Ada Shehu
Ada Shehu is a professional specializing in arts and cultural management, driven by a commitment to inclusiveness, innovation, and the preservation of cultural heritage within the contemporary creative landscape. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, during which she completed an Erasmus+ program in Rome, where she began merging her interest in management with the creative and cultural sectors.
Ada continued her academic journey with a master’s degree at Rome Business School, focusing on cultural project management. Her work and research explore how creative industries can foster cultural exchange, heritage appreciation, and audience accessibility, while integrating innovative approaches to digital engagement and cultural storytelling. Through this perspective, she views innovation not only as technology but as a tool for expanding cultural participation and sustainability.
Professionally, she has collaborated with a European company based in the Netherlands, contributing to initiatives that promote European artists across digital and cultural platforms. She has also been involved in a new cultural project dedicated to promoting Albanian culture and artists abroad through exhibitions, performances, and cross-disciplinary collaborations.
Currently, Ada is completing her internship at Ki Smith Gallery in New York, one of the city’s most dynamic and strategically positioned art spaces. The gallery serves as a hub where visual art intersects with music, literature, and performance, fostering an inclusive and innovative environment. Through this experience, Ada is deepening her expertise in curating, cultural communication, and event management, expanding her understanding of how multidisciplinary art institutions can shape global cultural dialogue.
Host Institution: Ki Smith Gallery, New York
Elsa Beraj
Elsa Beraj is a Senior Business Analyst with over eight years of experience across finance, lending, auditing, consulting, core banking, and fintech system solutions. She specializes in bridging financial and business needs with technical execution to deliver innovative, customer-focused outcomes.
Currently, Elsa is completing her professional fellowship at ABB Inc. USCRC in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she contributes to technology-driven initiatives that connect finance and innovation. Before joining ABB, she worked with Armundia Group as a Senior Business Analyst, supporting investment banking systems through requirements analysis, documentation, and functional testing for clients such as Fideuram SGR and Intesa Sanpaolo Bank in Italy. Previously, at Facilization, she was involved in the implementation and integration of Oracle Core Banking and Payments systems for FIMBank plc, in compliance with Maltese banking regulations, focusing on configuration, testing, and end-to-end functional documentation.
Earlier in her career, Elsa worked with Helius Systems, where she played a key role in the development and deployment of Eterna Core Banking Systems at SLBD Bank, a World Bank project aimed at enhancing Caribbean banking infrastructure through Agile methodologies. Before transitioning into fintech, she gained solid experience in the financial sector — first as a Loan Officer at NOA SA, where she managed SME and individual lending portfolios in Albania, conducted financial and risk analyses, and built long-term client relationships; and later as an Audit Analyst at Deloitte Albania & Kosova, in collaboration with Deloitte Italia, where she participated in audit engagements across banking, sales, and service industries headquartered in Italy and operating across the European market.
Elsa holds a Scientific Master’s degree in Finance and a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and Accounting from the University of Tirana. Her professional mission is to continue leveraging her diverse background and international experience to drive innovation and sustainable growth in the financial technology sector.
Outside of work, Elsa enjoys reading, painting, traveling, and exploring cultural and architectural landmarks that inspire creativity and balance.
Host Institution: ABB Inc. USCRC, Raleigh, North Carolina
Elton Zorba
Elton is an urban and rural development specialist from Durrës, Albania. He holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Territorial Planning and Rural Development Policies from IUAV University of Venice, Italy.
With professional experience spanning both Italy and Albania, Elton has worked with local and central institutions, including Durres municipality, the Albanian Development Fund (FSHZH) and the National Territorial Planning Agency (AKPT). His work has focused on planning policy, geospatial data analysis, and sustainable territorial development.
Now based in the U.S., Elton is passionate about mobility planning and is currently exploring the infrastructure and mobility services in the Nashville area to better understand local transportation challenges and opportunities.
Host Institution: Civic Design Centre, Nashville, TN
Evjeni Mato
Evjeni Thomagjini Mato is a cultural heritage and archaeological conservation professional with over fifteen years of experience in the preservation, management, and sustainable promotion of cultural heritage in the Saranda region. She currently serves as Conservation Manager at the Butrint Management Foundation, where she coordinates key conservation initiatives, project implementation, and strategic management for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint.
Previously, she served as Director of Tourism, Projects and European Integration at the Municipality of Saranda, as well as Specialist of Monuments and Archaeology at the Butrint National Park and the Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage in Vlorë.
She holds a Master’s Degree in Cultural Heritage from the University of Tirana and is a member of ICOM Albania. She has participated in several international professional development programs focused on heritage project management, communication strategies, restoration practices, and digital preservation, organized by UNESCO, ICCROM, the Heritage Management Organization, and other leading cultural heritage institutions.
Her fieldwork includes participation in numerous excavation and conservation campaigns in Butrint National Park, along with initiatives that promote and safeguard cultural heritage across southern Albania. She is passionate about protecting archaeological sites and continually seeks to deepen her knowledge of best practices in their management and conservation.
Through her current international experience in the United States with the Getty Conservation Institute, she values the opportunity to exchange knowledge and learn from global professionals in sustainable site management and cultural heritage conservation, particularly in the areas of risk assessment and climate change impacts on archaeological sites. This experience strengthens her expertise and enhances her ability to contribute to innovative approaches to heritage preservation in Albania.
Host Institution: Getty Conservation Institute, Los Angeles, California
Fatjon Kalemaj
Fatjon Kalemaj is an AI strategist and product-driven technologist focused on bridging strategy and execution in the world of intelligent systems. His work centers on helping organizations adopt and scale AI in practical, secure, and human-centered ways.
At By The People Technologies (BTP) in New York City, Fatjon contributes as an AI Strategist & Project Manager, supporting companies through their AI transformation journey. His work spans AI research, AI training and workshops, prompt engineering and the integration of advanced systems such as RAG pipelines and MCP servers. In this role, he operates across both the strategic and technical dimensions, shaping adoption frameworks while building real-world solutions that enhance productivity and innovation.
He is also involved with Arclio.ai, a New York–based startup developing orchestration layers for AI systems, where he researches practical use cases and explores how Arclio’s platform can deploy targeted AI solutions that create measurable impact.
Previously Fatjon worked at Banka Kombëtare Tregtare (BKT) as an IT Business Analyst and Digital Channels Product Owner, leading digital transformation projects and improving customer experiences. He also served as a trainer for new hires, helping teams understand and adopt the bank’s latest digital systems. Fatjon began his career at Raiffeisen Bank Albania, working on the operational side, gaining early experience in process optimization and customer-focused systems.
Beyond his current roles, he is continuously developing his own startup concept, exploring how AI can be embedded into meaningful, human-centered products. Fatjon actively engages with New York City’s vibrant startup ecosystem, attending demo days, investor sessions, and community events where ideas are tested, validated, and often funded by VCs and PEs seeking the next unicorn ventures.
Outside of work, Fatjon is an active and curious individual who enjoys tennis, volleyball, and pickleball, which he picked up after moving to New York. He also loves traveling, discovering new cultures, and connecting with people from different backgrounds, believing that curiosity and openness are essential to both personal and professional growth.
Host Institution: By The People Technologies (BTP), New York City
Ilir Hasmuca
Dr. Ilir Hasmuca is an Orthopedic Surgeon working at the Trauma University Hospital of Tirana since 2019. He graduated as General Physician from Faculty of Medicine, University of Tirana in 2011. In 2019, Dr.Hasmuca graduated his Residency program in Orthopedic Surgery in University of Medicine, Tirana. Since 2025, Dr Hasmuca is a PhD student at the University of Medicine Tirana.
Dr. Hasmuca has a wide experience not only in applying medicine but also in teaching. Since graduation, he has been teaching Physiology, Anatomy and Orthopedics at different private Universities in Tirana. Since 2025 he is part time lecture at the University of Tirana, Department of Surgery. Also, Dr.Hasmuca has served as Family Physician to a small community near Tirana for almost 2 years.
Dr. Ilir Hasmuca holds an Erasmus Mundus Exchange Program Scholarship, as he attended Undergraduate program at the University of Granada in Spain in 2010 . As well, Dr. Hasmuca is Open Medical Institute Alumni. He attended the Salzburg Seminars in Austria in 2018 and 2024. In October 2022 he completed his Observership at the AKH Vienna, Austria in Orthopedic Surgery.
Also Dr. Hasmuca is Member of Albania Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) Course, an American College of Surgeons Program, as an Instructor.
Dr. Hasmuca is a passionate Surgeon who loves his profession and wants to improve his professionalism through new orthopedic surgical techniques. He is a lifelong learner. At free time, he loves playing and watching football, reading and watching documentaries about animals, life and caring about plants.
Host Institution: Hospital for Special Surgery/HSS, Manhattan, New York City
Klestia Cekani
Klestia Cekani is a public sector professional with a background in law and over seven years of experience supporting institutional coordination, citizen engagement, and regional development in Albania. She has worked closely with senior government officials and directors across national agencies and institutions, including the Prime Minister’s Office, the State Agency for Strategic Programming and Aid Coordination (SASPAC), the Ministry of Culture, and the Albanian Development Fund, contributing to initiatives that strengthen the relationship between government and communities.
With a Master of Science in Public Law from the University of Tirana, Klestia brings legal expertise and a strong understanding of public administration to every role she takes on. Her career has been centered around building more transparent, efficient, and inclusive institutions. In addition to her work in Albania, she has participated in international programs focused on governance, sustainability, and women's entrepreneurship. She is particularly passionate about empowering women in leadership, advancing good governance, and creating meaningful impact through collaboration and dialogue.
Host Institution: Luminary, New York City
Ledia Libohova
Ledia Libohova is an architect and the co-founder and principal of Libohova Architects, a Tirana-based architecture studio recognized for its contemporary design approach and sensitivity to context. Educated at the University of the Arts London, she brings an international perspective to her work, leading projects that span large-scale residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. Her portfolio includes collaborations featured on platforms such as ArchDaily, reflecting her commitment to thoughtful, innovative, and enduring architectural design.
As a studio leader, Ledia decided to expand her expertise and embark on a new professional journey in New York City, joining the internationally renowned construction company Skanska. There, she works within the Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) department, managing and coordinating complex construction processes through advanced digital technologies such as BIM, VR/AR, laser scanning, and drone mapping.
Driven by a passion for integrating design and technology, Ledia continues to explore the intersection between architecture, digital innovation, and construction management. Her future interests focus on the potential of artificial intelligence in construction processes—examining how data-driven methodologies, predictive design tools, and automation can transform the industry and foster more efficient, sustainable, and intelligent built environments.
Host Institution: SKANSKA, NY
Marjeta Lloshi
I am Marjeta Lloshi, a multidisciplinary designer from Albania, currently shaping ideas at COLLINS in New York, one of the world’s leading design companies.
My work bridges brand design, strategy, and motion, exploring how stories can move culture forward. At COLLINS, I contribute to global rebranding projects across technology, sports, and finance, crafting identities that merge intelligence with emotion.
Before, I collaborated with Calvin Klein, Reebok, and Ralph Lauren, etc at Basic Resources Inc., and led the creative direction for Kep Merli Resort & Residences and the Buletin App, where I learned how design can shape perception, build trust, and inspire belonging. I have also collaborated with studios in San Francisco and New York, as well as with artists in the music industry, creating branding that connects sound, identity, and emotion.
Today I am also the founder of HNS, a SaaS company reimagining the future of hospitality management. Built at the intersection of design, data, and human experience, HNS explores how intelligence and empathy can coexist inside a system, turning management into meaning.
For me, design is a way of leading with imagination, curiosity, and care. I believe brave questions spark transformation. So, i explore...build...grow and repeat.
Host Institution: Collins, NY
Endri Avllaj
Endri holds a degree in Urban Planning from the Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism at the Polytechnic University of Tirana. His career began in a small studio focused on interior design before transitioning to one of the largest and most prestigious studios in Tirana, Atelier4. During this period, he had the opportunity to work on significant projects with a major impact on Albania. Notable among these were several projects under the EU4Culture program, which focused on the restoration and revitalization of cultural heritage sites damaged by the earthquake in Albania, as well as various projects with residential, cultural, and hospitality functions.
His involvement in these projects facilitated his professional growth and fueled his desire to take on greater responsibilities in the projects he participates in. His passion for learning and exploring new challenges led him to New York, where he currently works for the international construction company SKANSA. He is part of the VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) department, an innovative unit that coordinates and manages construction projects on-site using BIM and other advanced technologies such as VR, drones, and laser scanning.
Outside of work, Endri has a keen interest in photography and enjoys collecting as many pictures as possible during his travels.
Host Institution: Skanska, NYC
Enea Saliaj
Enea Saliaj is a Master’s-level Electrical Engineer with 6+ years of hands-on experience in both technical execution and project management within the electrical and electronical sectors. He started his career at ITE Engineering as an assistant engineer at TKOB Rehabilitation and over the years, he has managed and delivered complex engineering projects, blending deep technical knowledge with a strong focus on practical, results-driven solutions.
Enea has completed advanced training programs with industry leaders such as Legrand, Siemens, and Schneider Electric, gaining specialized expertise in modern electrical systems and smart infrastructure.
Currently Enea is training at ABB R&D center, contributing to the development of new-generation, high-efficiency transformers aimed at improving energy performance , sustainability and CO2 reduction.
Driven by a passion for innovation and engineering, Enea continues to evolve as a professional, and a coleader always seeking ways to push technology forward while delivering high-impact engineering solutions and teamwork.
Host Institution: ABB Inc., Raleigh NC
Ergert Spahillari
Ergert is a GIS expert with nearly a decade of experience, currently working at the State Authority for Geospatial Information of Albania. He holds a Master of Science in Geodetic Engineering and GIS. Over the years, he has developed advanced skills in cartography, data processing and 3D visualization. What really excites him is blending his profession with his passion for programming by finding innovative ways to integrate geospatial data into smart and impactful solutions.
After several years in the professional field, Ergert decided to explore the academic route and expand his knowledge in new areas. He is currently conducting research at DePaul University where his work focuses on the role of GIS in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals and Digital Twin technology. Dedicated to GIS he aims to shape smarter and more sustainable cities believing that maps aren’t just about location, they’re tools for building better communities.
A lifelong learner who is always curious about keeping up with the latest technology, Ergert continues to explore innovative tools and techniques driven by belief that geospatial innovation can shape a more sustainable future. Whether in his day job or his academic pursuit, Ergert is all about using data to drive real world change.
Mapping change, shaping futures.
Host Institution: DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois
Jona Lama
Jona is a driven data and project professional with a growing career at the intersection of business intelligence, data analysis, and project management. She is currently part of Riverside Acceleration Capital in New York, where she has deepened her expertise in BI and analytics by contributing to strategic initiatives, collaborating across teams, and helping shape data-driven decision-making in a fast-paced, innovative setting.
She holds a PMP certification, which complements her technical background with a strong foundation in structured project leadership and strategic planning. To further enhance her portfolio, she is also pursuing the CPMAI (Cognitive Project Management for AI) certification—bridging the gap between traditional project management and the integration of AI solutions in business environments. This combination enables her to navigate complex, tech-driven challenges with clarity and impact.
Previously, Jona worked as a Project and Database Manager at Raiffeisen Bank Albania, where she played a key role in supporting digital initiatives and improving internal processes. Her responsibilities included managing data systems, contributing to cross-departmental projects, and helping drive innovation through better use of technology and information. This experience strengthened her ability to lead projects, collaborate across teams, and deliver practical, data-informed solutions in a structured business environment.
Outside of work, she channels her passion for challenge and resilience into outdoor sports—from running half marathons to hiking—as well as reading books and engaging in cultural activities that broaden her perspective and fuel her curiosity. These interests continually inspire her to set new goals, stay balanced, and connect more deeply with the world around her.
With hands-on experience in both local and international environments, Jona brings a thoughtful, adaptable approach to every challenge and is always eager to learn, grow, and drive meaningful impact.
Host Institution: Riverside Company in New York, NY
Judoris Merkaj
Judoris Merkaj is a communications and marketing professional with a diverse career that began in Albania and expanded across the Western Balkans. She developed her expertise within intergovernmental organizations, NGOs, and leading marketing agencies, laying a solid foundation for her regional impact.
As a Communications Officer at the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO), Judoris played a pivotal role in shaping and executing communication strategies across the region. She managed internal and external communications, led public relations efforts, curated web content, and engaged diverse audiences through social media—contributing to youth empowerment and cross-border cooperation through several EU-funded initiatives.
An entrepreneur at heart, Judoris founded a startup in the cryptocurrency and Web3 space, leading the brand’s positioning and go-to-market strategy.
She holds a Master’s degree in Business/Managerial Economics from La Sapienza University in Rome and a Bachelor’s degree in International Marketing from Epoka University.
Today, Judoris is recognized as a marketing leader and startup founder, known for her proactive mindset and collaborative spirit. With a knack for crafting clear, strategic marketing briefs and bridging client needs with creative execution, she delivers impactful results that help businesses grow in today’s fast-paced digital world.
Host Institution: Luminary, New York, NY
Kostika Gjekushi
Kostika Gjekushi is a versatile architect with international experience and a strong passion for exploring the full spectrum of architectural practice. Holding a Master of Science in Architecture with honors, he has contributed to small, medium, and large-scale residential and mixed-use projects across the United States, France, Albania, and Saudi Arabia.
Kostika’s career reflects his drive to engage with architecture from multiple angles — from conceptual design to highly detailed technical execution. At Schuco USA, he honed his technical expertise by producing façade shop drawings for high-end clients, including Apple’s new store expansion program.
He later joined Clement Blanchet Architecture, a renowned Paris-based firm with an extensive international portfolio. There, he contributed to schematic design, design development, and sales plans, while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality architectural solutions. His adaptability and enthusiasm for complex challenges allowed him to work on a large-scale masterplan in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, involving a mix of typologies such as office spaces, residences, branded apartments, and a five-star hotel.
In parallel with his professional work, Kostika is deeply committed to lifelong learning. He regularly participates in architectural conferences and events and has recently shifted focus toward sustainable and future-forward design. His interests include material selection, net-zero carbon initiatives, and the development of zero-energy buildings.
Currently, Kostika is based in San Francisco, CA, working at Page & Turnbull, an award-winning architecture studio specializing in historic preservation, planning, and conservation. This role allows him to explore a highly specific and meaningful niche within the architectural profession
Host Institution: Page & Turnbull in San Francisco, CA
Ornela Nela
Ornela is an experienced data analyst with several years of professional expertise in the field. She holds a Master of Science degree in Economics from the University of Tirana. Her career began at the Albanian Institute of Statistics, where she developed strong analytical and advanced statistical skills. As part of her role, she contributed in preparing, analyzing, and sharing statistical data, supporting several projects that aimed to improve data quality, particularly in the areas of economic and business statistics. She also completed specialized training programs organized by EUROSTAT, earning certifications that further expanded her knowledge, and participated in working group meetings in Luxembourg, to stay aligned with best international practices.
Beyond her technical skills, Ornela also has a background in project management. During her studies, she has been actively involved with youth non-governmental organizations, gaining valuable management experience by organizing and running projects both in Albania and internationally.
Her host institution is Aon, where she is currently working as a data analyst within the Global Claims division. Dedicated to continuous learning, she is currently pursuing a Data Science course focused on SQL and Tableau offered by Cornell University.
Host Institution: AON, Chicago, Illinois
Skerdi Mullaj
Skerdi is a passionate data engineer and aspiring tech strategist driven by curiosity, creativity, and a deep commitment to impactful problem-solving. With a background in data engineering at Vodafone Albania, Skerdi has worked across various leading initiatives in automation, data quality, and infrastructure optimization.
Currently, he is expanding his global perspective through an internship at Aon in Chicago, where he contributes to the development of robust data infrastructure which supports high speed reporting for the insurance industry.
In parallel, Skerdi is enrolled in the Marketing Analytics and AI executive education program at UC Berkeley Haas School of Business, where he is sharpening his strategic mindset and exploring the transformative potential of AI in business.
A believer in lifelong learning and community engagement, Skerdi has organized a data engineering bootcamp, dataTALK forum and leading AI initiatives. Whether he is working on data related project or brainstorming GenAI solutions for executive leadership, he brings a collaborative, thoughtful, and forward-thinking approach to everything he does.
Host Institution: Aon, Chicago, IL
Sonja Alushi
Sonja is a software developer and AI strategist with a love for building things that matter — and sharing what she learns along the way.
She started her journey at Wolf Technologies, diving into the fast-moving world of startups where she learned to build quickly, think creatively, and adapt constantly.
Later, she joined Lufthansa Industry Solutions, where she played a key role in digitalizing the complex flow of aircraft management and repair operations at Lufthansa Technik, turning aviation challenges into smart, scalable systems. Along the way, she picked up first place at a Lufthansa Hackathon with a sustainability-focused solution that proved her ideas could fly beyond the code.
But Sonja isn’t just a builder — she’s a teacher at heart. At SDA Albania by Protik, she’s guided students through their first real experiences with backend development, testing, and project building. From debugging code to delivering final presentations, she’s helped many go from curious beginners to confident developers.
Most recently, Sonja deepened her path in New York as a MIP alum, working at By The People Technologies focusing on AI development, strategy, and project management. There, she worked closely with VC and PE firms, as well as healthcare companies and their portfolio ventures, helping them understand, adapt, and integrate AI into their systems. Whether it was aligning internal teams, designing tailored AI products, or shaping long-term AI roadmaps, her work was all about bridging big ideas with practical implementation.
Outside of work, Sonja is a right-brained creator who loves cats, reading, and crocheting. She believes the best ideas come when creativity and logic work hand-in-hand — and that technology, at its best, should always feel a little bit human.
Host Institution: By The People in New York, NY
Xhejna Topçiu
Xhejna Topçiu is a visionary, licensed civil/structural engineer with over six years of experience in designing residential and commercial buildings, schools, kindergartens, as well as transport and urban infrastructure. She holds a Master of Science in Structural Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Tirana and a certification in Real Estate Evaluation.
While still a student, her curiosity for innovation and sustainability led her to pioneer Albania’s first research on ”Transparent Concrete”, which was featured in OPTIME magazine and fueled her ongoing dedication to sustainable engineering practices and innovative materials.
Throughout her career, Xhejna has contributed to significant national initiatives, including the “Restoration of Cultural Monuments (such as the "Shën Ndoi" Church in the Cape of Rodon),” “The Post-2019 Earthquake Reconstruction” and the “Development of 100 Villages of Albania” project, demonstrating her commitment to community-oriented engineering and sustainable development. Her professional experience also spans major infrastructure projects like: “Elbasan Auto-Moto Park”, “Durrës Yacht Marina”, “Galeria by TEG”, and various educational and cultural structures.
Driven by her passion for technology, she pursued a certification in Java development at SDA by Protik, aligning with her ambition to integrate smart systems and automation into engineering workflows.
Currently, Xhejna serves as a Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Engineer at Skanska in New York City, where she contributes to major construction projects using cutting-edge digital tools and collaborative workflows.
She is passionate about the future of construction, advocating for the use of BIM, VDC, AR/VR, and drones to enhance design, construction, and maintenance practices. Her long-term vision is to lead the digital transformation of the construction sector in Albania and empower the next generation of engineers with the skills and knowledge needed to innovate and succeed in an evolving industry.
Host Institution: Skanska, New York City, NY