A professional and personal journey in New York City
When I first arrived in New York City for my fellowship at Luminary, I knew it would be an important professional experience, but I did not expect how deeply it would impact me on a personal level as well.
Luminary is located in the heart of Manhattan, in Midtown NoMad, and from the first days I felt so welcomed in a very dynamic and inspiring environment. I joined the Programming and Events team, where I was involved in the planning and coordination of professional networking events and branded activations. I worked closely with different partners and sponsors, helped manage event logistics, and supported the team in creating meaningful experiences for members and guests.
Before coming to the United States, I had almost eight years of professional experience working in public administration in Albania and with international organizations, mostly European. Because of this background, getting the opportunity to work in a real American work environment was especially interesting for me. It was very different from what I was used to, in terms of work culture, communication style, and pace. This contrast helped me learn a lot, not only professionally, but also in how to adapt, collaborate, and bring together different ways of working.
This fellowship gave me the chance to step outside my comfort zone and grow in a new direction. I became more confident in my abilities, more independent in my decision-making, and more open to new perspectives. Being trusted with real responsibilities in such a fast-moving environment was extremely valuable for my professional development.
At the same time, living in New York for six months was an experience in itself. Honestly, it felt like much longer than six months. The city is intense, fast, and full of life. No two days are the same, and there is always something happening. Whether it was exploring new neighbourhoods, meeting new people, or simply walking through the city, every day felt like a small adventure.
I also feel very lucky that I got to experience all seasons in New York. I arrived in late July and left in late January, which meant I enjoyed the city in summer, autumn, and winter. From warm summer evenings and rooftop views, to colourful autumn walks, and finally Christmas lights and snowy winter days, each season had its own magic and made the experience even more special.
On a personal level, this experience was a big moment of character development for me. Being far from home pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me a lot about myself. I became more independent, more adaptable, and more comfortable with uncertainty. It helped me grow not only as a professional, but also as a person.
New York also gave me the chance to enjoy so many cultural experiences. I went to concerts, museums, exhibitions, and events that I had only seen online before. I discovered how much I enjoy small everyday moments as well, like trying different cuisines from all over the world, finding new coffee spots, and experiencing how diverse and international the city truly is. These little pleasures became an important part of my daily life and made the experience even more meaningful.
I am also very grateful that during my time in the United States I had the chance to visit other states such as Washington D.C., Miami, Philadelphia, North Carolina, and Wisconsin. Some of these trips were for work, but I also tried to really maximize the experience by visiting family and friends in different places and making the most of my time there.
Looking back, this fellowship has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my professional journey so far and I’m so glad I went for it. It gave me valuable experience, unforgettable memories, and a new way of seeing myself and the world. I am confidently returning home with new skills, new perspectives, and a strong motivation to apply everything I have learned in Albania.
Deeply grateful to AADF for making this opportunity possible and I am proud to now call myself a MIP Alumni, and eager to bring the knowledge and experience I’ve gained back to Albania and put it into practice.
Klestia Cekani,
Luminary, NYC, MIP Fellow, Cohort 2026 – 2027
