Bio

I am a Software Engineering student from the Canadian Institute of Technology (CIT) in Albania, passionate about Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, and technological innovation.

Beyond technology, as an open spirit, I am interested in youth empowerment, intercultural exchange, and international cooperation. Through youth projects and innovation initiatives, I have gained experience working with people from diverse backgrounds, exchanging ideas, and developing creative solutions.

I enjoy teamwork, learning from different perspectives, and turning ideas into meaningful initiatives. My goal is to combine my technical knowledge with international collaboration to promote innovation, inclusion, and positive social change.

Years of experience

1-2 years

Areas of expertise

• Youth mental health, wellbeing, and healthy lifestyles - I believe that mental health, wellbeing, and a healthy lifestyle are essential for young people's personal growth and development. I value creating supportive and inclusive environments where young people feel comfortable expressing themselves, building meaningful connections, and supporting one another. Through international youth exchanges and collaborative activities, I appreciate the importance of social connection, work-life balance, and intercultural understanding in promoting overall wellbeing. I am interested in initiatives that raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage healthy habits among young people.
• Digital skills, tech empowerment, and innovation - With a background in Software Engineering from the Canadian Institute of Technology (CIT), I am passionate about digital skills, technological innovation, and the role of technology in empowering young people. Through initiatives I have explored how creative ideas and innovative approaches can address community challenges. I am eager to expand my knowledge of AI and digital solutions while promoting digital literacy, creativity, and technology-driven opportunities for young people.
• Family, relationships, and life skills - I believe that healthy relationships, strong family connections, and essential life skills play an important role in personal growth and wellbeing. Through my experience in hospitality, youth projects, and international exchanges, I have developed communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Working with people from different backgrounds has taught me the importance of empathy, mutual respect, and understanding different perspectives. I value building meaningful connections, resolving disagreements through open communication, and creating supportive environments where people feel respected and included. I am interested in initiatives that help young people develop emotional intelligence, independence, and the skills needed to navigate everyday challenges.
• Peacebuilding, conflict transformation, and social cohesion - I am passionate about peacebuilding, intercultural dialogue, and strengthening social cohesion among young people. I have explored the importance of mutual understanding, reconciliation, and cooperation between people from different cultural backgrounds. I believe that open communication, empathy, and respect for diversity are essential to overcoming stereotypes and building lasting connections. I am eager to contribute to projects that promote peaceful coexistence, active citizenship, and stronger, more inclusive communities.
• Arts, culture, creativity, and heritage - Arts, culture, and creativity have always been an important part of my life. I attended music school for nine years, studying piano, singing, acting, and dancing, which helped me develop artistic expression, discipline, and creativity. I am also deeply connected to the cultural heritage of my hometown, Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historic architecture, traditions, and cultural identity. Through my participation in youth initiatives, including a winning UPSHIFT project focused on preserving the stories and memories of older generations in Berat, I have explored ways to connect creativity with cultural preservation. I am passionate about promoting cultural diversity, protecting local heritage, and using art and storytelling to connect generations and bring communities together.
• Project management, grant work, and organizational capacity - Through different international projects I have gained valuable experience in teamwork, idea development, and collaborative problem-solving. These experiences have helped me understand the importance of planning, setting goals, managing responsibilities, and working toward shared outcomes. My professional experience in hospitality, including my role as a head waiter, has further strengthened my organizational, leadership, and time-management skills. I am eager to develop my expertise in project management, grant applications, fundraising, and organizational development to help create sustainable initiatives with a positive impact on young people and communities.

Areas of interest

• Youth participation, democracy, and civic life - I am interested in youth participation, democracy, and civic life because I believe every young person deserves a voice and the opportunity to make a difference. I value open discussions, equal opportunities, and the freedom to express different opinions. I am eager to learn more about how young people can become more involved in their communities, influence decisions that affect their lives, and contribute to a fairer and more inclusive society.
• Community development and local youth ecosystems - I am interested in community development and local youth ecosystems because I believe strong communities are built when young people have opportunities to participate, share ideas, and turn them into action. I value initiatives that bring people together, address local needs, and create opportunities for personal and professional growth. Growing up in Berat has also made me appreciate the importance of preserving local identity while encouraging new ideas and opportunities for younger generations. I would like to contribute to initiatives that make communities more inclusive, active, and supportive of young people.
• Inclusion, diversity, equality, and anti-discrimination - I believe everyone deserves to feel accepted, respected, and valued, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. I am interested in promoting inclusion, celebrating diversity, and challenging stereotypes and discrimination. I value open-mindedness, empathy, and equal opportunities, and believe that learning from different perspectives helps us grow as individuals and communities. I would like to contribute to creating safe, welcoming environments where everyone feels free to express themselves and participate without fear of judgment or exclusion.

Hard skills

• Software engineer
• Photography

Soft skills

I bring strong communication, teamwork, adaptability, and interpersonal skills, developed through my professional experience in hospitality and my involvement in youth and intercultural activities. Working as a waiter, receptionist, and head waiter has strengthened my leadership, organization, time management, and ability to work under pressure. I am open-minded, creative, and eager to learn, with a genuine interest in understanding different perspectives and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds.

I would describe my experience as **beginner to intermediate in youth project work**, with practical experience in international exchanges, teamwork, and innovation initiatives. I am confident in contributing to group activities, sharing ideas, taking responsibility, and supporting project goals, while continuing to develop my skills in project management, facilitation, and community engagement.

Languages

• English - Upper-intermediate
• Albanian - Native