Auditing and Consulting projects as she was part of a local company, ACA, where she has gained tremendous experience, especially in business management and consulting. She also worked at a Youth by Youth NGO, namely PIKS, as a Finance Officer. From February 2016, she is part of the biggest Marketing Agency in Kosovo – Zero Pozitive Publicis. Based on her academic and professional experience, she seeks to obtain an MBA Degree. This will allow her to come back to Kosovo with the great potential to become a future business leader and also contribute towards improving the business community in the country.

Dritro Jakupi

Dritero Jakupi completed his bachelor studies in Economics and Public Policy at the American University in Kosovo. He graduated with high honors and at the same time managed to initiate and lead numerous extracurricular activities, such as the first A.U.K. Student Research Paper and a student conference at the American University in Bulgaria. His ambition lies in producing unique policy research and coming up with new ideas for growth. That is why in 2014 he joined the Institute for Development Policy, which supported him in publishing a research paper that explored the potentials of the service sector as a sustainable source of growth for Kosovo. He is particularly interested in the environmental degradation and development axis. Through the tools and knowledge he aspires to attain during his master studies in Environmental Policy, he intends to produce effective research in this area and also aid in modernizing Kosovo’s policymaking on environmental issues.

Endrine Rafuna

Ms. Endrinë Rafuna graduated with highest honors (Summa Cum Laude) from the American University in Kosovo with majors in Management and Economics. During her bachelor studies she was engaged in a number of extracurricular activities, including the Economists’ Club in which she was Vice President during the 2014/15 academic year. For the past year, she has been working at Management and Development Associates (MDA) as a Project Development Assistant. She has previously interned at Public International Law and Policy Group (PILPG) and ProCredit Bank, as well as worked at Geo&Land and the AUK Library. Taking into account her studies and interests, Ms. Rafuna aspires to continue her studies in Business Administration whilst focusing on Brand Management. Upon returning to Kosovo, her plans include establishing her own business within the Marketing and Branding consulting field and increasing awareness on the importance of women-led businesses in the Kosovar economy and society.

Erza Xhelili

Ms. Erza Xhelili completed her bachelor studies in Management and Informatics at University of Prishtina. Her excellent academic standing made her a beneficiary of the Highest Student Merit Scholarship for Distinctive Students with a GPA higher than 9.0. During her studies, she also worked as a Finance Intern at the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) which proved to be an enriching experience that prepared her to continue her professional experience as an Intern in the Management Development Associates (MDA), a well-known business consulting company in Kosovo. Her educational background, along with her work experience, served as a building block that motivated her to further explore her passion for economics by continuing her graduate studies in one of the strongest economies in the world, the United States. After completing her studies she plans to come back to Kosovo and commit to making a difference in her community.

Erzen Komoni

Mr. Erzen Komoni completed his undergraduate studies in Computer Science at the University of Prishtina. He has worked as a programmer at “Rrota Creative Studio” where he managed to climb up the ladders in this company up to Head of IT and lead a team of 11 people. Currently he is working as a program manager at EDUonGo.com which is a U.S. based company. He has applied for this program with a clear aim to further his studies in Software Engineering. He believes this help him gain new technical and managerial skills. His future plans are to become a successful entrepreneur by implementing his ideas and create startups

Evetar Zeqiri

Mr. Evetar Zeqiri graduated in Management and Information Systems at the Faculty of Economics at the University of Prishtina. He’s writing his dissertation in the Master of Business Administration in Finance at the City College - University of Sheffield, Thessaloniki. He is a member of national and international professional bodies such as SCAAK, ACCA, CIPFA and CMI. He is a certified Public Sector Auditor and a Certified Accountant at the Society of Certified Accountants and Auditors of Kosovo (SCAAK). SCAAK’s programs are accredited by ACCA and CIPFA –the world’s leading bodies of Accounting and Public Finances. He also holds a qualification in Risks, Governance & Internal Controls by Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountability (CIPFA) and membership for Strategic Management and Leadership at Chartered Management Institute (CMI) in United Kingdom

Fitore Fazliu

Ms. Fitore Fazliu completed her Bachelor and Master studies in Clinical and Health Psychology, at the University of Prishtina. She has been part of different organizations, including the “Arbeitskreis für Ausländische Arbeitnehmer” in Regensburg, Germany and the Career Counseling Center at the Municipality of Prishtina, where she had the chance to employ the knowledge gained from her studies in Psychology. She is distinct in her interdisciplinary approach toward Psychology and has many research and study interests. By combining clinical and educational psychology, she aims to promote and design different prevention and intervention programs that will help schools and societies tackle different behavioral and learning problems. She also intends to get involved in establishing professional Career Counseling services that could be offered by the School Psychologists and get involved in academia.

Fjolle Caka

Ms. Fjollë Caka has a Bachelor Degree in Architecture obtained at University of Prishtina, with a postgraduate semester in Spatial Planning completed at Vienna University of Technology. Since 2012, she has been involved in different projects related to urban planning and design, cultural heritage, places of memory/remembrance, and architectural events’ coordination. Her latest achievement as a young architect has been the curator nominee for Kosovo Pavilion in Venice Biennale by Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport in 2014. Currently, Ms. Caka is an MSc candidate in Architecture and also a Sociology student, both at her home university. She is working as Project Coordinator at Kosovo’s Architecture Foundation in “The Civic Right to Public Space and Social Housing” project. Interested in contributing towards a sustainable development of the built environment and a better quality of life, Ms. Caka wishes to enrich herself academically and professionally by pursuing postgraduate studies in Urban Studies and Planning.

Flamur Abdullahu

Mr. Flamur Abdullahu completed his Bachelor of Law studies at the University of Prishtina. He represented the university at the 19th and 20th Annual Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moots in Vienna and at the 8th International Mediation Competition in Paris. He has attended numerous conferences, seminars and trainings. Beside his studies, he has been engaged in internships and is currently an associate at a prestigious law firm. He aspires to specialize in business law in the U.S. and upon his return to Kosovo, he is committed to give his contribution to enhance the legal profession. He believes that the best way to help Kosovo towards sustainable development is through providing education to new generations. His goals are to become an eminent practitioner of law and to provide his legal expertise in drafting legislation related to business law.

Genc Agushi

Mr. Genc Agushi holds a degree in Computer Science awarded by City College, the International Faculty of the University of Sheffield. During his studies Mr. Agushi, developed strong analytical and critical skills and was also a member of many student organizations through which he actively contributed to the community. Due to his academic excellence and extra-curricular achievements, Genc was awarded the Sheffield Graduate Award, a prestigious award recognizing leadership abilities. Genc is currently working as a web developer at Rrota Creative Studios, where he is involved in many projects which benefit the community. Some of these projects are major projects aimed at markets in different countries in Europe. Considering today’s technologically driven society, he believes that further development of this field is utterly important for the people of Kosovo. Thus, he has decided to further continue his education in Software Engineering with the ultimate goal to return and help in advancing this engineering discipline. Furthermore, he wishes to contribute not only in the information technology scene but also in the educational sphere

Genta Agaj

Ms. Genta Agaj completed her Bachelor’s degree in the American University in Kosovo in 2015, majoring in economics, statistics and management. As a result of her high GPA, she graduated with the highest honors. During her studies, she was involved with various student-led initiatives, including multiple conferences, peer-learning activities, and other volunteering experiences. In regards to her working experience, she has been working at the Management & Development Associates (MDA) as a Project Development Assistant, where her main responsibility has been to write project proposals. Her previous experiences include internships in the Basic Education Program and ProCredit Bank. She believes that decision making in Kosovo should be reliant on the analysis of the data that institutions possess. Therefore, she plans on pursuing her master studies in Econometrics with the hope that this field will enable her to help institutions and businesses make better decisions.

Gresa Statovci

Ms. Gresa Statovci graduated in 2015 from the American University in Kosovo with majors in management, economics and statistics, and a minor in public policy. Currently, she is working in the Ministry of European Integration as an assistant to the Minister and as a part-time teaching assistant in the Economics Department in College Fama. Previously, she has been a project coordinator in Center for Advanced Studies FIT, a local NGO, where she was actively involved with the advancement of the education system of Kosovo – the main mission of this NGO. In addition, as a member of the AUK Honors Society, she dedicated her thesis solely to the school curriculum in Kosovo and the alterations it should acquire. In United States, she hopes to attain a better understanding of education policies, with a focus on developing countries. Ms. Statovci aims to use this knowledge combined with her practical experience in spearheading substantial reforms in the education system in Kosovo.

Hadis Karatashi

Mr.Hadis Karatashi completed his bachelor studies at International Business College Mitrovica. Due to his exceptional academic performance he received a scholarship from the U.S Department of the State granting him one year of academic exchange scholarship at Maryville College Tennessee. Upon completion of his exchange year Mr. Karatashi returned back to Kosovo and graduated from International Business College Mitrovica. Shortly after graduation he started working for Universum College as an executive assistant, where he managed projects delegated by the management board of the college. Mr.Karatashi believes that the public sector in Kosovo needs intensive work and intervention for the betterment of the services offered to the citizens of Kosovo. Hereby, he has chosen public administration studies in order to gain skills and knowledge through the TLP-SP program in one of the U.S academic institutions. By advancing academically and professionally he is willing to give his contribution upon his return to Kosovo.

Jete Aliu

Ms. Jete Aliu completed her bachelor studies in Applied Arts and Sciences at the American University in Kosovo with highest honors and was a member of the A.U.K. Honors Society. As a student she was awarded with Alpha Sigma Lambda Honorary Society Award based in USA and with the Community Service Award from the Dean of A.U.K. She was the co-chair of A.U.K. Charity Club, – a student-run organization whose mission is to serve the communities in Kosovo through voluntary services and awareness campaigns. Since June 2015 Ms. Aliu works as the Executive Assistant to the President of Kosovo. She believes education is the weapon through which we can change the world. Therefore, she plans to continue her studies in the field of Education. Upon her return to Kosovo she hopes to become an instrumental member in the society where her abilities are used to bring about positive change for the betterment of her community.

Kaltrina Ahmeti

Ms. Kaltrina Ahmeti has obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science at the University of Prishtina in 2015, where she was awarded with a merit scholarship for two consecutive years. During her undergraduate studies, she worked as an intern at the Kosova Democratic Institute (KDI), and as a research intern at the GAP Institute of Advanced Studies, a leading Prishtina-based think tank. After graduation, she worked as a Journalist at BIRN Kosovo, a leading regional investigative journalism media outlet, and as a Project Coordinator for the Kosovar Organization for Talent and Education – TOKA. She believes that Civil Society Organizations are indispensable to democratization and need to be universally recognized as such. According to her, Civil Societies play a necessary part in the functioning of a democratic system, because they also positively influence good governance, transparency, accountability and citizen participation in the development process.

Kaltrina Temaj

Ms. Kaltrina Temaj completed her bachelor studies in Applied Arts and Sciences at the American University in Kosovo. She worked as a business consultant for a Swiss Outsourcing company where she was able to conduct independent research on different development strategies for developing countries, which in turn increased her interest in the field of development economics. Ms. Temaj has currently been working on projects that aimed at lowering the level of unemployment in Kosovo such as “Mentoring and Coaching 200 start-up business grantees and 200 apprentices of Kosovo Youth Development Program” and projects that promoted the reintegration of repatriated citizens by offering them consultancy services to establish their own business in Kosovo. She plans to study Development Economics in the US in order to gain the necessary knowledge and expertise to contribute to the development of the country through decision making and strategic planning.

Korab Vranovci

Mr. Korab Vranovci received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Prishtina with a major in Applicative Geography in 2015. He has attended several workshops related to his field of study on weather, urban planning and demography. He has been working with several local NGOs in Ferizaj - targeting the youth of this municipality and also was a member of Local Youth Active Council, where he was a representative of youth with disability. His work and activity led to him to being selected as a representative of youth from Ferizaj at the central level. Lately he has been working in the Social Media field for an outsourcing company in Prishtina offering Search Engine Optimization services for their clients. His bachelor studies have helped him understand the value of information and technology- an area which Kosovo needs improvements on. He aims to further his academic knowledge on the subject matter and upon his return in Kosovo he plans to implement the methods obtained during his master studies and improve Information Systems in Kosovo. He hopes to do this through trainings and workshops, helping new generations of students understand the importance of Information Systems and Technology.
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Krenare Loxhaj

Ms. Krenare Loxhaj completed her bachelor studies at the University of Prishtina in Political Studies. During her studies, she paid special interest to gender studies as well as gender equality activism. She was awarded with a YES exchange scholarship therefore spending her high school senior year in Iowa, US. Within the framework of an internship at the Kosovar Center for Security Studies, and before she also did field research for the Kosovar Security Barometer and was an assistant researcher on the Report inquiring into the causes and consequences of Kosovo citizens’ involvement as foreign fighters in Syria and Iraq. After successfully finishing an internship at GIZ Kosovo, she was promoted to a project advisor for the migration project. Plans during her studies involve work and research towards her goals; reaching further education for a better home country upon her return. She plans on working in the policy making concerning equality and working on a better education for the next generations to come. Her hope is to bring back with her as much knowledge as possible.

Krenare Shala

Ms. Krenare Shala completed her bachelor studies in Marketing at the University of Prishtina. She is currently preparing her Master’s thesis in the same university, in the Marketing Department. During her studies, she won university scholarships multiple times. ProCredit Bank selected her as a scholarship awardee and later on invited her to apply for an entry-level position. For almost three years, she have been engaged in lending to private clients and front office efficiency at ProCredit Bank. In the meantime, she was selected from the management to undertake extra courses in Germany and with their proposal, she joined the Internal Audit team. Considering her educational and professional background, she would like to become part of the University of Prishtina to share the experience and practices learned in the United States with other students and colleagues. On the other hand, she would also like to be part of any project or agency promoting foreign investments and the business environment in Kosovo.

Linda Shuku

Ms. Linda Shuku graduated with Highest Honors from American University in Kosovo (AUK) in Economics and Statistics as her major area of study. During her bachelor studies her hard work and commitment reflected in her success, as she was awarded the Outstanding Undergraduate Scholar award and membership of Honors Society of her university. Ms. Shuku successfully represented AUK in many student competitions in international level. Shortly after her graduation, pursuant to many internships, Linda got employed as a Finance Assistant in Institute for Advanced Studies GAP, which prepared her for a future career in finance. As she is focused on studying International Finance, Linda believes that while Kosovo should work in strengthening its economy, maintaining relations with countries internationally is the key to catch-up with global developments. Studying abroad will help her bring new strategies to achieve this.

Lira Ramadani

Ms. Lira Ramadani completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental and Agricultural Management at the International Business College of Mitrovica. Simultaneously, she pursued her bachelor studies in English Language and Literature at the University of Prishtina, as a part-time student. Due to her immense eagerness and ambition, she was devoted to gaining knowledge and experience in the environmental field. She has successfully completed two internships, in the Kosovo Environmental Protection Agency and the United Nations Development Programme, where she was involved in organizing and coordinating different activities. Her career has provided her with incentives to improve herself and to gain further knowledge. Furthermore, she has attended an intensive professional program on Sustainability Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a field she wants to extensively study in. She believes that the Master’s program with the Transformational Leadership Scholarship will provide her with the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in environmental sustainability and make a positive change in her country

Lirika Demiri

Ms. Lirika Demiri holds a Bachelor Degree in Sociology from the University of Prishtina. Sociology delights her with its potentiality of interpreting different human experiences and preceding social change. She is interested in gender, feminist critical theory and memory. Currently she is involved in the University Program for Gender Studies and Research in University of Prishtina, an innovative space for interdisciplinary academic and gender-based research, as well as in Oral History Initiative, an initiative which aims to grasp and vocal different perspectives of narrating the history. After graduating she hopes to continue academic researching in local gender issues and women narratives.

Lule Bahtiri

Ms. Lule Bahtiri completed her studies at the American Education in Kosovo double majoring in Economics & Statistics and Management. Her high GPA and engagement in extra-curricular activities, won her the GPA Scholarship for two consecutive years and the AUK Ambassador Scholarship during the senior year. Furthermore, high academic performance earned her a place in the prestigious AUK HONORS SOCIETY. Lule has been working as Program Officer for Philanthropy and Sustainable Development at the Forum for Civic Initiatives where she became part of several projects aiming to help disadvantaged youth in developing businesses in the field of Agriculture and Ecotourism, among others. Ms. Bahtiri has chosen Development Economics as her field of study based on experience and high interest. She plans to maintain the same level of high academic performance, in order to gain necessary skills that will ensure her contribution upon return to the economy of Kosovo will be significant.

Marijana Zelenovic

Ms. Marijana Zelenovic is a graduate student of physics at the University of Pristina/Kosovska Mitrovica. She worked as a teacher after her studies in two high schools, and now she is working as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Technical sciences, University in Pristina/Kosovska Mitrovica. She is involved in higher education ever since her graduation in 2013 and feels that the education system in Kosovo is in dire need of improvement. The education system in Kosovo is still divided between north and south and these two represent two entirely different systems. It is her wish to connect the two which will result in a more coherent and better education system for all citizens in Kosovo. Therefore, she wishes to continue her studies in education methodology and processes, which, in turn, would enable her to raise the overall level of education in Kosovo.

Merdiana Leci

Ms. Merdiana Leci graduated from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University with a Master in Public Administration specializing in International Development, and a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Civil Society Organizations. She has worked for different consulting and research projects, including projects for the World Bank, CRIF in Bologna, the Global FoodBanking Network in the U.S. and evroenergie in Pristina. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Management from the University of Bologna in Italy and the University of Pristina in Kosovo. She hopes to work with development organizations and institutions where she can apply her knowledge and drive positive change.

Metihe Kastrati

Ms. Metihe Kastrati graduated in 2007 from the University of Business and Technology (UBT) in Pristina. Her field of study was Business Administration while majoring in Marketing. During her professional career, she built a motivated marketing and sales team at Valvolub Company. Currently, she is working in Vala, Post and Telecommunication of Kosovo (PTK). She has held various positions in this company. She is planning to continue postgraduate studies in the business field with a specialization in Business Analytics. Upon completion of her MA studies, she aspires to add value to communities especially women and people with special needs.

Milica Jakovljevic

Ms. Milica Jakovljevic obtained a Bachelor’s Degree at the International Business College in Mitrovica. Alongside volunteering experience, Ms. Jakovljevic has worked for several international and local organisations. Currently, she is employed as a Project Manager at the Advocacy Center for Democratic Culture working on improving advocacy skills for local activists. Prior to this, Ms. Jakovljevic was employed as a Government Liaison Officer with Mercy Corps Kosovo. She is interested in gaining new knowledge and skills through her studies in the US to enable her to make a positive impact on her community upon her return.

Milos Milovanovic

Mr. Milos Milovanović completed his studies in economics at EDUCONS University in Novi Sad in 2011. In the past, he has worked with international organizations, such as the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, International Organization for Migrations (IOM), and other Civil Society Organizations, in the field of socio-economic development and human rights. Mr. Milovanović is sure that the Master’s Degree in the field of NGO and Nonprofit management will perfectly complement his educational and professional expertise. After his Master’s program, Mr. Milovanović plans to reconfirm his role as a community leader, by helping to increase the participation of the Kosovo Serb community in policy and decision-making processes. His academic background, along with his vast practical experience, will enable him to directly contribute to the socio-economic development, and improve position of communities and marginalized groups in Kosovo.

Mirishahe Syla

Ms. Mirishahe Syla completed her Political Science studies at the University of Prishtina. During her studies as a result of her high GPA, she was twice awarded with a scholarship from the University of Prishtina. Simultaneously with her studies she worked in different projects at various NGOs, like the UNICEF Innovations Lab Kosovo. She is a board member at the Red Cross of Kosovo, after many years of her volunteer work there. She worked for Foundation Kosovo Luxembourg for six months till her current job now as a researcher at POLIS organization. She traveled abroad for youth projects, and this enabled her to see things from a different point of view. Her keen interest is Gender Studies and she is determined to work on this after she is back in her country. Her studies in the US will help her give more contribution upon her return.

Njomeza Demolli

Ms. Njomeza Demolli completed her Management and Informatics studies at the University of Prishtina. During her studies as a result of her high GPA, she accepted a scholarship from the University of Prishtina. During the time of her studies she started interning for ProCredit Bank - one of the most well-known banks in Kosovo and for FINCA (a microfinance firm that works primarily in developing countries). After finishing her studies she started working for Arizona Partners, where she is involved in providing accounting services to clients in the United States. Following her professional development in these areas, she enrolled at the Society of Certified Accountants and Auditors of Kosovo (SCAAK). Her professional objective is to improve her knowledge in finance, especially regarding taxation and investments, as she sees investments as a crucial issue for Kosovo’s development.

Qendresa Kukaj

Ms. Qendresa Kukaj is a master’s student of Business Administration at “Haxhi Zeka” University. In July 2014 she graduated in the same major at the same university. During the last student elections she was elected as a member of the Student Parliament. She works as a sales agent for TianDe. Previously she completed two internships in the public sector. She intends to continue her master studies in international economics from where she hopes to be trained in international finance, international trade, and political economy. Upon her return to Kosovo she hopes to develop a career in politics and in scientific research and teaching.

Rina Fetahaj

Ms. Rina Fetahaj completed her Bachelor studies in Marketing and Psychology at the London Metropolitan University. Upon finishing her studies, Rina returned to her home country and started working for one of the leading companies that outsource advanced telecommunication services globally. With 5 years of experience as a project manager, along with the ever growing number of young companies established in Kosovo, Rina started working for HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, respectfully the Enhancing Youth Employment (EYE) project. The aim of the project is to improve the skills of the youth in order to smoothly transition from academia into the labor market and lower the alarming high unemployment rates. This project corresponds greatly with Rina’s interest in linking societal issues with practical solutions and her interest to obtain thorough knowledge in Social Entrepreneurship, thus ultimately creating a favorable environment for Kosovo to scale up such endeavors.

Rina Kika

Ms. Rina Kika completed her undergraduate studies at the Faculty of Law, University of Pristina. During her studies she was awarded a scholarship for the Academic Exchange Program Join EU-SEE and studied for one year at the University of Turku and Abo Akademi in Finland. She continued her post-graduate studies at the University of Zurich in Switzerland and obtained her LL.M. degree in International Business Law. She has been working in different projects of civil society, and has seen the practical side of diverse fields of law: from law enforcement, civil and commercial law to criminal law and human rights. She wants to combine her experience in Switzerland and Finland with her potential future studies, and work on improving the human rights situation in Kosovo.

Rinor Kastrati

Mr. Rinor Kastrati completed his undergraduate studies at the American University in Kosovo, where he studied economics and management. Early on, he exhibited great potential for academic excellence, but this seemed not to fulfill his ambitions and, as a result, he dedicated a great deal of his time to furthering the social causes he believes in. He has been an active member of Charity and Economists’ Club, a senator, and a President of Student Government. Rinor has worked in the Central Bank of Kosovo, in a GIZ project, and in Monten, his family business, where he is currently employed. From his graduate studies in the United States, he expects to acquire a solid management background, to gain an understanding of foreign business practices, and to build a network of future business leaders. He ultimately wants to come back and create value in Kosovo through his entrepreneurial undertakings.

Rreze Hoxha

Ms. Hoxha graduated from the Ohio State University with a Master’s in Law.
She finished her bachelor’s degree in law at the University of Pristina, after which she started working as an associate at one of the leading law firms in Kosovo. Mrs. Hoxha participated in different conferences and competitions while at university, including the world’s largest Moot Court Competition, Philip C. Jessup, and in international conferences, like the Harvard National Model United Nations, and the Istanbul University Model United Nations, where she was awarded with the “Best Delegate of her Committee” award. Now that she is back in Kosovo, she is fully commited to improving this international business law in Kosovo.

Rrona Randobrava

Ms. Rrona Randobrava completed her Bachelor studies at the American University in Kosovo, where she was awarded the RIT Outstanding Scholar Award by the end of her studies. In 2011, she joined the Prishtina International Airport upon its concession period. Her experience at the airport has not only contributed to her knowledge of the aviation industry, but also exposed her to the processes which require tremendous amount of coordination, teamwork, and communication by different institutions, private and public, in order to ensure the impeccable functioning of a powerful component for the sustainable development of her country’s economy and, more importantly, of a boarder point to her country. Being part of the generation that will be entrusted with the mission of promoting sustained economic growth which requires a vast understanding of business as well as social, political, and international matters, Ms. Randobrava hopes to contribute to the development of her country’s aviation industry by putting finance in her strategic objective.

Sait Ibisi

Mr. Sait lbisi was awarded a Bachelor’s Degree in English Language and Literature from Fatih University in Istanbul, Turkey. As a result of his high enthusiasm and GPA, he also participated in Erasmus Student Exchange Program and studied one semester at Palacky University in Olomouc, Czech Republic. He has been employed by Zurich University as translator from Gorani and Macedonian into English. Determined to preserving his Gorani language and culture, he plans to study Education and creative writing in the United States and believes that the English-speaking environment, as well as good-quality education will ease his endeavors into writing the first ever Gorani-English dictionary. By literary means, he hope to introduce Gorani and Kosovo multiethnic culture to the world and aspires to become an academic and improve the quality of education in Kosovo. Through his experience with foreign cultures, Western and Eastern, he plans to strengthen Kosovo on the international field of literature and linguistics.

Shpat Ferizi

Mr. Shpat Ferizi holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and Information Systems from the American University in Bulgaria. Upon his graduation, he went back to Kosovo to found Peshkuiarte.com (PIA), now a well-established classified ads web solution in the market. He serves as the CEO, Product Manager and Head Developer at PIA and has successfully completed several distinct major projects within the company aimed at better fulfilling the needs of PIA’s audience. Based on his experience and the current era of data driven decision making, he wishes to pursue a Master Degree in Business Intelligence to further broaden his knowledge on data analysis that leads to better and more precise business decision making. After coming back to Kosovo, he hopes that through this program, he will be able to transform mere data into meaningful information and broaden his company’s products and services to better serve the Kosovo people.

Sovran Berisha

Mr. Sovran Berisha graduated from the American University in Kosovo in May 2015, with a major in Management and Economics & Statistics and a minor in International Relations. As a student at AUK, he was very committed to his courses and managed to gain a solid background on the respective courses. He had the chance to enrich his work experience through the Work and Travel program and into local companies in Kosovo. His second internship from AUK is also his current workplace. While pursuing his Master’s Degree in the US, he plans to pay attention to the good practices and skills of the US and bring them back to his country. His most important future goal is to help his community. Consequently, he chose to pursue studies in Public Administration because this is one of the best ways to achieve such a goal and to contribute to a brighter future of his country.

Valon Beqaj

Mr. Valon Beqaj graduated in management, economics and statistics at the American University in Kosovo. He has shown great interest in management and economics during his studies and as a result got elected as the President of The Economists’ Club at the American University in Kosovo. He has been working as a quality coordinator at Cambridge Gymnasium, where he and his team managed to increase the performance of students and teachers to a significant level. In the past, he has worked at Meridian Express and Bucaj, where he had the opportunity to implement various marketing techniques. Based on his professional and academic background, he is fully committed to specialize in entrepreneurship. He believes that he can create new jobs by creating new companies upon his return to Kosovo.

Vesa Pupovci

Ms. Vesa Pupovci graduated from the American College of Thessaloniki with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Computing. As a result of her outstanding academic performance during her bachelor studies, she received the Stavros S. Niarchos Award for Excellence in Computing. Her passion for technology led her to seek employment and pursue a Master’s degree in this field. She currently works as a Web Developer at Solaborate and plans to start her graduate studies in Information Technology in Fall 2016. She is particularly interested in Web Development and believes that a Master’s Degree in this field will equip her with the skills required to effectively design, develop and manage web based applications. She sees Information Technology as a significant driver for growth, innovation and competitiveness in Kosovo’s economy. Upon completion of her Master studies, she intends to return back to Kosovo and contribute to the transformation of the technology sector by transferring the knowledge and skills obtained from her studies in the United States.

Visar Xhambazi

Mr. Visar Xhambazi completed his undergraduate studies at the American University in Kosovo in management and public policy. During his undergraduate years, he was a delegate of the Model United Nations and had the chance to participate in the Harvard National Model United Nations. Currently, Mr. Xhambazi is a member of the Youth Council of the US Embassy in Kosovo which is an initiative of the US Embassy, aiming to promote an inclusive and tolerant society and strengthen the sense of active citizenship through community services and activities. Moreover, he is also associated with the Ecumenical Youth Council in Europe and the Federation of Young European Greens. Mr. Xhambazi will pursue a Master’s Degree in International Relations. His objective is to become an internationally focused policy-maker in national, regional, international organizations and non-governmental organizations. Most importantly, he wants to dedicate his academic and professional career to bring positive changes in Kosovo and improve the well-being of his fellow citizens.