Author: WeBalkans

Country: Kosovo

Interests: Human Rights, International Relations

I am Desantila Muriqi, a dedicated advocate for human rights with a master’s degree in “”Democracy and Human Rights in Southeast Europe,”” and a Young European Ambassador passionate about international relations. I’m driven by a strong desire to make a positive impact.

Over the past four years, I have embraced my role as a YEA, working on initiatives to encourage dialogue and tackle important community issues. My journey has been characterized by collaboration and passion as I strive to bring about change in Kosovo and beyond. I have initiated and led several projects focused on amplifying voices and effecting positive change, all achieved without financial resources. One of my significant endeavors was a Kosovo-wide tour focused on climate justice. By engaging young people from different NGOs in discussions about environmental challenges, I raised awareness and built connections with around 200 individuals from across Kosovo, creating a diverse community committed to local environmental action.

In addition to my environmental work, I have organized several impactful cultural projects. These include “”Netflix&Discuss,”” which provided a platform for discussing popular series and their social implications, while also motivating high schoolers to take on leadership roles and collaborate by co-organizing sessions for their favorite series; “”Read and Discuss,”” facilitating conversations on selected books to promote literacy and dialogue; “Music and Discuss,” where attendees immersed themselves in a two-day youth music festival held in Gjakova, engaging in singing sessions and discussions around the bonfire; “”Art and Discuss,”” a competition showcasing the talents of young artists in writing, photography, and painting, as well as promoting cultural expression and emotional wellbeing during the pandemic; and “Write and Discuss,” where individuals penned pieces related to COVID-19, followed by a hybrid event where 40 selected works were read aloud. Despite facing challenges, and being fully self-funded, these projects have acted as catalysts for fostering community engagement and connection. Each lasting approximately three months, they provided a platform for around 300 youth to sustainably unite, support one another amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and collectively learn and grow through the process.

Currently, as a consultant on Gender and Human Rights at UNFPA in Kosovo, I continue my efforts to address human rights violations and promote regional collaboration. My work is guided by a belief in the power of cooperation to create a more inclusive society. With more academic knowledge and professional experience in diplomacy and human rights, I intend to take an active role in participating in and advocating for events related to these topics, while also proactively organizing them during my second term as a Young European Ambassador. With a commitment to building connections and tackling challenges, and a deep passion for international relations, I see a future where the Western Balkans joins the EU. Through my efforts, I aim to contribute to a more united Western Balkans, where everyone’s rights are respected, and where we lead by example in areas like human rights, environmental protection, art, culture, sports, and technology.

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Country: Kosovo Interests: Music, Youth activism, Environment, Sport

My name is Blodina Mala, and although I’m from Peja, I live in Kosovo’s capital, Prishtina. I am a human-rights activist, and a feminist; I am a member of four NGOs, Sbunker, the Youth Parliament of Kosovo, Toastmaster, and Pen, as well as two social groups, ROR (Respect Our Rights) and Retorakt. I am the founder of Cat Calls of Kosovo, and co-founder of the project “Jam Femer, Sjam Pron,” meaning, “I’m a female, not an object.” I speak three languages – Albanian, English, and German. When I have some free time – which isn’t very often – I write and read. I love music, swimming, and volunteering.

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Country: Kosovo Interests: Arts and design, Film and photography, Music, Youth activism, Environment

My name is Arjana Rudari. I was born and raised in a small town in Kosovo. I was the recipient of multiple scholarships from universities within and beyond Europe. After successfully completing my high school studies, I enrolled at the University of Prishtina, in the Department of Applied Economics in Business Management. During my time at university, I participated in a number of different international conferences. I won an Erasmus+ scholarship to study for a semester at Riga Technical University, prior to which I had completed an internship at the Ministry of Environment. After graduation, I was the project coordinator and manager at an NGO. I’ve dedicated most of my time to fighting various issues that are still present within our communities such as gender inequality, racism, and youth unemployment. I’m driven by dreams and passions. My work ethic and determination will not allow for my dreams to remain unfulfilled, so I’m always in a quest for a better tomorrow, while simultaneously growing and evolving.

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