VEPRA

I'm super excited to announce that I will be sharing my insight from attending hearings on Capitol Hill!Since I'm based in Washington, D.C., just a short walk from the U.S. Capitol, I've begun attending select congressional hearings to witness these critical debates firsthand — and I'll be bringing you insights and reflections straight from the room.In this episode, I take you inside a powerful and emotional House Oversight Committee hearing titled: “A Hearing with Sanctuary State Governors.”The hearing was packed. The rhetoric was intense. And the stakes for millions of immigrants in America could not be higher.I'll share what I observed, why this debate matters so deeply, and why I believe it's time for smart, humane immigration reform that reflects the best of American values.These are important moments in our nation's story — and only time will tell how they unfold. I hope this episode offers you a thoughtful and honest perspective from inside the room.

In this episode of Vepra, Anja shares insights (in English and Albanian) from her attendance at the U.S.-Montenegro Senior Economic Dialogue, held in Washington, D.C., on October 21, 2024. This landmark meeting brought together high-profile leaders, including Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez and Montenegrin Deputy Prime Minister Nik Gjeloshaj, alongside Montenegro's ministers of energy, public administration, maritime affairs, and oil, gas, and mining. Together, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen economic ties between the United States and Montenegro, focusing on areas like cybersecurity, sustainable energy, and investment security. Anja delves into the dialogue's implications for regional stability, economic growth, and Montenegro's journey toward European Union accession—topics that resonate deeply with Albanian-Americans and the broader diaspora. She highlights how these collaborative efforts open new avenues for Albanian-Americans to invest in the Balkans with greater confidence, foster secure digital infrastructures, and align with shared values like democracy and sustainability. Join us to explore how this partnership marks a step forward for the Balkans and how diaspora engagement can contribute to a brighter, cooperative future in Southeast Europe. Thank you so much for listening!

A recording by our host Anja Dinion for Gazeta Dita , published in Albania.

Odeta Kushi is from Albania and Kosovo , she is currently in Washington DC as First American Deputy Chief Economist and a prominent voice in real estate, providing analysis, commentary and forecasts on trends in the U.S. real estate and mortgage markets on media outlets! Her story is inspiring because she truly believes in the concept of "Commit to lifelong learning" and going after your dreams "fearlessly". She lives by the motto and is an inspiration to all Albanian women out there! Enjoy listening to this episode! Love, Vepra Team

Samantha Sarelli is the definition of confidence and believing in yourself. She was former Miss Connecticut Teen USA 2020 and placed top 15. She's also an advocate against human trafficing through the creation of her video series , Giving Voice to Victims , where she interviews various survivors, experts, and advocates to raise awareness on human trafficking. Sam is proud of her Albanian roots and is proud to support the next generation of strong Albanian women! Listen and watch this episode! ⁠"VEPRA" podcast/tv show RTSH3 (@vepra_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos⁠

Dr. Elton Skendaj , born in a small town in Vlora , Albania goes after his ambitious of creating a more just and peaceful world and through education and smart work becomes the Director of the Democracy and Governance M.A. program at Georgetown University! His research concentrates on reinforcing democratic institutions, public engagement, rule of law, anti-corruption measures, and nonviolent conflict resolution. With a Ph.D. in Government from Cornell University, he has published in reputable journals, contributed expertise to organizations such as the United Nations and U.S. Institute of Peace, and held leadership positions. His academic journey includes teaching at various institutions, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence. Enjoy listening to this philosophical and inspiring story!

Ivi Demi is a comedian in Washington DC , he's not only funny but a world traveler with a broad horizon! Make sure to listen to the full episode! You wont regret it! @ivi.demi @vepra_podcast

This episode is dedicated to Professor Frosini for Constitutional Development course on the history of Albania -- antiquity to the newly Independent nation of Albania -- current political system in place -- the judicial system and how the country dealt with COVID 19 pandemic. What holds a society together? What elements can create an identity?

Ramiz Kukaj has taken over the Bronx!!!!! By designing and building a restaurant reminiscent of Albania and Kosovo with memorabilia dating back centuries — it felt like we were teleported back home. Ramiz and his passion to preserve and to showcase our culture and our food in such a delicate and intricate way provides much healing to many immigrants who have left their homeland and are currently building here. Check out @ckakaqellu and it’s 3 locations! Food is delicious. You don’t want to miss this episode. Full video episode available on IGTV: Instagram: vepra_podcast Enjoy!

Extra-virgin olive oil, mountain herbs, cheeses, and every ingredient that is served at DUA KAFE is produced, made and shipped from Albania. Bobian and his wife opened DUA KAFE in NYC in hopes to serve delicious healthy food and also to keep the Albanian tradition and authenticity of the cuisine alive! In a country where so many restaurants are owned by Albanians who don't serve Albanian dishes or carry Albanian products, we were amazed and excited to get to know Bobian! Bobian speaks about his childhood, his immigration journey, creating a business in New York City and the importance of Albanian owned and Albanian invested. He urges Albanian immigrants to purchase our products instead. Full video episode available on IGTV , Instagram: vepra_podcast Enjoy!!!! VEPRA team, XO

Gjoni Sinishta migrated to this country with his family when he was a young man. His dreams of a better future was his main driving force. He has worked over a dozen different jobs to get to the one he truly has a passion for. Gjoni mentions that all of the other jobs he took on played a major role in the business of Real Estate and the selling of Luxury homes. He is joined by his wife Linda Sinishta. Do you have dreams of getting into the real estate business? This one is for you! Full video of episode is available on IGTV instagram: vepra_podcast Enjoy! VEPRA team, XO Thank you @gjoni_sinishta !

Jasmina Cunmulaj is an exemplary young woman, who is aware and deeply grateful for the sacrifices made from her older generation. Proud of her roots, she attribute all of her current success and being accepted into University of Michigan Ann Arbor school of Health to her mother who has worked tirelessly to provide a better future for her family and others who have paved the way, including the likes of Mother Teresa. In this episode we dive into the world of family, education, and history. What does it take to get into University of Michigan Ann Arbor as a young Albanian woman? Tune in and listen to this beautiful story. Thank you Jasmina! instagram: @jascunmulaj

Shpresë was born in an immigration camp— her journey has led her to pursue the things she loves and finds the most joy and fulfillment in. She studied art and business and is currently working in fashion. If you’re thinking of doing the same — this one is for you!!! Shpresa is well educated , fulfilled, accomplished and has an understanding/vision for the future. She is truly connected and in touch with herself and her craft. Beauty and brains combined is a rarity to see and even have access to in the way that we have access to her in this interview. Please ENJOY!!!! Instagram: xoshpresa

From Detroit, MIchigan we traveled to New York City to have an interview with Arselajda Buraku in front of the Empire State building. Arselajda is a model/actress who has been featured in Elle, W Magazine, Purple Fashion, Allure, to name a few and has worked for companies such as Helmut Lang, Marc Jacobs, Sephora, YSL and many many more. Arselajda's journey to the United States was not an easy one, especially making the journey later in life, she had to start from scratch. Her first job was working in a restaurant where she had to wake up at 4am everyday to catch the bus and the train to make it to work on time. She states that she is grateful for this job and that she learned so much about the American culture and work ethic which lead her into landing modeling deals and later venturing into the world of movies. Her story is incredible! Watch and Listen! Enjoy!!! Brought to you by: Cekani Realty Group Cka ka Qellu Designer_Hunting

Gina, with a strong mentality of “if you think it’s going to work, then make it work", took all of her experiences, love for design, creativity and channeled it to building her own brunch place “The Place 2 Be”. By working on creating standard operating procedures, she has a vision to expand throughout the US. A lifelong learner and self proclaimed “researcher” - Gina shares her story and is joined along side her lifelong friend Ornela. Thanks for listening to Gina's episode -- available now on RTSH TANI app airing in Albania/Kosov. --- This episode is sponsored by Cekani Realty Group Designer_Hunting

Introducing Irena, founder of RENAROOTS, a transparent and holistic beauty company made with raw ingredients (immortelle flower) 100% from Albania. After working with the United Nations World Food Programme in the Philippines, Egypt, Ukraine, Liberia, Afghanistan, Armenia and the Colombian-Venezuelan border where Irena saw the beauty and the ugly, the surreal contrast of desperation and hope. In her ten years living out of a suitcase, hopping from one emergency to another, ‘chasing’ conflicts and typhoons, Irena has seen how hunger and poverty are a vicious cycle, exacerbated primarily by war and natural disasters. After working with the United Nations, Irena decided to create RENAROOTS with Sephora beauty accelerator. This interview is very special and dear to my heart! Sit back, relax, and listen to the behind the scenes audio we recorded for visual/video to air on RTSH3. Follow Irena Loloci on Instagram: @irenaloloci Follow RENAROOTS on Instagram: @renaroots

Jona Babi holds a degree from Stanford in Engineering and an MBA degree from Harvard University. Her dream was to move to America and start a life here. With this dream and aspiration in mind she pushed forward until she found some resolution and success. Jona's journey is one filled with adventure, mystery, hard work, dedication and a lot of love. From Elbasan, Albania to San Francisco!!!! For more information follow Jona Babi on instagram: @jonababi

Merita Dovolani, the author of "Sofra Shqiptare"/ "The Albanian Table" sits down to have an authentic conversation about her childhood upbringing, her immigration from Dibra to Italy and finally to the New York area where she and her family settled to make a home for themselves in the 1980's. Merita has been a stay at home mom for most of her life and noticed that as a community in the United States we were missing an Albanian cookbook in English. Hear her encouraging words as we talk about her journey and how "The Albanian Table" came to be!!! Follow her on Instagram @albaniantable

Joana Kaimi is a violin virtuosa who recently moved to the United States from Albania after having an extensive career there with the National Radio Television Orchestra. She stands out by her high artistic sensitivity and her masterful technique, which have secured her numerous performances and made her the first price recipient in some of the most prestigious world events and festivals such as: Albania - numerous solo and orchestral performance appearances with the National Radio Television Orchestra of Albania. Follow her on Instagram @joanakaimi

We sit down and have an authentic conversation with Filiza Preniqi at the Fisher building in Detroit, Michigan. Filiza is originally born in Kosova, moved with her family to the East coast where she has pursued her many aspirations, including her childhood dream of becoming a model. Listen to her story and her words of advice for going after your dreams! Follow her on Instagram @filiza_ Signed to DMM|PRM London|One.1NewYork|Mademoiselle Paris| The Source Miami

In the latest episode of Vepra Podcast, join us as we talk with Lindita Zeka, Soul Coach extraordinaire. She specializes in combined elements of naturopathy, intuitive body work and muscle response testing to help you find your inner compass and transform your life. Don't miss an episode full of amazing and inspiring stories and advice. -- Follow her on Instagram @lindita_naturalista www.iamlindita.com

In this episode of Vepra we interview Era Gjoni, a recent Business school graduate working in PR. Era is on a relentless pursuit of what aligns with her passions, leading her to create her own organization called "BLOOM" in hopes of inspiring a community. She's an advocate for women's rights and has been at the forefront of this movement in Tirana, Albania. Listen now to hear her story and some inspiring words! -- Follow her on Instagram @eragjoni20 or @bloom.org.al

Today's guest is fun-loving health coach, Iliriana Zeneli. This amazing Bronx-born Albanian woman is a testament to the successes brought on by hard work and dedication. She has found the perfect blend of new science and old Albanian health wisdom that is consistently helping her clients reach their fitness goals. Listen as we sit down and discuss some of the things you may not know about her as well as a more in-depth look at her journey. Get ready for some inspiration! -- You can follow her on Instagram @healthillie or see more on Youtube

We sit down with Kreshnik Jonuzi, Luftar Von Rama, and Charlie Ashkew, the directors + producers of the documentary of the Albanian National Soccer Team - the behind the scenes of this epic stride of the Albanian team making it to the Euros for the first time in history and the conflict of Albanian history.

Albulena, a true beauty inside and out . She and her family moved to Sweden from Kosovo in the early 90s. When she got older she started a career as a model in Sweden, and eventually was found by Fadil Berisha; famous Albanian photographer. She made a name herself but put a pause on her modeling when she became a mother. She has now been back into the fashion world, with hopes to build her own fashion line, and even considering creating a cookbook on Albanian traditional dishes. She is passionate about her family, work life balance, and her culture. We enjoyed talking with her and hope you enjoy her story too. Take a listen. Follow + Share. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

So happy to announce that our next special guest is Katrina Malota, renowned stylist & make up artist in Michigan and around the US. Her story is unique, having migrated to California and then to Michigan, Katrina has had many adventures along the way. She has built loyal relations through the years with those such as Snoop Dog, Robin Thicke, 50 Cent, and her local home town genius Eminem. She is a true visual artist in the industry having worked on countless runway shows from NYC to Paris creating styles for the world's leading fashion designers. Over the past 15 years, Malota's cutting-edge hairstyles & innovative contributions to the world of beauty have been featured in countless fashion and style magazines including a record breaking 4 time Best of the Best Allure Magazine feature. Katrina is a multi faceted multi talented force to be reckoned. Enjoy and be inspired. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Gina, with a mentality of “if you think it’s going to work, then make it work". She took all of her experiences, a love of design, creativity and channeled it to building her own brunch place “The Place 2 Be”. By working on creating standard operating procedures, she has a vision to expand throughout the US. A lifelong learner and self proclaimed “researcher” - Gina shares her story. Thanks for listening. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Fiton is a published photographer in New York. He continues to master his craft and truly loves the energy from the people he captures in photos and the team he works with. His talent grew from his childhood passion of painting and drawing. He has made a name for himself and that didn’t come easy. From Montenegro to NYC he strived and embraced every opportunity to gain experience, to learn, and to build his own identity as a photographer. He gives back to other artists by sharing his knowledge through instagram and his YouTube channel at FitonPhotography. There he shares tutorials, tips, and more on photography. If you are an aspiring photographer take a listen and be inspired to reach your goal. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

We sit down and have an in-depth conversation with Bebe, an empowered and confident woman who has shown that giving back through charity is something we can all do and she is honored to be able to shed a light to those who need it most. Bebe has a beautiful heart and an energy that instantly lights up the whole room, even via Skype. Powerful, yet super practical in finding solutions. She has been at the forefront of gathering Albanians from every community to support charities, and help those in need. Fearless is a way to describe her willingness for life. She almost demands that our most vulnerable population be healed. Take a listen, take the best, and hopefully this inspires you to give and to share. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

A free spirit with a fearless attitude, living life to the fullest adventure, traveling the world and capturing moments through her photography and blogging. Lena shares with us her story, her journey and what’s in store for the future. Listen to her advice on building your dreams, tips on how to pursue a life through adventure as a travel photographer. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

“One thing is common, a mothers love is extraordinary and often times defies the fabrics of reality. All mothers have remarkable stories and on this day we are honored to share a heartfelt interview filled with harmony, love, heart break, obstacles and opportunity. Mother’s Day special: Bato Shehaj’s story. Having spent 20 years connecting millions of people around the world at the post office, Bato spread the seed of safety, connectivity and family on many levels not truly Comprehendible during these times. This may have been a challenge, but her biggest challenge of all was the fight for her child’s life, winning the battle and her journey to America.”

In this episode we will learn how Daniella found her calling through her struggles and was able to save enough money to open her first barber shop in Birmingham, MI. She continued to strive to master her craft and found support in her family along the way, especially her now husband. Together they opened a second men's salon in which they added a fun bar/cocktail area for their clients. How cool is that? She is very passionate about her clients and their needs. Despite her down-to-earth personality, Daniella is a force to be reckoned with. Listen now to her her story.

We met Cindy Marina virtually to talk about her journey to Miss Albania 2019 and being the Top 20 Finalist at the Miss Universe pageant. We also get to learn what the future holds for this gorgeous and bright young woman. She is a student athlete and a member of the National Albanian Volleyball team. Her passions and hard work can be seen by her great success. She is an inspiration for young people all around the world and represents her countries Albania and America is such a gracious way. She is also an advocate to stop pollution in Albania and around the world, and believes we need to take steps now to reverse climate change. She is already making strides by being a part of Surfrider, GreenLine, and Pacific Whale Foundation. Her beauty, strength, spirit and positivity is wonderful to see. Check out cindymarina.com. Thanks for Listening! Comment + Follow + Subscribe --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Traveling from Los Angeles to the Shinola Hotel in Detroit, MI for this raw conversation with friends on "Vepra Shqiptare," Tonin is an actor in Hollywood, California, originally from Shkodra, Albania. He has a strong family presence in Michigan, and has come to share his story of how he chose acting as we dig deep to find his happiest moment in life. A true conversation with a young man relentlessly pursing his craft for the long term with a motto of "zero regrets in life." This episode is full of wisdom and outlook for all Albanians in our community pursuing the arts. Tonin's journey to California and beyond will inspire many, not only in our Albanian community but every culture.

Daniela came from Fier, Albania to Ohio and eventually went on to travel the world - to Italy and China. She achieved recognition for her achievements (a 2019 G20 Young Global Changer to name a few) and through her work and education she became a Research Fellow at the Center for International Development's Growth Lab at Harvard University and working with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington D.C. conducting analytical work and research on labor markets, economic polarization, and structural reforms. She has also investigated the macroeconomic effects of the 2008 financial crisis with the Central Bank of Slovenia, and worked as a market research consultant at the Center for Innovation & Growth (Cleveland, Ohio). In 2013, she received an ASIANetwork Freeman Foundation fellowship to conduct field research on the socio-economic effects of urban relocation and demolition in China. She is has vast knowledge about harnessing the power of mathematical modeling, econometric techniques, and behavioral economics to diagnose economic issues and inform effective policy making. Daniela believes that giving back to her country and community in positive and intellectual ways can help the people achieve progress and is hopeful in the Albanian peoples ability to succeed. Subscribe + Follow + Comment | Thanks for listening

Valentina is a force to be reckoned with; a boss babe with a mission. She is the sole creator, designer, entrepreneur, and founder of VAJZË a jewelry line made in Michigan and sold all around the world. Inspired by her Albanian culture and the strong women around her she set out on a journey to follow her passion for styling, and gave women something to make them feel beautiful and strong. She has such a big heart and fierce work ethic. She also makes time to give back to the young girls and women in the community. Website: VAJZË.com IG: @VAJZË Podcast recorded at Farmington CoWork (Downtown Farmington Michigan) Follow, subscribe, and comment Thank you. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

We sit down and get to learn about how this woman pursued her passion, and become an acclaimed couture evening and wedding dress designer for the stars and for the brides who envision that unique and custom look for their fairytale wedding. She made it from Albania to Italy to Michigan and New York, and now her designs are all around the world. Her current passion and talent has been making custom wedding dresses for her clients at her Fashion Store "Katerina Bocci" in Shelby Township, MI. She is the OG boss lady and we were so honored to have her share her story. We look forward to hearing more from her in future podcasts as we believe in her and continue to be inspired by her journey and success. Instagram: @katerinabocci Website: katerinaboccibridal.com Subscribe, Follow, and Comment on Vepra Podcast platforms (instagram, facebook, anchor, spotify) Thank you for listening, we appreciate your support. Music: Island by MBB https://soundcloud.com/mbbofficial Creative Commons — Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported— CC BY-SA 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/Island-MBB Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/6by8zhaG04Y