My Europe – Albania

‘My Europe’ is an interactive digital series of events that invites its guests to discover Europe.

How does it work? It’s simple: We talk to young people from various countries about Europe and their personal topics of interest. The topics are as diverse as the speakers and can range from current political and social developments through culture and science to one’s own commitment to greater tolerance or solidarity. In addition to the given topic, all participants can also vote live on other topics and ask questions on the evening itself.

On 24th September, Redi Asabella will take the audience on a virtual journey to Albania. Redi was born in the city of Korça, in southeast Albania — often referred to as one of the cradles of Albanian culture. He later on moved to Tirana to study Administration and Social Policy at the University of Tirana and subsequently earned a second degree in French and Spanish Language and Literature from Sapienza University of Rome. He has always been interested in the topics of inclusive education, cultural dialogue, and youth empowerment.

One of Redi’s pivotal career points is The Giufà Project, an initiative that uses community theatre and storytelling to promote social inclusion and intercultural understanding. Together with the team, over the years, they have worked with more than 2000 people in over 10 countries. In 2022, the project was awarded the European Charlemagne Youth Prize for Italy, a recognition to its impact on grassroots cultural activism. Redi has worked extensively in civil society organizations that promote advocacy and development projects in rural areas, supporting young people’s participation in shaping inclusive policy. Currently, he is preparing to begin the Erasmus Mundus International Master’s in Inclusive Education Sciences in France, Italy, and Switzerland.

He also serves on the Executive Board of the European Charlemagne Youth Prize Alumni Network and has been part in WB regional initiatives like the Swedish Institute Leader Lab and Creative Leaders Academy implemented by the British Council. In his free time, Redi enjoys hiking, camping, and cycling — always with music playing in the background.

On 24th September, Redi will give a short introductory overview of Albania and discuss Albanian culture, particularly against the background of the EU candidate status. Redi will then reflect on inclusion as a continuous process, drawing from his work in non-formal education and his hopes for a Europe that listens more closely to its young voices.

The moderator is Henri Schlund, freelance journalist.

Please find the zoom link and register via EUROPE DIRECT Aachen’s webpage: My Europe – Albania-Mein Europa

The series of events is free of charge and is organized by a large network: Institut Français Aachen, Karlspreisstiftung, Karlspreis Academy, and the EUROPE DIRECT centres from Aachen, Kreis Gütersloh, Dortmund, Duisburg, Essen and Bocholt.