Vjosa Osmani Sadriu
Keynote Speaker
A FEW DAYS LEFT UNTIL THE CONFERENCE
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"Diaspora Flet" Conference 2023
Connecting Diaspora
with the Homeland
GERMIN is set to host the third edition of the biggest Albanian Diaspora Conference – “Diaspora Flet” in Prishtina, Kosova, on May 18-19-20, 2023. Under the theme "How can we co-create?" we aim to explore and incite ways of co-creation for the progress of our homelands. Following two highly successful editions held in 2018 and 2020, the conference will bring together hundreds of professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders from the diaspora and the homelands to discuss, present, exhibit and exchange information, experiences and ideas. GERMIN is committed to fostering a vibrant and sustainable diaspora engagement ecosystem, and the 'Diaspora Flet' Conference is a flagship event that demonstrates our dedication to achieving this goal.
Diaspora Flet 2023 Progam: Learn more
OUR SPEAKERS
Albin Kurti
Keynote Speaker
Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz
Keynote Speaker
Liza Gashi
Keynote Speaker
Vartan Marashlyan
Keynote Speaker
Mirela Sula
Keynote Speaker
Mike Bailey
Keynote Speaker
CONFERENCE CALENDAR
AGENDA
Day 1
May 18, 2023
May 18, 2023
Day 2
May 19, 2023
May 19, 2023
Day 3
May 20, 2023
May 20, 2023
Day 1
May 18, 2023
May 18, 2023
May 18, 2023 – 17:00 – 18:00
Launching the Conference
Arrival of Participants and Registration
Venue: Klan Arena Centre
Guests will register for the conference. They will receive conference material, agenda, information, guides and directions and relevant information for the program. GERMIN staff and volunteers will help guests to check into the conference.
May 18, 2023 – 18:00 – 18:30
Opening Ceremony
Klan Arena "Majlinda Hall"
Welcoming Remarks:
Sihana Bejtullahu & Lirim KrasniqiCo-Executive Directors, GERMIN
May 18, 2023 – 18:30 – 19:00
Keynote Addresse
Klan Arena "Majlinda Hall"
Vjosa Osmani-SadriuPresident of the Republic of Kosova
Joshua Mike, USAID Economic Growth Office Director
Jörn Rohde, Ambassador of Germany to Kosova
Anila Hyka-Smørgrav, GERMIN Board Co-Chair (FR)
Avni Mustafaj, GERMIN Board Co-Chair (US)
May 18, 2023 – 19:00 – 19:30
Keynote Speaker:
Diaspora Engagement for Development
Mike Bailey – , International Diaspora Engagement & Fundraising Expert, Practical Fundraiser from Israel
18 Maj, 2023 – 19:30 – 20:15
Presentation:
OriginAL: the Albanian Birthright Program
OriginAL is a unique initiative that provides young Albanians from around the world the opportunity to experience and connect with Albanian rich culture and heritage through an immersive educational program.
The program aims to connect Albanian youth with their ancestral homeland, and to inspire a sense of pride and responsibility in their heritage.
Presenters:
- Mark Kosmo Board Director, Global Albanians Foundation (GAF), Video Message
OriginAL inaugural 2022 cohort participants will share their experiences:
- Jetnis Avdijaj, Belgium
- Xhoi Laze, Netherlands
Moderator: Naim RobelliProject Manager, GERMIN
May 18, 2023 – 20:15 – 21:30
Reception: Networking under Albanian instrumental music
Day 2
May 19, 2023
May 19, 2023
May 19, 2023 – 06:30 – 07:30
Morning Activity (Optional)
Location: Germia Park
Morning organized exercises for nature and sports lovers with Mrika Nikqin – “7 Summits”the youngest women worldwide to reach seven world summits. Departure to Germia Park at 06:00.
May 19, 2023 – 08:00 – 09:00
Morning Coffee
Location: Klan Arena "Akili" space
19 Maj, 2023 – 09:00 – 09:50
The New Diaspora Engagement Framework
Venue: Klan Arena “Majlinda Hall”
This session of the conference will focus on the government’s commitment to establishing a two-way dialogue with diaspora communities, recognizing the invaluable contributions they make to the development and progress of the Republic of Kosovo. It will include a presentation of the new Diaspora Engagement Framework, which highlights the development of programs, resources, and opportunities for co-creation, aiming to foster mutual growth and prosperity
Keynote Speaker:
- Albin KurtiPrime Minister of the Republic of Kosova
Presentation:
- Liza GashiDeputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora
May 19, 2023 – 10:00 – 18:00
Fair:
Venue: “Akil” Hall, Klan Arena
20 women-owned businesses, and 10 local and partner organizations will present their products and services to the local and diaspora audience in a fair-format throughout the Day 2 afternoon.
May 19, 2023 – 10:00- 10:50
Leveraging diasporas for development: technology, entrepreneurship and capital investment
Venue: Klan Arena “Majlinda Hall”
Diasporas have the potential to play a significant role in the economic development of their countries of origin. Through the use of technology, entrepreneurship, and capital investments, diaspora communities can contribute to the growth of their home countries and help to build a more prosperous future. In this panel discussion, we will explore how Albanian diaspora communities will explore insights and strategies on how our diaspora’s expertise and capital can impact local economies, strengthen the entrepreneurship ecosystem, and support export-led industries.
Presenters:
- Mentor Arifaj, Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade, Republic of Kosova
- Edona Bilalli, Minister of State for Entrepreneruship Protection, Republic of Albania
- Ardian Lekaj, Chair of the Albanian Diaspora Business Chamber (Netherlands)
- Yll Blakaj, Chair of the Diaspora Business Network in Austria
- Fadil Abdullahu, Director of the Union of Albanian-German Businesses (Germany)
- Pëllumb Çollaku, Expert on Foreign Direct Investment (Switzerland)
- Vjollca Çavolli, Director of Kosova’s ICT Association, STIKK (RKS)
Moderator: Lenhard Hamza, Diaspora Integrated Expert, GERMIN
May 19, 2023 – 10:50 – 11:10
Coffee Break & Snack
Location: Klan Arena "Akili" space
May 19, 2023 – 11:10 – 12:00
Integration of a gender perspective in the Diaspora debate
Venue: Klan Arena “Majlinda Hall”
Powered by GIZ Kosovo
Diaspora communities are a vital part of the global economy, contributing to economic growth and development in their countries of origin and residence. However, the role of women in diasporic communities is often overlooked, with their contributions not recognized. This panel discussion will focus on the importance of integrating a gender perspective into the diaspora debate. The panel will cover a range of topics, including the role of women in (Albanian) diaspora communities, the impact of gender inequality, and the ways in which diaspora organizations can promote gender equality and women's empowerment
Speakers:Diaspora Political Representation in Home Countries
- Introductory presentation: Melek Pulatkonak, Founder of TurkeyWin (Turkey)
- Krenare Loxhaj, Migration Governance Advisor and Country Gender focal Person for GIZ Kosovo
- Rrezarta Shatri, Diaspora Activist (Switzerland)
- Fatmir Sinani, Entrepreneur from Diaspora (Germany)
Moderator: Lavdi Zymberi, Founder of "Kosovo Girl Travels"
19 Maj, 2023 – 12:10 – 13:00
Panel Session:
Know-how and skills exchanges: Opportunities and Challenges
Venue: Klan Arena “Majlinda Hall”
Powered by: “USAID Private Sector-Led Workforce Development Activity”
The panel discussion will focus on the opportunities and challenges associated with know-how and skill exchanges from the diaspora to the home countries and vice-versa. The discussion and presentations aim to highlight the potential of diaspora communities as a source of skills, knowledge, and experience for their home countries. It also aims to address the challenges that may hinder or limit the effectiveness of diaspora-led initiatives and professional engagement at home country institutions, civil society, and the private sector, such as lack of institutional support, cultural differences, etc.
Speakers will share their experiences, insights, and best practices on how to leverage the diaspora's potential for knowledge and skill transfer. They will discuss strategies to build effective partnerships between diaspora communities and local stakeholders and ways to create a conducive environment for diaspora-led initiatives to thrive.
Presenters:
- Fatlume Halili, Ecosystem Relationships Manager, USAID Private Sector-Led Workforce Development Activity
- Ardiana Gjini, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control (UK)
- Egzon Gashi, Founder of Teach for Kosova (RKS)
- Abetare Gojani, , Executive Director, IPKO Foundation (RKS)
- Besa Maraj, Consultant in Climate and Energy (Germany)
- Lulzim Baumann, Circular Economy and Waste Management Expert for Kosovo and Albania (Germany)
Moderator: Xhelal Dërguti, GIZ Kosova Programme for Migration and Diaspora Advisor
May 19, 2023 – 13:00 – 14:00
Lunch - Buffet with Traditional Albanian Food
Klan Arena “Akil Hall”
May 19, 2023 – 14:00 – 14:50
Youth emigration and brain drain: what can we do to tackle this phenomenon?
Venue: Klan Arena “Majlinda Hall”
The phenomenon of youth emigration and brain drain has become a significant concern for many countries, as it deprives them of the talent, skills, and creativity of their young people. What are the root causes of youth emigration and brain drain, including economic, social, and political factors? What is the impact of this phenomenon on the development of countries and regions, and how it affects the prospects of young people?
The panellists will share their experiences and in-depth insights on the current trends, and effective policies and strategies to tackle youth emigration and brain drain, such as creating employment opportunities, improving education and training systems, and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation. They will also explore how governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector can work together to create a supportive environment for young people to thrive and contribute to their countries development.
Presenters:
- Ilir Gedeshi, Director of Center for Ecnomic and Social Studies (Albania)
- Ardiana Gashi, Professor at the University of Prishtina (RKS)
- Osman Osmani, Founder of ProIntegra (Switzerland)
- Marsela Ceno, Chair of Society of Albanian Doctors in Germany, GARD e.V. (Germany)
Moderator: Hilmi Gashi, GERMIN Board Member (Switzerland)
May 19, 2023 – 14:00 – 15:20
Roundtable Discussion: From Diaspora Philanthropy to Sustainable Development
Venue: Klan Arena "Nora Hall"
Powered by Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF), inanced by Sweden
Diaspora philanthropy has emerged as a critical source of development finance, with diaspora communities worldwide contributing billions of dollars to support development initiatives in their countries of origin. However, diaspora philanthropy faces several challenges in achieving sustainable impact, including aligning with development priorities, ensuring sustainability and effectiveness, and enhancing collaboration among stakeholders. This workshop will provide an opportunity for participants to explore how diaspora philanthropy can be harnessed for sustainable development.
Mike Bailey, a senior fundraising expert, will facilitate the workshop. He has worked with the Jewish Diaspora for many years, raising hundreds of millions of dollars for various causes in Israel and Jewish communities worldwide. The workshop will gather local development experts, civil society representatives, and the private sector interested in the topic. It is powered by the Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF), the leading civil society actor in Kosova, financed by Sweden.
Facilitator and presenter: Mike Bailey, The Practical Fundraiser, Israel
May 19, 2023 – 15:00 – 15:50
Panel Session:
Engaging Diaspora for the Development of Our Cities
Venue: Klan Arena “Majlinda Hall”
Powered by CARITAS Switzerland: Municipal Action for Reintegration and Diaspora (MARDI) project
The diaspora community is an invaluable resource for the development of our cities. With their expertise, knowledge, and resources, they can play a significant role in enhancing our cities' economic, social, and cultural landscape. This panel discussion will focus on how cities can engage with their diaspora communities and harness their potential for the development of our cities. We will explore the opportunities and challenges of engaging diaspora communities, and discuss best practices for creating effective strategies to involve them in the development process. How can our cities tap into their diaspora communities' skills, resources, and networks to enhance economic growth and job creation, support entrepreneurship and innovation, and promote cultural exchange and diversity?
The panellists - mayors of four cities of Kosova will present their investment project, aiming to attract diaspora investors, entrepreneurs, and partners. They will also share their experiences and insights on the practical steps they have taken to engage their diaspora communities, such as establishing effective communication channels, providing technical support, and creating a conducive environment for the diaspora investments.
Presenters:
- Bali Muharremaj, Mayor, Municipality of Suhareka
- Marigonë Lahu, Deputy Mayor, Municipality of Podujeva
- Leonora Morina-Bunjaku, Deputy Mayor, Municipality of Gjilan
- Kujtim Gashi, Deputy Mayor, Municipality of Prizren
- Bekim Brestovci, Mayor’s advisor for Diaspora Engagement, Municipality of Prishtina
- Burbuqe Leka, Director for Diaspora and Economic Development, Municipality of Kamenica
- Erhan Morina, Drejtor për Ekonomi, Zhvillim dhe Turizëm, Komuna e Rahovecit
Moderator: Luiza Sekiraqa, CARITAS Switzerland: MARDI Project Manager
May 19, 2023 – 15:50 – 16:20
Coffee Break & Snacks
Location: Klan Arena "Akili" space
May 19, 2023 – 16:20 – 17:10
Parallel Session:
Diaspora Voting Rights and Representation: what’s going on?
Venue: Klan Arena “Majlinda Hall”
Out-of-country voting has been a topic of discussion and debate for quite some time now in Kosova and Albania. While Kosova allows citizens abroad to vote via mail, Albania has yet to set up the framework to enable voting from abroad. Despite some developments in both states, the Albanian diaspora does not yet fully participate in the political processes of their home countries
For Albania and Kosova, it is important to understand and reflect on the importance that out-of-country voting can have for the democratization and development of the countries. Given the significance of the Albanian diaspora's economic, social, and cultural ties to their home countries, they must have a stake in the outcome of political decisions
Presenters:
- Anila Hyka-Smørgrav, Diaspora Coordination Council
- Adnan Rrustemi, MP, Lëvizja Vetëvendosje (LVV)
- Vlora Çitaku, Democratic Party of Kosova (PDK)
- Xhafer Tahiri, Democratic League of Kosova (LDK)
- Lavdim Krashi, MP, Socialist Party of Albania(PS)
Moderator: Lirim Krasniqi, Co-Director, GERMIN
May 19, 2023 – 17:10 – 18:00
Parallel Session:
Identity and Cultural Life among Diaspora Communities
Venue: Klan Arena “Majlinda Hall”
In an increasingly globalized, interdependent world, in which the proliferation of mass communication technology ensures we all have greater access to each other than ever before, art and cultural diplomacy is critical to promoting national interests, as well as fostering peace & stability throughout the world.
The growing number of Albanian artists with world impact has increased the opportunities to promote Albanian culture, influence other nations, and promote our countries and communities. Considering that, it is important to discuss and explore how Albanian celebrities can effectively use their fame as a means of adding credibility and attracting attention to Albanian Culture.
Presenters:
- Prezantim hyrës: Vartan Marashlyan, Repat Armenia
- Alban Ukaj, Actor (BiH)
- Vjollca Robelli, Singer/songwriter (UK)
- Ermal Vejsa, Co-founder of KÂ KÂ (Austria)
- Jehona Jahaj, Founder of “Marrja e Zezë” (Germany)
Moderator: Ali Salihu – URACult (Germany)
May 19, 2023 – 18:00-19:30
Break
May 19, 2023 – 19:30 – 20:00
Fireside Chat
Reconnecting with Homeland
Venue: Menza Ramiz Sadiku
A Fireside Chat with Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, will open the evening and provide insight into her journey from Germany to Kosova. This conversation will enable the audience to understand the journey of diaspora direct engagement in the new Government of Kosova
May 19, 2023 – 20:00 – 21:30
Diaspora Flet- Lightening Talks
Venue: Menza Ramiz Sadiku
The Albanian Diaspora is heterogeneous. Each Diaspora community living abroad has its challenges and needs. This is an Open Mic forum for diaspora members to share some of the most pressing issues their communities face in sustaining their connection to the homeland and the opportunities they see in enhancing the Diaspora’s role in policy-making, and social and social and economic development at home.
- Mirela Sula, Founder and CEO of Global Woman Club (UK)
- Petrit Çeku, Classical guitarist (Croatia)
- Bahri Cani, Gazetar (Gjermani)
- Rita Kastrati, UN Women UK Delegate
- Bujar Nushi, Entrepreneur, co-founder of Salih & Isa Nushi Foundation (Netherlands)
- Teuta Vodo, Assoc. Professor of Geopolitics and EU Law & Enlargement (France)
- Gezim Qadraku, Assistant Fund Accountant | Founder of Sport Diplomacy | Freelance Contributor (Germany)
- Ermal Sadiku – LinkPlus IT (RKS)
- Arbresha Dula, (Norway)
Day 3
May 20, 2023
May 20, 2023
May 20, 2023 – 9:30 – 10:30
Diaspora Flet at the Assembly of Kosova
Assembly of Kosova, Plenary Hall
Photo Opp: A collective picture of Members of the Assembly and Diaspora Professionals
- Opening Remarks, Glauk Konjufca, Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo
- Opening Remarks, Avni Mustafaj, Co-Chair of GERMIN Board
Opening Remarks by Heads of Parliamentary Groups:
- Mimoza Kusari-Lila, Vetevendosje Movement (VV)
- Abelard Tahiri, Democratic Party of Kosova (PDK)
- Arben Gashi, Democratic League of Kosova (LDK)
- Besnik Tahiri, Alliance for the Future of Kosova (AAK)
Remarks by Diaspora members:
- Anila Hyka-Smorgrav, GERMIN Board Co-Chair (France)
- Rosario Petta, Mayor of Piana Degli Albanesi, Representative of the Arbëresh Community (Italy)
- Hilmi Gashi, Diaspora Member (Switzerland)
- Vjollca Robelli, Singer/songwriter (UK)
- Muhamet Idrizi, Diaspora Member (Germany)
- Vat Marashi, Diaspora Member (Italy)
- Nestor Dede, Diaspora Member (Greece)
- Bora Zukali, Vatra Albanian Community Istanbul (Turkey)
May 20, 2023 – 10:40 – 11:40
Working Sessions with Designated Assembly Committees
Topic: Public Diplomacy and Institutional Approach for Empowering and Leveraging Diaspora Community Organizations; Albanian Lessons Abroad and Cultural Centers. What is being done to promote and preserve language, and identity among the diaspora communities?
Host: Committee on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora
Diaspora Group Led by:
Osman Osmani, Socio-Cultural Animator, Worked with Youth and Peer-to-Peer Exchanges (ProIntegra, Switzerland);
Mustafë Krasniqi, Deputy Chair of Diaspora Teachers’ Coordination Council in Germany
Topic: Youth Empowerment: institutional policies and initiatives that promote youth participation, education, and employment to empower the youth.
Host: Non-formal parliamentary group of Young MP’s
Diaspora Group Led by:
Anita Gjidoda, Experienced e-commerce and IT professional - Atlassian, a software company with a large emphasis on volunteering placed in the Netherlands
Muhamet Idrizi, Teacher in Hamburg, Chairmen of ODA Hamburg e.V.
May 20, 2023 – 11:45 – 13:00
Lunch at the Main Hall, hosted by the Assembly of Kosovo
May 20, 2023 – 13:30 – 15:00
Site Visit at SPEEEX
The largest Business Process Outsourcing Company in the Republic of Kosova with over 1500 employees across our 4 multi-lingual hubs.
May 20, 2023 – 15:30 – 16:30
Site Visit at The Albanian Developers Conference
Venue: Palace of Youth and Sports
May 20, 2023 – 17:00 – 18:30
Closing Ceremony and Reception hosted by the Municipality of Prishtina
Venue: Lapidariumi i Muzeut
Closing Remarks: Alban Zogaj, Deputy Mayor, Municipality of Prishtina
OTHERS FOR GERMIN
TESTIMONIALS
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"GERMIN has fast emerged as an exemplar diaspora organization. Through their creative, fresh and innovative approaches, they have created structures and systems of diaspora engagement that will be formative processes for the diaspora sector for the foreseeable future.
Every country working on diaspora needs a GERMIN as their models of work have answered one of the age-old questions of diaspora engagement by building trust through their authenticity of work. I have no doubt their expertise and models will be exported globally very soon.
I have had the pleasure of seeing GERMIN grow from pretty much a blank canvas to a leading light for its peers on diaspora work. After spending time with their incredible team, at both an executive and operational level, the future is bright for GERMIN.
The energies and expertise that flow through their team, which represents the inherent diversity required for effective impact in the networked 21st century, are a constant source of inspiration for my work. They are just a brilliant bunch led by an ethos and value driven spirit fit for our times.
They are doing an incredible job for their region and partners so we should never take them for granted. Therefore, I encourage anyone reading this to support these incredible young people to achieve their aspirations through this incredible organization."
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"Germin in Kosovo is a really good example of such an organisation who are perfectly placed to turn brain drain into brain gain and brain exchange. Made up of talented and passionate professionals who have researched the potential and identified key Kosovans overseas they have put in place the building blocks and structures to convert sentiment and goodwill into practical projects which will benefit their homeland. Germin have identified global best practice in Diaspora engagement and can become one of the leaders in this field."
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"I have been engaged ever since the early days of Germin on advisory role capacity and this journey with Germin has reawakened my love and connection with Kosova. Apart from that it has presented me with an opportunity to meet some truly inspiring changemakers that I continue working to this day."
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Partners
SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES
"Diaspora Flet" 2023 | "How Can We Co-Create"
Platinum Package |
€7,500
- Logo placement in email, social media, website
- Sponsor mansion on all publications
- Logo/video in welcome banner
- Listing in sponsor directory as "Premium Sponsor"
- Main stage sponsor
- Co-hosting a conference session
- Exhibitor booth, in first tier expo placement
- Lead retrieval
- 20 complimentary invitations to the opening ceremony
Diamond Package |
€5,000
- Logo placement in email, social media, website
- Sponsor mansion on all publications
- Listing in sponsor directory
- Featured networking session
- Medium exhibitor booth, in first tier expo placement
- Lead retrieval
- 10 complimentary invitations to the opening ceremony
Gold Package |
€2,500
- Logo placement in social media, website
- Sponsor mention on 1 publication
- Listing in sponsor directory
- Sponsor session topic
- 5 complimentary invitations to the opening ceremony
Silver Package |
€1,000
- Logo placement in social media
- Listing in sponsor directory
- Sponsor session topic
- 2 complimentary invitations to the opening ceremony
