Every story that changes lives begins with people who choose to believe in something before the rest of the world can fully see it.
OriginAL is one of those stories.
What started as an idea in 2022, to reconnect young Albanians from the diaspora with their roots, identity, and homeland, has grown into a movement that has already touched hundreds of lives across the world. Today, more than 257 participants from 25 countries have experienced OriginAL, carrying home memories, friendships, purpose, and a deeper understanding of who they are.
But none of this happened alone.
Behind every participant who stepped foot in Albania,Kosovë, or North Macedonia for the first time, behind every emotional reunion with heritage, behind every young person who returned home more connected and inspired, there were people who quietly chose to believe in this mission.
People who gave not because they had to, but because they understood the importance of belonging…. People who saw the value of investing in the next generation… People who believed that identity, connection, and community are worth protecting.
To our earliest supporters and major donors, thank you.
Your generosity helped transform an idea into reality. Your trust gave OriginAL the strength to grow year after year. Because of you, hundreds of young Albanians found a part of themselves they did not know was missing.
We are deeply grateful to:
Elvin Guri
Mark Kosmo
Rich Lukaj
Albanian American Community of Illinois
Ardi Shita & Shita Family Foundation
Global Albanians Foundation
Eliza Dushku
Etrita Ibroci
Fatos Koleci
Guljed Birce
Avni Mustafaj
Anila Hyka Smorgrav
Nevila Dudaj
Albanian American National Organization, New York Chapter
Dorjan Puka
Florent Ilazi
Gazmend Kapllani
Massachusetts Albanian American Society, MAASBESA
Mentor Ahmeti
Mira Puka
Samy Agolli
Agron Abrashi
Danny Blloshmi
Daniel Hyseni
These names represent more than donations. They represent belief. Belief in young people.
Belief in connection. Belief in a future where the Albanian diaspora remains deeply connected to its roots and to one another.
Because of your support, OriginAL continues to grow into something far bigger than a program. It is becoming a lifelong community, a bridge across generations and borders, and a reminder to young Albanians everywhere that home is never as far away as it may seem.
Thank you for standing with us from the beginning.
Thank you for continuing to believe.
And thank you for helping bring the next generation home.
