About Us
Building a sustainable youth ecosystem in the Balkans.
Our Mission
Balkan Youth Activism (BYA) is committed to empowering, mobilizing, and connecting young people across Albania and the Western Balkans by promoting civic participation, human rights, education, innovation, and intercultural dialogue.
We create inclusive spaces where every young person — regardless of background, ability, or social circumstances — can develop their potential, actively participate in community life, and become a driver of positive social change.
Through non-formal education, volunteering, advocacy, and international cooperation, BYA supports young people in becoming active citizens, future leaders, and contributors to sustainable community development.
Our Vision
Balkan Youth Activism (BYA) envisions a society where young people are empowered, valued, and fully engaged in social, economic, and democratic life.
We strive for a Western Balkans region where youth collaborate beyond borders, embrace diversity, and contribute to peaceful, democratic, and sustainable communities.
Our vision is to nurture a generation of globally minded, socially responsible, and active young people who lead with values, solidarity, and a shared commitment to a better future.
Core Values
Transparency
Open governance and accountability in all our actions.
Inclusion
Leaving no one behind, regardless of background or ability.
Diversity
Celebrating the rich cultural mosaic of the Balkans.
Participation
Active engagement in democratic processes.
Sustainability
Promoting eco-friendly practices and long-term impact.
Our Team
Meet the dedicated professionals behind our impact.
MSc Gurali Haxhillari
Executive DirectorBackground in Culture, Media, and Editing. Experienced in project management.
Gurali has over 8 years of experience in youth leadership and advocacy. He specializes in strategic planning and has successfully managed numerous EU-funded projects impacting thousands of young people.
MSc Eriketa Kocollari
Youth Worker & CoordinatorSpecialized in Ethics and Leadership with tourism experience.
Eriketa is a certified youth trainer with a passion for non-formal education. She leads our local engagement initiatives and coordinates volunteer programs.
MSc Dejvi Hoxha
Youth Policy ProfessionalHead of Korca Youth Centre, background in municipal governance.
Dejvi brings vital institutional knowledge and policy expertise, bridging the gap between grassroots youth work and local government strategies.
PhD Ilir Shyta
Lecturer & TrainerWriter and Journalist specialized in Balkan Literature.
Ilir combines academic rigor with creative expression, mentoring young writers and journalists to foster critical thinking and media literacy.
MSc Milena Zhuti
Teacher & Community AdvocateSpecialized in Social Philosophy.
Milena focuses on inclusion and social philosophy, working directly with marginalized communities to ensure their voices are heard.
Esmerald Xhafa
Legal ProfessionalLawyer with expertise in criminal law and institutional management.
Esmerald ensures our organizational compliance and provides legal guidance on human rights projects and advocacy campaigns.
Institutional Cooperation & Stakeholder Engagement
BYA collaborates with key institutional and community partners to ensure sustainability and impact, including:
- University "Fan S. Noli" – Academic collaboration and youth research.
- Korça Municipality – Initiatives on youth participation and inclusion.
- "Ymer Dishnica" High School – Youth empowerment and educational outreach.
- "Shoqëria e Doktrinës së Krishtere" Private High School – Non-formal learning and cultural cooperation.
- Other local youth centers, NGOs, and cultural associations supporting civic engagement and regional development.
- Proven capacity to act as a link between local actors and international partners for project implementation and sustainability.