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ABOUT THE EVENT
Leading Conference of the Albanian Diaspora
The conference aims to bring together industry professionals, businesses, communities, activists and experts from around the world to reflect on the commitment of the Albanian diaspora in the last 20 years and to explore and reflect on its role in the next 20 years.
WHERE?
WHEN?
NOVEMBER 19-21, 2020


OUR SPEAKERS
SPEAKERS OF THE CONFERENCE
CONFERENCE CALENDAR
AGENDA
DAY 1 November 19 2020
ADVOCACY & DIPLOMACY
ADVOCACY & DIPLOMACY
DAY 220 NOVEMBER 2020
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT
DAY 321 NOVEMBER 2020
HUMAN CAPITAL & EDUCATION
HUMAN CAPITAL & EDUCATION



NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 15:00 - 15:30 CET
Opening Ceremony
Fireside chat
by
Atifete Jahjaga
-
Keynote Speaker
.
Valbona Zeneli
-
Speaker
The former president of Kosovo, Ms. Jahjaga is very active in advocating for the most pressing issues/causes for the society and the new state of Kosovo. She was one of the initiators of the campaigns for justice for women, victims of the 1998-99 war in Kosovo. Mrs. Jahjaga has played a very important role in promoting the state of Kosovo in the international arena, and continues to positively contribute to the image of the state. While as an industry professional, she has made an extraordinary contribution to the development of the Kosovo Police Force in becoming one of the most reliable institutions in Kosovo and the region. At the Diaspora Flet 2020 conference, she will talk more about her diplomatic role and supporter of important social causes, but also security issues, as a professional in the field.

NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 15:30 - 16:00 CET
Networking Space
Space to get to know each other, meet, create potential collaborations and also get familiar with the digital platform.


NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 16:00 - 17:00 CET
Panel Session:
Diaspora Engagement 20|20 - Strengthening the collaboration
by
Avni Mustafaj
-
Moderator
Reflection on the last 20 years of the engagement of Albanian Diaspora; What have we learned from the past, and what the future holds in the next 20 years? Have we done enough to systematically build our communities? To what extent have home institutions provided a platform to engage?

NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 17:00 - 17:30 CET
Lightning Talks
Five minute inspirational presentations by people with creative ideas and success stories related to the diaspora. After all presentations, discussion and collaboration will be stimulated - speakers will be open to questions and answers from participants.

NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 17:30 - 18:00 CET
Networking Space
Space to get to know each other, meet, create potential collaborations and also get familiar with the digital platform.


NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 18:00 - 19:00 CET
Panel Session:
Diaspora Political Representation in Home Countries
by
Sihana Bejtullahu
-
Moderator
Who represents Diaspora in Home Countries? What’s the situation with Out-of-country voting? How much political parties’ programs reflect diaspora issues? How responsive are state institutions towards diaspora? How much does Diaspora influence the politics of the home countries?

NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 19:00 - 20:00 CET
Parallel Session:
Public & Digital Diplomacy
by
Gëzim Visoka
-
Moderator
Understanding and influencing public attitudes and those who shape them, beyond the traditional diplomacy of government-to-government contact, plays an important role for countries in the current world order. Effective public diplomacy can make the crucial difference in the attraction, rejection and perception of how a country, its people and its policies can influence and alter others' attitudes and decisions. What does Public (including the use of internet resources - Digital Diplomacy) mean for Albanians in the 21st century? Where do we stand in the new digital era? Are we utilizing all the capacities available to brand our home countries in the digital sphere as a connected community? What’s the current situation of Albanians in the multilateral world, especially after the recent political developments in Kosovo? Where do we stand in terms of legitimacy in international relations? These are some of the questions that will look for answers through this panel, where the speakers will be diplomats and international policy scholars and researchers.



NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 19:00 - 20:00 CET
Parallel Session:
Movie "Table Stories"
by
Eroll Bilibani
-
Speaker
.
Samir Karahoda
-
Speaker
The first sports federation in Kosovo that gained international recognition after independence is that of Table Tennis. Two local enthusiasts see this as a great opportunity and start self-financing training sessions for new players. One of them, after seven years in Germany with the profession of painter and professional ping pong player returns to Kosovo, hoping that the post-war country will offer prosperity and new job opportunities.
The film is based on real events. Although a local story, the reflection of daily life will analyze the phenomenon faced by all athletes and their failure due to lack of basic conditions for exercise.
The film is partially funded by the Kosovo Cinema Center, the Municipality of Prishtina and the Municipality of Prizren, and is in co-production with the European Cultural Television ARTE.
The film is based on real events. Although a local story, the reflection of daily life will analyze the phenomenon faced by all athletes and their failure due to lack of basic conditions for exercise.
The film is partially funded by the Kosovo Cinema Center, the Municipality of Prishtina and the Municipality of Prizren, and is in co-production with the European Cultural Television ARTE.


NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 19:00 - 20:00 CET
Parallel Session:
Art and Cultural Diplomacy
by
Fadil Berisha
-
Moderator
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 numbers of the Albanian artists with world impact has increased the opportunities to promote the Albanian culture as well as to influence other nations and promote our countries and communitie. Considering that, it is important to discuss and explore how the Albanian celebrities can effectively use their fame as a means of adding credibility and attracting attention to Albanian Culture.


NOVEMBER 19, 2020 - 20:00 - 21:00 CET
Discussion with US Ambassadors
Exploring Creative Diaspora Contributions
by
Behar Xharra
-
Moderator
In this interactive session, U.S. Ambassador to Kosovo Phillip S. Kosnett and U.S. Ambassador to Albania Yuri Kim will discuss how diaspora can leverage their unique skills and experience to support economic potential in their home countries. Questions and comments from the audience are encouraged.

NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 15:00 - 16:00 CET
Panel Session:
Local Investments and Market Linkages - USAID Kosovo Export-Led Growth Activity
by
Skender Rama
-
Moderator
1. What are the 3 (three) main challenges faced by the Kosovar diaspora in investing more in Kosovar businesses? Are there opportunities and how can we overcome them?
2. Do they think that a joint private investment fund established abroad (USA, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Lichtenstein, Switzerland) and jointly managed by professionals from the diaspora and Kosovo, and with institutional participation of development banks’ funds would be able to increase the production and service capacity of local companies in foreign markets.
3. Where and in what Kosovar companies should concentrate in order to improve the possibility for penetration in foreign markets and the most fruitful cooperation with the Kosovar diaspora?
2. Do they think that a joint private investment fund established abroad (USA, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Lichtenstein, Switzerland) and jointly managed by professionals from the diaspora and Kosovo, and with institutional participation of development banks’ funds would be able to increase the production and service capacity of local companies in foreign markets.
3. Where and in what Kosovar companies should concentrate in order to improve the possibility for penetration in foreign markets and the most fruitful cooperation with the Kosovar diaspora?


NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 16:00 - 17:00 CET
Panel Session:
Social-Economic Impact of COVID-19
by
Hilmi Gashi
-
Moderator
Covid-19 has caused lots of economic problems to people in the countries of origin, but also in the diaspora communities across the globe. Although Diaspora communities have affected their country of residence, they still sent many more remittances at the country of origin during this time? What has been done to address the vulnerable population? What are the most pressing issues that we need to address?


NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 16:00 - 17:00 CET
Parallel Session:
Access to International Markets and Investments through Diaspora Engagement
by
Erkens Gjini
-
Moderator
The creation of a successful startup is an uphill battle. Eighty-hour work weeks, all-night
coding or strategy sessions, and months or years of uncertainty all become worth it when the company transforms into a successful business. Nine out of ten startups fail, so making it into the elusive 10% is worth celebrating. To become a successful and scalable startup, international expansion is the way to go! The question is how does someone go about in scaling outside the country of origin? And how does someone raise funds to take on such expansion.
Join us and listen to our Diaspora Mentors speak on the topic!

NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 17:00 - 17:30 CET
Lightning Talks
Five minute inspirational presentations by people with creative ideas and success stories related to the diaspora. After all presentations, discussion and collaboration will be stimulated - speakers will be open to questions and answers from participants.

NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 17:30 - 18:00 CET
Networking Space
Space to get to know each other, meet, create potential collaborations and also get familiar with the digital platform.



NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 18:00 - 18:30 CET
Fireside chat
Diaspora Economic Engagement | Building the confidence on the homelands
by
Elvin Guri
-
Keynote Speaker
.
Ilva Tare
-
Speaker


NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 18:30 - 19:30 CET
Parallel Session:
Albanian Women in Tech
by
Anila Hyka-Smorgrav
-
Moderator
This panel will look into the achievements of Albanian women in technology as well as the challenges they face in a previous male dominated field. How can we further empower women in a sector with high development potential? What programs are needed to match education in home countries with the demands of the international market in this sector? How important is coordination between key actors in developing a favourable and attractive ecosystem for girls and women in this sector?


NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 19:30 - 20:30 CET
Parallel Session:
Philanthropy and the role of NGOs
by
Dajana Berisha
-
Moderator
Among Albanians, the willingness to donate money, time, and expertise to the countries of origin and others has never been lacking. At various times, many people in diaspora have responded to calls for help at home. But, over the years, the dynamics of diaspora communities has changed. In this regard, philanthropy towards countries of origin is reshaping. At a time when there are many causes and cases around the world to donate for, there is a need for trust and a strong connection to focus donations to home countries. In order to increase the latter we need to talk not only about donations, but also the sustainability of the money given and the impact delivered. We need to talk about transparency from both sides - donors and receivers to create such partnerships that deliver impact: how should we approach it; How to demand transparency? How to implement and report the money received from donations, as well as Efficiency and effectiveness of donations as a way to trust-building.
**This panel will be held in Albanian language and English language translation will be provided


NOVEMBER 20, 2020 - 19:30 - 20:30 CET
Parallel Session:
Technology, Innovation and Outsourcing
by
Fabiola Duro
-
Moderator
Where do we stand in an increasingly digital world, where analytics and data provide an edge, businesses are using technology as a strategic imperative, a driver of efficiency and productivity, and a tool to empower employees and navigate forward planning. Outsourcing of services to the home countries: what is the real potential?



21 NËNTOR 2020 - 12:00 - 13:00 CET
Panel Session:
Investment and Financing in Real Estate - Kosovo Market
by
Gjon Gjonlleshaj
-
Speaker
.
Driton Nikaj
-
Speaker
This session will address topics related to real estate investments, what are the best practices for your real estate investment in the Kosovo market? How can you buy, finance your apartment or house in Kosovo? Who are the main real estate actors in Kosovo and other issues related to financing and investing in real estate.


21 NËNTOR 2020 - 14:00 - 13:00 CET
Panel Session:
The future of Remittances
by
Hana Bacaj
-
Moderator
Remittances constitute the largest inflow into the Albanian and Kosovar economy, leaving behind foreign direct investments and exports. They have been a stable and safe financial flow in the Albanian economy for years. Remittances are a source of income for more than 1/4 of Albanian families. However, most of this money goes for consumption and has a very low impact on social-economic development. Also, given the dynamics of the diaspora communities it is normal to expect a decrease in remittances over the years. Therefore, we need to think about the future of Remittances from the Albanian Diaspora perspective, as well as from the countries of origin.



NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 15:00 - 15:30 CET
Fireside chat
by
Kingsley Aikins
-
Keynote Speaker
.
Martin Russell
-
Speaker
**This Fireside chat will be held in English language and Albanian language translation will be provided.

NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 15:30 - 16:30 CET
Parallel Session:
Human Capital: Brain gain and Foreign Direct Investments in the era of digitalisation
by
Fëllanza Podrimja
-
Moderator
How can we facilitate "brain gain" (knowledge and competence transfer) from the diaspora to the home countries?; Which opportunities does digitalisation provide for global engagement?; What is the potential, which measures need to be implemented and which types of circular migration programs need to be in place to enable short and long-term return to the countries of origin?; How can investors and businesses create more jobs and how can remittances be redirected into foreign direct investments for the most fragile sectors (education, agriculture, etc.)?; What active role should the diaspora, state institutions and international contributors play?



NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 15:30 - 16:30 CET
Parallel Session:
The Benefits of getting an American Education and Degree in Kosovo
by
Kamal Shahrabi
-
Speaker
.
Michael E. Hess
-
Speaker
Albanian diaspora has often been the epicenter of initiatives that have had a major impact in Kosovo’s development. Diaspora capital flows have been, and are likely to remain, a determining factor, especially in regards to remittances in Kosovo to families for wellbeing, individual investment and development.
But what have we offered back?
For our Diaspora, studying at RIT Kosovo (American University in Kosovo) gives the comfort of being next to their extended family members in this part of the world, enjoy the culture of your ancestors, the fresh food, learn or reinforce the language and still receive an accredited and worldwide recognized US degree, awarded by Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) from New York. All this, for a fraction of the cost that would otherwise incur in United States.
This conference panel will feature an interactive discussion with the conference members, whether potential students, parents or genuine education enthusiasts about the benefits of getting an American Education and Degree in Kosovo.
But what have we offered back?
For our Diaspora, studying at RIT Kosovo (American University in Kosovo) gives the comfort of being next to their extended family members in this part of the world, enjoy the culture of your ancestors, the fresh food, learn or reinforce the language and still receive an accredited and worldwide recognized US degree, awarded by Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) from New York. All this, for a fraction of the cost that would otherwise incur in United States.
This conference panel will feature an interactive discussion with the conference members, whether potential students, parents or genuine education enthusiasts about the benefits of getting an American Education and Degree in Kosovo.



NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 16:30 - 17:30 CET
Panel Session:
GIZ: Leveraging potential - promoting development
by
Ledja Liku
-
Moderator
.
David Oberhuber
-
Speaker
The Migration and Diaspora Program is a program mandated by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It is implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ). Since 1980, the program combines expertise in sustainable development and labor markets. The target groups of this program are members of the Albanian diaspora in Germany, who have completed a professional or academic education in Germany or in an OECD country and / or have accumulated work experience in the profession and want to engage in the short or long term. in Albania and Kosovo, in order to transfer knowledge for development.
In the framework of the Conference "Diaspora Speaks", the Panel "Utilization of potential - promotion of development" will enable the sharing of engagement experiences as Returned Professionals and Diaspora Experts, through the GIZ Global Program "Migration and Diaspora", in public institutions , academics and civil society organizations, contributing to socio-economic development in Albania and Kosovo.
In the framework of the Conference "Diaspora Speaks", the Panel "Utilization of potential - promotion of development" will enable the sharing of engagement experiences as Returned Professionals and Diaspora Experts, through the GIZ Global Program "Migration and Diaspora", in public institutions , academics and civil society organizations, contributing to socio-economic development in Albania and Kosovo.

NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 17:30 - 18:00 CET
Lightning Talks
Five minute inspirational presentations by people with creative ideas and success stories related to the diaspora. After all presentations, discussion and collaboration will be stimulated - speakers will be open to questions and answers from participants.



NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 18:00 - 18:30 CET
Fireside chat with Champs
by
Robin Krasniqi
-
Speaker
.
Lorik Cana
-
Speaker


NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 18:30 - 19:30 CET
Parallel Session:
Health Systems at the home countries and Healthcare Professionals in Diaspora
by
Amarildo Ceka
-
Moderator
The Healthcare System needs support and know-how, in addition it needs additional funding invested across the departments. Covid19 has created a better picture of what needs to be done in a short and long term? In this context, knowing that a big number of healthcare professionals and practitioners are exiting the countries of origin, we want to navigate and understand what are some of the pros and cons of engaging diaspora professionals in this particular sector? Beyond their skillset on the field, can diaspora be an entry point for lessons learned from other countries, for new knowledge and networks? To what extent have we utilized the existing platforms of healthcare professionals with Albanian origin so far?

NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 19:30 - 20:30 CET
Parallel Session:
Albanian Language and Heritage
by
Rudina Xhunga
-
Moderator
The Albanian language has played a very important role historically in maintaining the cultural and ethnic identity of Albanians in the diaspora. But, the evolution of the diaspora communities has left behind the learning and maintaining process of the Albanian language, that as a result of the growing exposure to foreign cultures of the second and third generations of Albanians abroad. Meanwhile, in home countries, the standard version of Albanian language is at risk and subject to changes due to weak education systems. Therefore, it is important to see the linguistic heritage and the importance of the Albanian language in preserving national identity at a time when globalization is melting identities. This panel comes at a date that marks the 112th anniversary of the Congress of the Manastir (1908), when the Alphabet of the Albanian Language was standardized.


NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 19:30 - 20:30 CET
Sesion paralel:
Rethinking Culture Activities in Diaspora
by
Ali Salihu
-
Moderator
Cultural activities in the diaspora are as old as the emigration and settlement of our compatriots in different parts of the world. While in many areas the diaspora has undergone significant transformation and development, cultural activities do not seem to have kept pace. Even in the 20th year of the 21st Century, most of the cultural activities revolve around national holidays, directed by cultural associations and with protagonists mainly of Albanian pop.
Is this really all we can offer our compatriots in the diaspora? What needs to be changed to bring the genuine Albanian culture closer to the new generations that have been born and are growing up in the diaspora? What are the possibilities of culture and art as a bridge connecting the diaspora with the homeland and vice versa? What is the role of diaspora associations in promoting Albanian culture in their countries? Thankfully there are also very good examples of a completely different approach to organizing some cultural associations. What is the concept of these associations? What can associations learn from each other's experience? How much and how can our artists help? For these and other questions we will talk to representatives of associations and artists from the diaspora.


NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 19:30 - 20:30 CET
Parallel Session:
Connecting Youth from Diaspora and the Home Countries
by
Çlirim Sheremeti
-
Moderator
GERMIN experience shows that diaspora community members tend to be more enthusiastic and have a largely optimistic worldview. Moreover, they tend to view Kosovo and Albania as a “land of opportunity” – in their view, the lack of existing services and capacities means that there is room for individuals to create solutions from scratch. Such opportunities might be less prevalent in their communities, due to a certain level of social and economic development. Youth in vulnerable communities in Kosovo and Albania, on the other hand, often embrace a more pessimistic view of the world around them and are skeptical of their potential to change things for the better. Therefore, bringing them in a co-creation journey could be beneficial in terms of re-thinking the homeland, and ways in which we nurture and create a space where everyone thrives.
How can youth play a role in this journey? Who is responsible for building a mechanism that provides formal and informal encounters between diaspora and home youth groups? What has been done so far? Are the youth interested to engage in the co-creation process? What are the challenges and opportunities young Albanians face across the globe?



NOVEMBER 21, 2020 - 20:30 - 21:00 CET
Secret Guest
by
Rita Ora
-
Speaker
.
Erion Veliaj
-
Speaker
message from participants
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