Thirty young members of the Albanian diaspora arrived in Prishtina to begin their OriginAL journey as part of Cohort 9, the first cohort of 2026. What started with introductions at RIT Kosovo (A.U.K.) quickly evolved into a meaningful experience filled with learning, reflection, and the formation of new friendships.
Throughout their first week in Kosovo, participants explored the places, stories, and people that have shaped the country’s identity. In Gërmia Park, outdoor challenges and team-building activities helped transform a group of young people from different corners of the world into a growing community. Through shared experiences, friendly competition, and plenty of laughter, they discovered that some of the strongest connections are built outside the classroom.
In Prishtina, participants explored the capital’s landmarks and gained a deeper understanding of the city’s history, culture, and everyday life. A visit to Prekaz offered a powerful opportunity to reflect on sacrifice, resilience, and the events that played a defining role in Kosovo’s recent history.
The journey continued in Prizren, where centuries of heritage met contemporary culture. From wandering through the city’s historic streets and climbing up to the Prizren Fortress to meeting Mayor Shaqir Totaj and learning about the city’s development, participants experienced the many layers that make Prizren unique. Their visit to DokuFest and the screening of Hive sparked important conversations about storytelling, resilience, and the power of culture to inspire change.
One of the most moving moments of the week came in Krusha e Madhe, where participants met Fahrije Hoti. Her story of transforming unimaginable loss into strength and collective action left a lasting impression on the group. A visit to the Memorial Museum deepened their understanding of the human stories behind conflict and the importance of preserving memory.
In Gjakova, participants were welcomed by Mayor Ardian Gjini before exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage through the Grand Bazaar and its historic landmarks. The city’s warmth and character offered yet another perspective on Kosovo’s diverse identity.
The week concluded with a visit to Peja and Rugova, where participants discovered the cultural significance of the Patriarchate of Peja, met Mayor Gazmend Muhaxheri, and took part in a tree-planting initiative that allowed them to leave behind a small but meaningful contribution to the communities that welcomed them. The day ended with a reflection session, giving participants space to process everything they had experienced and share what these moments meant to them.
Through every city visited, every conversation shared, and every story heard, OriginAL Cohort 9 has begun to understand that reconnecting with one’s roots is about more than learning history. It is about building relationships, embracing shared experiences, and discovering a sense of belonging within the global Albanian community.
As the journey continues into Albania, the first week has already left a lasting mark, not only in the memories of the participants but also in the friendships they have formed and the deeper understanding they have gained of themselves, their heritage, and each other.
