In the framework of the project “Leadership is for EveryOne” was organized the networking event “Empowering youth of Lezha region through youth mobility and support of Youth Social Entrepreneurship Initiatives” in collaboration with Lezha Municipality and the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO).
The event brought together distinguished speakers and key stakeholders to discuss various strategic approaches and programs aimed at strengthening youth engagement, enhancing employment opportunities, and promoting social entrepreneurship among young people in the Lezha region.
Keynote addresses and discussions
Integration of young people in the labor market
Mr. Elson Marku, the Head of the Directory of Strategic Projects, Europe, Migration, Diaspora, Communication, and Transparency at Lezha Municipality, elaborated on the municipality’s policies designed to facilitate the integration of young individuals into the labor market.
Support for youth empowerment and employment
Mr. Nikolin Shtjefni, heading the Directory of Education, Youth, and Sports at Lezha Municipality, presented the municipality’s political stance on youth empowerment and employment support.
Government programs for youth economic empowerment
The Head of the Regional Directorate of the National Agency of Employment and Skills introduced various government initiatives aimed at economically empowering the youth through support in establishing new businesses.
Presentation of RYCO and Regional Youth Programs
Mrs. Ardita Bonatti, a Project Manager at RYCO, provided insights into RYCO’s role and the youth programs being conducted in the region.
The Role of CSOs in youth empowerment
Mrs. Alma Lahe, a Project Manager at Together for Life association (TFL), discussed the crucial role civil society organizations play in youth empowerment.
Erasmus Program and Youth Mobility
Blertina Koka, Program Manager for the youth program at TFL, highlighted the mobility and cooperation opportunities available for young people in the Balkan Region, Europe, and worldwide through the Erasmus Program.
Spotlight on social entrepreneurs
Mrs. Ardita Bonatti, also the RISE Project Manager, shared success stories and the emergence of a new generation of Social Entrepreneurs in Albania.
From Idea to Business Plan
The event concluded with a focus on the journey of a social enterprise from conception to the formulation of a simple business plan, and the type of guidance that should be provided by trainers, coaches, and mentors.
Conclusion
The networking event marked a significant step towards empowering the youth in the Lezha region. The discussions and presentations underscored the collaborative efforts of government bodies, non-profit organizations, and educational programs in fostering an environment conducive to youth development and entrepreneurship. The insights shared by the guest speakers provided valuable perspectives on the multifaceted approach required to support the youth, highlighting the importance of mobility, skills development, and entrepreneurial support.
Recommendations
Following the event, several recommendations were proposed to build upon the momentum generated:
- Enhance collaboration between municipal bodies and youth organizations to develop targeted employment programs.
- Expand access to entrepreneurial training and mentoring for young individuals.
- Encourage participation in the Erasmus Program to leverage international knowledge exchange and networking.
- Support the establishment of a framework for social enterprises, facilitating their growth from nascent ideas to viable business ventures.
