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Author: WeBalkans

Stjuart Islamaj

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA, YEA of the month.

Country: Albania

Interests: ARTS AND CULTURE, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

“Hello! I’m Stjuart Islamaj, hailing from the sunny south of Albania. Armed with a bachelor’s in Communications and Journalism, I channel my passion for storytelling into my role as a Social Media Manager for the European Union’s Delegation to Albania. Beyond the office, you’ll find me crafting compelling narratives as a content creator, influencer, and freelance communication campaigns specialist.
Since my middle school days, I’ve been an ardent advocate for human rights and environmental causes, always ready to lend my voice to important issues. Off-duty, I’m all about creating sparks of joy, fun and energy in almost everything I do, bringing a touch of playfulness to engage and inspire mostly change :)”

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Maria Zharanjaku

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA.

Country: Albania

Interests: International Relations, Environment

“I’m Maria Zharanjaku, from Albania, on a mission to save the planet—one eco-friendly step at a time!

Awareness-raising activities which create a social impact, protect, empower and educate on the freedom and rights of citizens, have always been a mission of my interest.
I would consider myself as a people person, extremely communicative, adventurous, creative and empathetic. I love meeting new people and learning about their lives, their culture and their backgrounds.
One of my biggest passions is traveling and my biggest pleasure is discovering new cultures, while reminding everyone that the planet is our ultimate travel buddy—let’s not leave it stranded!”

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Enes Pućurica

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA.

Country: Montenegro

Interests: Media, arts and culture, health and sustainability

“Hey there! I’m Enes, a passionate person who believes in the power of communication to connect and inspire. Whether I’m diving into a new language or bringing people together to build vibrant communities, creativity and open-mindedness are at the core of everything I do. With a touch of analytical thinking, I believe I’m a natural leader and always ready to speak up. With a deep respect for diversity and a commitment to fighting for what’s right, I approach each day with a positive attitude and a determination to spread happiness wherever I go.
“To live is to risk, to love is to dare, and to dream is to reach for the stars.”

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Anđa Stanojković

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA.

Country: Serbia Interests: Human Rights, Arts and Culture

Final-year international law student at University of Belgrade, with a strong interest in EU and international law, human rights, international criminal law, and gender equality. Since 2021, I have been a Young European Ambassador for Serbia, actively promoting EU values, youth participation, and civic engagement. I am also involved in the Our Voice, Our Future campaign, advocating for youth empowerment and equality. My experience includes internships at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Higher Court in Belgrade and in law firms, providing practical insight into diplomatic and legal practice. Alongside this, I have engaged in academic research and conferences, particularly focusing on women as victims of international crimes, gender-based violence and combating hate speech.

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Damjan Zlatanovski

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA, YEA of the month.

Country: North Macedonia

Interests: ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, ARTS AND CULTURE

“Hi there, I’m Damjan, a Macedonian YEA and a student.

I’m currently pursuing my Telecommunication and Information Technologies studies at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technologies (FEEIT) in Skopje. Within the university community, you’ll often find me at the heart of the action, whether it’s as a member of the Faculty Student Assembly, volunteering in FSA committees, or representing students’ interests on the Teaching-Scientific Council.

As a YEA and an activist, I’ve devoted myself to causes close to my heart: environmental sustainability, arts and culture, and empowering youth voices. Together with young changemakers, I’ve played a role in shaping the National Youth Strategy 2023-2027. As a YEA I’ve had the privilege and the honor of sharing the stories of Macedonian youth’s activism as a speaker at the European Parliament during EYE 2023 in Strasbourg.

The YEA network has allowed me to expand my network and develop my skillset as a part of all sorts of events, workshops, and discussions, but more importantly, it has given me the platform to act, and do it now. Me and my fellow Macedonian YEAs have successfully engaged youth from all corners of society, raised the most stressful topics of today, and given the spotlight to young people. I believe that only united we can play our part in achieving the 11 European Youth Goals.

Recognition, such as the YEA Award for Team Player and Natural Leader at the YEA Summit 2023, is both an honor and a reminder of the responsibility I carry. Aside from the network I have joined the Global Shapers Skopje Hub, and the SUSI Student Leaders from Europe 2024 program.

Beyond academia and activism, I am a regular editorial opinion writer for Youth Association for Creative Expression “Kultura Beta”. My poetry was included in the “New Birth of the Word: an Anthology of Young Macedonian Poetry”. I also enjoy painting, for which I have a small online gallery shop. And amidst it all, I cherish life’s simple pleasures—cooking, a good cup of coffee with the closest people, spending time with my five dogs, and embarking on adventures to new horizons.

I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next!”

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Hana Kunić

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA, YEA of the month.

Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina

Interests: Human Rights, International Relations

“I hold a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy from the Faculty of Political Sciences at the University of Sarajevo. Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Law at the same university.
During my studies in International Relations and Diplomacy, I extensively explored topics such as conflict resolution, international law, and global governance, providing me with a robust understanding of the complexities surrounding human rights issues. Transitioning to the field of Law has further has additionaly further equipped me with the legal knowledge and skills necessary to advocate for justice and equality, complementing my passion for human rights.
My journey started with volunteerism during secondary school, broadening my horizons and fostering a passion for activism and youth work. Over the years, I’ve organized numerous youth events and projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina and abroad, honing my skills and gaining valuable insights into myself and my aspirations. As part of my commitment to making a tangible impact, I have actively participated in community outreach programs, legal clinics, and other initiatives aimed at addressing socio-legal challenges faced by marginalized communities. From my involvement in a local NGO to my role as National Vice President of AIESEC in Bosnia and Herzegovina, each experience has been a stepping stone towards my goal of advocating for human rights.
My dedication lies in working with and for people, fueled by my educational background and years of activism.
Looking ahead, I am eager to leverage my interdisciplinary background and practical experiences to pursue a career dedicated to promoting and protecting the fundamental rights and dignity of all individuals.”

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Ivan Durgutov

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA.

Country: North Macedonia

Interests: International Relations, Human Rights

My name is Ivan Durgutov and I am a graduate lawyer with a master’s degree in Law from the Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje. Since my secondary school days, I have been a vocal activist in the civic sector, being a member and part of different civic organisations then and now. They include the European Law Students’ Association, the Summer Work&Travel Alumni Association, the Macedonian-American Alumni Association and the European Democracy Youth Network. Right now I am holding the position of an Executive Director of the European Business Association in Skopje. One of my biggest achievements and most life-changing experiences was my participation in SUSI 2019, a leadership programme held in the USA, where I was chosen as a scholar by the US Department of State and participated as one of the eighty most promising leaders under-25 from Europe. Besides this, I have been participating in and facilitating various projects, been part of and completed short-term EVS. Some of my passions involve advocating for human rights, learning and practising diplomacy while representing my country and my peers, and travelling both nationally and internationally.

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Mila Mladenova

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA, YEA of the month.

Country: North Macedonia

Interests: Health and Sustainability, International Relations

“Mila Mladenova is a Doctor of Medicine finishing her degree at the Faculty of Medicine at the Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje. She is a founder & president of Youth Empowerment Association, a non-governmental civil society organization and an alumna of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung scholarship program.

Mila was selected as a Macedonian member of the Youth Advisory Group of the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS) and was a participant in the School of Policies of the Presidential Center for Political Education & School of Public Policy “”Mother Teresa””, successfully completing the 2023 cycle of the Council of Europe Schools of Political Studies.

Mila has profound experience organizing and actively participating in numerous national and international development programs, initiatives and projects highlighting health and well-being, environment and sustainability, youth participation & promotion of EU values.”

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Ena Porča

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA, YEA of the month.

Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina

Interests: Environment, Business and Entrepreneurship

I am a dedicated advocate for youth and environmental causes in Bosnia and Herzegovina. With a diverse background in project management, I led initiatives such as Climathon and TEDx, providing platforms for innovative ideas to thrive. I am a committed promoter of entrepreneurial spirit among youth, emphasizing the importance of green entrepreneurship and the development of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s innovation sector as pivotal for the country’s future. My dedication to fostering positive change and nurturing new ideas continues to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders in her community.

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Kristian Petro

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA.

Country: Albania

Interests: International Relations, Human Rights

I’ve spent my career focused on helping people and serving as a role model for my country, all while championing the advancement of young people. My beliefs lean towards progressiveness and inclusivity, and I envision a united Europe that includes the Western Balkans. My passions lie in human rights, integration, and democracy, which have driven my involvement with various projects and NGOs in both Albania and Austria. Recently, I’ve also had the opportunity to collaborate with international organizations. As a young European ambassador, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with peers from the Western Balkans, fostering a strong network despite my frequent travels abroad for work. My academic background includes a Master’s degree in Economic Policy in Global Markets from the Central European University in Vienna. I’m particularly drawn to issues related to regional cooperation, human rights, democracy, and the ongoing process of European integration.

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