Belonging to a Culture I Learned to Call My Own
Written by Christine Swanson, 7th Cohort (August 2025)
I went to Albania to find my roots. What I didn’t expect was to find a part of myself I never knew I was missing.
My great-grandparents were from Korçë and immigrated to the United States, but for most of my life, I knew very little about Albania or what it meant to be Albanian. I was fortunate to grow up with Mediterranean and Balkan foods and traditions, in large part because my father was adopted into a Greek family at birth. It wasn’t until much later in his life, when I was in my late teens, that he discovered he was born to an Albanian mother who had to give him up for adoption. Over time, he reconnected with his birth mother and relatives, opening a door to a heritage that had been quietly waiting for us.
Even with this new knowledge, I still felt distant from my Albanian identity. I carried both curiosity and uncertainty, wondering where I fit, and whether I had the “right” to claim a culture I had only recently learned was mine. When I discovered the OriginAL Program, I felt compelled to apply. I hoped it would help me understand what being Albanian meant for me, but I couldn’t have imagined how profound the experience would be.
Two weeks, seven cities, countless conversations, tears, laughter, and shared stories later, I learned something life-changing: identity is not only inherited. It can be discovered, embraced, and chosen with your whole heart.
The Journey Begins: Syracuse → Tirana → Prishtina
All of those thoughts stayed with me as I stood at the Syracuse, New York airport, passport in hand, watching my mom wave goodbye before I walked toward security. I didn’t know it then, but that moment was the start of a journey that would change me in ways I couldn’t yet understand.
My travel to Albania felt both surreal and symbolic. I flew from Syracuse to Detroit, then on to Paris before finally landing in Tirana. It was my first time traveling internationally alone, and between the exhaustion of long layovers and the thrill of what awaited, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. By the time I reached Paris, fatigue hit me hard. But underneath it all, I was proud of myself for already coming this far.
When the plane descended over the mountains of Tirana, I felt moved. The landscape felt both foreign and familiar, as my family had taken a trip to Albania a couple years prior. Stepping off the plane, I felt a rush of excitement; not only because I had finally arrived, but because this time, I wasn’t just visiting Albania. I was beginning a journey to understand where I come from.
I met my taxi driver, checked into my hotel, and tried to rest after close to 24 hours of travel. I wanted to be fully present when the program officially began the next morning. As I looked out the window of my hotel that night, the city lights of Tirana felt warm and inviting. At this point, it was really starting to sink in that I was here.
The next morning, I walked to the meeting point to join the other OriginAL participants traveling from Tirana to Prishtina. I felt nervous, questioning whether I would fit in orwould be able to resonate with the experiences of the other participants. But, this feeling didn’t last very long. As soon as I boarded the bus, the nervousness began to fade. I sat with a group of participants who immediately welcomed me. Angela, from Toronto, Canada, and Patrik, from Portugal, were the first two people I met. I remember being surprised, in the best way, that someone from Portugal had Albanian roots. It struck me for the first time just how far the Albanian diaspora reached, and how many stories, like my own, were scattered across the world.
The bus ride to Prishtina was long, especially after a full day of travel, but the beautiful views of the Albanian countryside kept me awake and filled with anticipation. Crossing the border into Kosova was a special moment for me. I had never been to Kosova before, and I felt the significance of entering a place that holds so much of our history.
When we arrived at the hotel in Prishtina, I finally met the rest of the participants. It felt surreal to stand in a room full of young Albanians from all around the world, 39 of us in total from 16 different countries, all brought together by the same desire: to connect with our roots. That evening, we attended the opening reception, where we had the chance to get to know one another and hear from OriginAL alumni. Their words stuck with me. They encouraged us to be fully present, to embrace every moment, and to create lasting bonds during the two weeks ahead. They said the program goes by quickly, and they were right!
At some point during the reception, I shared my story with several of the participants. I was a little nervous to speak about it, unsure how it would be received. To my surprise, everyone responded with such kindness and genuine emotion. Several people told me they were touched by my story, that the program felt “made for me”, and that they were inspired by the journey I had taken to get here. Their words made me feel seen, welcomed, and accepted.
We ended the night walking through downtown Prishtina, listening to live music and grabbing food from a local restaurant. Even though we had only just met, I already felt connected to the group.
Day 2 – Prishtina: Learning, Volunteering & Hearing Our Stories
Our first full day in Prishtina was packed with activities and learning. After breakfast at the hotel, we headed to the Innovation Centre Kosovo (ICK) for icebreakers to help us get to know one another better. The icebreakers filled the space with laughter, and I could already feel some of my initial nerves fading away.
After the activities, Dio, our wonderful tour guide and one of the volunteers on the trip, gave a short presentation about the Albanian diaspora, Albania’s modern history, and Kosova’s modern history. I appreciated having this context at the beginning of the program. While some parts of Albania’s modern history were familiar to me, there was still so much I didn’t know, especially about Kosova. Learning about Albania’s independence in 1912, the years of isolation under Enver Hoxha’s dictatorship, and the fall of communism in 1991 helped me better understand the country I come from. The history of Kosova was even more eye-opening for me. Hearing about the events that led to the Kosova War, and Kosova’s declaration of independence in 2008, gave me a deeper appreciation for the resilience, strength, and pride of the Albanian people.
After the presentation, we took some photos on the rooftop and then headed to lunch. On the way, I had the chance to listen to others share more detailed stories about their experiences growing up in the diaspora. Even though our countries, languages, and childhoods were different, there was a shared understanding in the way people spoke about identity; about growing up between cultures, trying to stay connected to roots that felt both close and far away. It meant a lot to hear these stories so early in the trip. I didn’t feel alone in my questions about belonging.
In the afternoon, we visited TOKA, a nonprofit organization in Kosova focused on youth empowerment and social change. We participated in their “Solidarity Action Day,” where young people work for a day and donate their wages to a cause they care about. I was paired with Lidia to work at Pasta Fasta, a local restaurant. I felt nervous at first, not only because of the language barrier (thankfully Lidia helped me out tremendously here!), but also because I had never worked in food service before. But, I was ready to try my best and take advantage of the opportunity. I really liked being able to contribute to the community in a small way. At the end of our shift, we chatted with some of the workers and exchanged stories about our lives. It was a brief moment, but one that stayed with me during the trip.
Day 3 – Prishtina → Prizren: History and a Growing Bond
Our final morning in Prishtina began with a city tour that brought us closer to Kosova’s history and resilience. Our first stop was the National Library of Kosova, a striking building with a design that immediately caught my attention. From there, we walked to the Heroinat Memorial, a monument made of 20,000 pins, one for each woman who was victimized during the Kosova War. Standing before it, I felt a stillness come over our group. It was difficult to take in the weight of what it represented, but it was also a powerful reminder of the strength, sacrifice, and resilience of the women during the war.
We continued through the city to visit the Cathedral of Mother Teresa and then the Newborn Monument, a national symbol celebrating Kosova’s independence. Seeing the monument in person, knowing how much struggle and hope it embodied, made me appreciate the pride and resilience that Kosovars carry in their hearts.
After lunch, we made our way to Prekaz to visit the Jashari Family Memorial. This was one of the hardest parts of the trip for me. We listened to a member of the Jashari family share what happened to her family during the three-day war in March 1998. Hearing her speak and standing in the place where these events unfolded was emotional in a way I wasn’t fully prepared for. Many of us were holding back tears. It was painful to imagine the reality of what happened here, and it’s a moment that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. The visit reminded me of how recent this history is, and how deeply it shaped the identity and spirit of the Albanian people.
Later in the afternoon, we boarded the bus to Prizren. The atmosphere was quieter than usual as we processed the emotions of the day. When we arrived at the hotel and later walked through the city for the first time, the soft glow of the evening lights and the sound of people talking along the river brought a gentle sense of comfort. Prizren had a warmth to it that eased the heaviness we felt. It didn’t take long before the conversations and laughter slowly returned, and I think we were all grateful to have one another to lean on.
Day 4 – Prizren: Culture, Laughter & One of My Favorite Days
Our first full day in Prizren quickly became one of my favorite days of the entire program. Prizren is often described as the cultural capital of Kosova, and from the moment we began our city tour, I could understand why. The blend of Ottoman, Byzantine, and Albanian influences gave the city a charm that was impossible not to fall in love with.
We visited the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, which is believed to be where Mother Teresa’s father was baptized, and then made our way to the Sinan Pasha Mosque. The floral and Islamic motifs were beautiful, so were the baroque-style paintings that were added later on. From the mosque, we continued through the old streets of Prizren and eventually began our walk up to the Prizren Fortress.
The climb was steep, but the view that waited for us at the top made every step worth it. Standing above the city, looking out at the mountains and the river winding below, was incredible. Someone started playing music, and soon enough we were dancing, laughing, and taking photos together.
The day wasn’t over yet, as we still had outdoor activities ahead of us! We went hiking and then ziplining, which was such a fun way to let loose after a heavy emotional day before. We shared lots of laughs climbing up the mountain to reach the zipline. Waiting for our turn on the zipline turned into its own source of joy. We played games, danced, sang, and shared so many laughs. It was a day that reminded me of the beauty of simply being present and letting yourself enjoy the moment.
By the end of the night, I felt lighter. The happiness we shared throughout the day helped balance the heaviness we had felt in Prishtina and Prekaz. The mix of culture, nature, and laughter made me feel even more connected to the group, and to Kosova.
Day 5 – Prizren → Gjakovë: Grief, Strength & a Deeper Connection
Our last day in Prizren began with a quieter tone, as we prepared for one of the most emotional visits of the trip. We traveled to Krushë e Madhe, a memorial museum dedicated to the victims of the 1999 massacre. Walking through the museum, we saw personal belongings, photographs, and stories of those whose lives were taken. The weight of the history was heavy, and the room felt still as we listened to the guide describe what happened there.
It’s hard to put into words how deeply the experience affected me. Reading the stories and seeing the objects left behind made the tragedy feel painfully real. Many of us were brought to tears as we moved through the exhibit. Even though the grief was overwhelming, there was also a powerful sense of unity among us. We stood together, embracing and supporting one another through the moment. It was a reminder of the strength and resilience that runs through Albanians, even in the face of unimaginable loss.
After leaving the museum, we took time to reflect. The bus ride to Gjakovë was quieter than usual, everyone processing the emotions of the morning. Once we arrived and settled into the hotel, we gathered for a reflection activity outside. We started with some stretching led by Vlera, which helped relieve some of the heaviness we carried. Then, we sat in a circle and shared how the experience had impacted us so far.
Hearing everyone speak so openly was moving. Many of us expressed how grateful we felt to be on this journey of learning and growing together. Even though it had only been five days, it truly felt like we had known each other much longer. The shared vulnerability and comfort we found in one another strengthened our bond in a way I hadn’t expected so soon. By the time evening came, we were ready for something lighter to help us wind down a bit. We had dinner and ended the night with games and laughter back at the hotel.
Day 6 – Gjakovë: Community, Curiosity & Valle Overlooking the Lake
After an emotionally intense day, our time in Gjakovë offered a shift back toward lightness and connection. We began the morning exploring the city, starting with a visit to the old bazaar. The cobblestone streets, traditional shops, and warm greetings from the locals made the town feel especially welcoming. I enjoyed browsing the small stores and seeing the handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Next, we went to BONEVET, an innovation center aimed at empowering youth through hands-on learning in STEM. I loved seeing the creativity and passion behind the projects being developed there. It was inspiring to learn about their mission and how they were creating opportunities for young people to learn, build, and explore their interests. Seeing an organization focused on education, growth, and curiosity made me feel hopeful about the future generation in Kosova.
Lunch that day was one of my favorite memories. We ate at a restaurant overlooking a beautiful lake, and between the food, the laughter, and the dancing, it felt like such a joyful moment in the trip. We began playing music, and before long, we were all dancing valle together. Moments like this made me realize how quickly we had formed a bond with one another.
In the afternoon, we visited the Rahovec winery, where we toured the facility and learned about the winemaking process. We also tried some raki, which was a bit strong for me, but it was fun to try something so traditional to Albanian culture! Later, we visited the vineyards, tasted fresh grapes straight from the vines, and enjoyed the peaceful scenery before heading back to our hotel.
Day 7 – Gjakovë → Shkodër: Dancing on the Water & Honoring the Past
We had an early start to Day 7, waking up at 5 AM to begin our journey from Gjakovë to Shkodër! Even though we were all sleepy, there was excitement in the air because we knew the Komani Lake ferry awaited us. After grabbing quick espressos (which was becoming a familiar and necessary ritual!), we made it to the ferry port.
As soon as we boarded the ferry, any lingering tiredness disappeared. The views were breathtaking, with the mountains rising on both sides and the emerald water reflecting the morning light. What made the experience even more special was the energy on the boat. Music was playing, and before long, we were all dancing together on the deck, taking in the scenery and enjoying each other’s company. There was so much joy in that moment.
After the ferry ride, we continued our journey to Shkodër. Once we arrived, we had lunch and checked into the hotel before heading out to explore the city. One of the most meaningful stops we made was at the Site of Witness and Memory, a museum dedicated to preserving the stories of those who suffered under the communist regime in Albania. The museum had once been a prison, and walking through the rooms knowing people had been held there for speaking or acting against the regime was emotional. Learning about the extent of the surveillance, restrictions, and persecution during that era was difficult, but important. It made me reflect on how much strength and courage ordinary people had to hold on to their beliefs, identity, and humanity in such conditions.
After the museum visit, we continued with a walking tour of the city, which helped lighten the mood again. Shkodër had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed seeing more of its streets, cafés, and culture. That evening, we celebrated one of the participants’ birthdays, Edi’s, which brought laughter and joy back into the day. Sharing food, music, and stories together reminded me once again of how special our group had become to one another.
Day 8 – Shkodër → Gjirokastër: A Journey South & Stories of Tradition
Day 8 began with another travel day, this time taking us from the northern part of Albania all the way to the south. When we arrived in Gjirokastër, we had lunch and then met with our tour guide to explore the city. Gjirokastër, often called the “City of Stone,” had such a unique charm. The cobblestone streets, stone-roofed houses, and mountain backdrop made this town so beautiful. One of our first stops was the Ethnographic Museum, built on the site of Enver Hoxha’s birth home. The museum offered a look into traditional Gjirokastër life, with beautifully decorated rooms, household items, clothing, and the way families lived generations ago. I enjoyed getting a glimpse of the customs and traditions that shaped daily life in the region.
After the museum, we walked up to Gjirokastër Castle. The climb was worth it for the view overlooking the entire city and the valley below. The castle itself was fascinating to explore, with its stone walls, old cannons, and history woven into each corner. We took time to wander, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.
Later in the afternoon, we had some free time to explore the downtown area. The shops were filled with handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and unique souvenirs. I enjoyed browsing through them and seeing how artisans preserved their culture through their work. It was a peaceful way to end the day, slowly walking through the town, taking everything in at our own pace.
Day 9 – Gjirokastër → Sarandë: Natural Beauty, Ancient History & a Moment I’ll Never Forget
Day 9 was a day filled with beauty, history, and one of the most memorable moments of the entire trip. We left Gjirokastër in the morning and headed toward Sarandë, with a few special stops along the way.
Our first stop was the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), which is a beautiful natural spring and one of the largest natural water sources in Albania. The water was so blue and clear. We took time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the surroundings.
After the Blue Eye, we continued on to Butrint, an archaeological site that holds layers of history from ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times. We explored old theatres, baths, and stone pathways that countless people had walked long before us. One of the most special moments happened in the ancient amphitheater. As we stood in the theater, Hana sang for us, her voice filling the space with a kind of beauty that gave us chills. Listening to her sing in that historic place felt emotional and powerful, like the past and present were briefly connected through something timeless.
After our visit to Butrint, we made our way to Sarandë, a coastal city on the Ionian Sea. The hotel we stayed at was right on the beach, and seeing the clear blue water as we arrived was breathtaking. After checking in, we enjoyed a tour of the city and visited a museum that showcased Sarandë’s local culture and history. It was interesting to learn about the region and see how the coastal identity differed from the places we had visited earlier in the trip.
Day 10 – Sarandë: Sun, Sea & Savoring the Moment
Day 10 was a much-needed day of rest and relaxation. After so many days filled with travel, learning, and emotional experiences, having a full beach day in Sarandë was amazing. Our hotel was right by the water, so the moment we stepped outside, we were greeted by the sound of waves and the most beautiful shades of blue stretching across the Ionian Sea.
We spent the day swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the peacefulness of the coast. The water was clear and refreshing, and it felt amazing to swim, talk, and laugh with everyone without any schedule to follow. After such a full and emotional journey, I appreciated the chance to slow down and take in everything we had experienced so far.
There was something special about having an unscheduled day together at this point in the trip. With only a few days left, we were all aware that our time together was passing quickly. I tried to stay present as much as possible, to capture the sound of the waves and the comfort of being surrounded by people who had come to mean so much to me.
In the evening, we headed into the center of Sarandë to explore the downtown area. We walked along the waterfront, browsed local shops, and enjoyed the lively atmosphere of the city at night. It was one of those simple yet unforgettable evenings; with warm air, music playing in the distance, the sea just a few steps away, and all of us savoring the time we had left together.
Day 11 – Sarandë → Tirana: A Full Circle Moment
Leaving Sarandë in the morning, we began our journey to the final city of the program, Tirana. As the bus pulled away from the coast, I felt a mix of gratitude and a growing sadness knowing our trip was nearing its end. The drive gave me time to reflect on how much had happened since I first arrived in Albania almost two weeks earlier. I had walked into this country with uncertainty, and now I was traveling toward our last stop with a heart full of connection, memories, and a sense of belonging I hadn’t expected to find so deeply.
When we arrived in Tirana, it truly felt like a full circle moment. This was where my journey began, where I had landed alone, nervous, and unsure. Returning with the group felt symbolic of how much had changed within me. After checking into the hotel, we headed out for a city tour. Our guide walked us through major landmarks, including Skanderbeg Square, and shared more stories about Albania’s culture and history.
One of the most impactful parts of the day was our visit to Bunk’Art2, a museum built inside an underground bunker from the communist era. The museum preserves the stories and memories of the people who lived through that time, including those who were imprisoned or persecuted for going against the regime. Walking through the dim hallways and learning more about the fear, control, and suffering people endured was emotional. Even though we had already learned about this history earlier on the trip, being inside the bunker made the reality of it especially vivid. It was sobering, and it reminded me again how important it is to acknowledge the past while appreciating the freedom and resilience of Albanians today.
After the museum, we continued exploring the city. We grabbed dinner, enjoyed our free time, and took in one of our last nights in Tirana together. Only days remained, and I could feel everyone holding on to the moments a little tighter.
Day 12 – Tirana: History, Heritage & A Night I’ll Never Forget
It was hard to believe that Day 12 had arrived. With only one full day left in the program, I woke up feeling both excited and a little emotional, wanting to make the most of every moment. We began the day with a trip to Kruja, a historic town known for its strong connection to Albanian identity and resistance.
Our main stop was the Skanderbeg Museum, located inside Kruja Castle. The museum is dedicated to Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, who led the resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 1400s. Walking through the museum, seeing artifacts, and learning more about his legacy helped me better understand the pride Albanians hold for their history and the courage that shaped the country’s spirit. Standing on the castle grounds, overlooking the beautiful landscape, I felt a deep admiration for the strength and resilience that has defined Albanian identity for centuries.
After exploring the museum, we walked through the charming bazaar in Kruja, browsing the traditional shops filled with handmade crafts, rugs, jewelry, and cultural items. I picked up a few souvenirs, each one carrying meaning, tradition, and a memory of this journey I will never forget.
We returned to Tirana in the afternoon to get ready for Albanian Night, something we had all been looking forward to. Albanian Night was the highlight of the trip for me, an evening dedicated to celebrating our heritage through music, dance, and tradition. We dressed in traditional Albanian clothing, and it felt incredibly special to wear something so meaningful to our culture for the first time. Seeing everyone dressed in traditional outfits made the night feel even more unifying.
We spent the night dancing, laughing, and embracing everything that makes Albanian culture so beautiful. At one point, I remember looking around the room and feeling overwhelmed with gratitude. Grateful for the people I had met, for the experiences we shared, and for the way this journey helped me connect with a part of myself I wasn’t raised with, but always carried inside me.
It was bittersweet knowing the program was coming to a close, but I tried my best to stay present, to soak in the music, the joy, and the togetherness. Albanian Night wasn’t just a celebration. It was a moment that tied together everything we had experienced; our history, our identities, our roots, and the bonds we had formed along the way.
Day 13 – Tirana: Goodbyes, Gratitude & Carrying It Forward
The last day of the program arrived much faster than any of us wanted it to. Waking up that morning felt different. There was a bit of heaviness in the air. Some participants had early flights and left right after breakfast, and saying those first goodbyes made everything feel real and was very emotional. Even though we had only known each other for two weeks, the connections we formed were very deep.
Later in the morning, we gathered for one final reflection activity. Sitting around in a circle, we took turns sharing our thoughts about the journey and what it meant to us. Listening to everyone speak was emotional and heartwarming. Many shared how the program helped them feel more connected to their Albanian identity, and how meaningful it was to learn about our history together, to laugh and cry together, and to build friendships across borders. I felt so proud of each person in that room for showing up with an open heart and embracing everything this journey had to offer.
One of the most special parts of the day was writing letters to one another. We took time to reflect on the friendships we had formed and wrote notes filled with appreciation, encouragement, and memories. I will always treasure those letters. They are reminders of the love, kindness, and connection I found on this trip. They are reminders that I am part of a community that extends far beyond this experience.
The goodbyes were hard. There were tears, long hugs, and promises to stay in touch. Even though we were all heading back to our different countries, I wasn’t as afraid of the distance as I thought I’d be. As Lirim Krasniqi, Co-Executive Director of GERMIN, reminded us, the most important part of OriginAL isn’t just the trip itself. It’s what comes after. Staying connected, supporting our communities, and continuing to discover our roots is what keeps this experience alive.
After most of the group departed, I spent one extra day in Tirana before heading back to New York. Walking through the city for the last time, I felt a mix of sadness and peace. Two weeks earlier, I had arrived unsure of where I belonged in my journey to discover my Albanian roots. Now, I was leaving with a sense of clarity, connection, and pride. This journey had given me a family across the world, a deeper understanding of my heritage, and a piece of myself I didn’t know I was missing.
Closing Reflections: What I Carry Forward
Reflecting on my OriginAL journey, I feel incredibly grateful to have experienced something so meaningful, eye-opening, and transformative. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organizers of the program for all their hard work in creating such an incredible itinerary and documenting our amazing journey. What began as a step into the unknown became a path that led me closer to my roots, my identity, and a community I never realized I was missing. I arrived in Albania searching for connection, and I left with so much more; new friendships, a deeper understanding of my heritage, and a sense of belonging that I will always carry with me.
This trip taught me that identity is not something fixed or measured by how much you know, the language you speak, or where you were raised. Identity can be rediscovered, nurtured, and chosen with intention. It grows through curiosity, through listening to the stories of others, through walking the land of your ancestors, and through opening your heart to the parts of yourself you haven’t discovered yet.
I hope that others who feel distant from their roots, whether by circumstance, time, or life’s twists and turns, know that it is never too late to begin your journey back. You don’t need to have all the answers. You don’t need to know every tradition or speak the language fluently. All you need is the willingness to learn and the courage to take that first step. For me, that step changed everything.
I return home inspired to continue learning the Albanian language, to stay connected with the friends who now feel like family, and to share what I’ve learned with those around me. I want to honor my heritage not only through memory, but through action; whether that’s showing up for Albanian cultural events, staying involved with the diaspora, or passing down the traditions and stories that are now part of who I am.
The beauty of OriginAL is that it doesn’t end when the trip ends. It continues through the connections we keep, the pride we carry, and the ways we give back to our communities. I will always treasure the memories. From dancing on the Komani Lake ferry, to learning about our history in Prishtina and Shkodër, to celebrating Albanian Night dressed in traditional clothing, surrounded by people who understood what my heart had been searching for.
This journey helped me find a piece of myself. One that had been waiting quietly, patiently, for me to come home to it. And for that, I will be forever grateful. Faleminderit, OriginAL! This experience has profoundly changed my life.
