The International Association’s Organic Structure of “Women Alb World”
Organic Structures
The international association’s constituent structures of “Women Alb World” are as follows:
- Committee
- 2) The General Assembly
- 3) Board of experts 4) International board
Shpenda Izairi Abduli
Shpenda Izairi Abduli is a professional with extensive experience in healthcare, management, and social services, and a member of the International Board of Women Alb World (WAW).
Based in Hamburg, Germany, she is the founder and manager of OM&Mi Facility Management & Handwerk, where she leads and coordinates operational projects, teams, and client relations. She brings over a decade of experience as a certified nurse in North Macedonia, with a background in pediatrics, general medicine, and elderly care.
Her profile is strengthened by studies in Business Management and additional training in healthcare-related fields. Known for her organizational and leadership skills, she operates effectively in multicultural environments and contributes actively to WAW’s mission of empowering Albanian women worldwide.
Lumnije Emini
Lumnije Emini is a seasoned educator with over three decades of experience in Switzerland, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Albanian language in the diaspora. A graduate of the University of Prishtina in Primary Education, she has been actively teaching in the Albanian Complementary Language Program since 1992.
She has contributed to key initiatives of the Geneva Department of Public Education (DIP), including the “Open Language School” (EOL), and plays an active role in student integration and mother-tongue assessment. Since 2016, she has been teaching in reception classes at Collège de Montbrillant.
As a Board Member of WAW, she brings strong educational expertise, institutional collaboration, and a deep commitment to community empowerment.
Drita Gjongecaj
Drita Gjongecaj is a distinguished educational leader and diaspora advocate based in the United States, currently serving as Assistant Principal within the New York City Department of Education. She is a recognized expert in bilingual education and the architect of the first Albanian–English dual language program in NYC public schools, contributing significantly to the formal recognition of Albanian as a language of communication with families.
As Founder and President of the Association of Albanian American Dual Language & Culture and Director of the Albanian Heritage School “Children of the Eagle,” she has played a central role in preserving language, identity, and educational access within the Albanian-American community. She is also the initiator of an international scientific seminar on Albanian language teaching in the diaspora.
Holding advanced degrees in Albanian Language and Literature, TESOL, and Educational Leadership, she brings a strong academic and professional foundation to her work.
As a member of the International Board of Women Alb World (WAW), Drita Gjongecaj contributes strategic guidance on education, leadership development, and the empowerment of women and girls across the diaspora.
Remzije Zeka-Sherifi
Remzije Zeka-Sherifi OBE is a distinguished community leader and advocate for cultural integration in Scotland. As co-founder of Albscott and long-standing director of Maryhill Integration Network (MIN) for over 15 years, she has created inclusive and safe spaces that bring communities together and promote the richness of cultural diversity.
Through the arts,including theatre, dance, fashion, and publications.Remzije has driven meaningful dialogue around refugee experiences and social integration. She is the author of “Shadow Behind the Sun”, shortlisted by the Saltire Society, and a pioneer of international theatre productions in Scotland addressing themes of migration and belonging.
Her work has been widely recognized with numerous awards, and in 2023 she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Charles III for her services to refugee integration. In 2024, Social Security Scotland honored her by naming a room after her, reflecting the values of dignity, fairness, and respect that define her contribution.
Fitije Picari International Board Member
Fitije Picari holds a degree in Advanced Zootechnics from the Agricultural University of Tirana, where she built a strong academic foundation before gaining several years of professional experience in the field, including leadership roles.
In 1994, she emigrated to Italy, where she obtained official recognition of her academic qualifications. She subsequently specialized in Property Management and has developed over 25 years of extensive experience in this sector. She is currently a member of ANACI (National Association of Property Administrators) and CEPI, and holds the UNI 10801:2024 professional certification.
Thanks to her continuous professional development and strong commitment to promoting her country of origin, she contributed to the drafting of the legislative framework for the property management profession in Albania. In 2022, she played a key role in facilitating a cooperation agreement between the Municipality of Tirana and ANACI.
Alongside her professional career, Fitije has been actively engaged in social and community initiatives. She is co-founder of the association “Të integrohemi së bashku”, and serves as President of “D.E.A. – Donne Emigrate Albanesi APS”, an organization dedicated to promoting the integration of Albanian women into Italian society. She is also a member of “Donne Libere” and the Friedrich Schürr Institute in Ravenna, Italy.
Furthermore, she is a member of the Institute for National Advancement based in Pristina and part of the editorial board of the newspaper “Rrënjët – Le Radici” in Rome.
Currently, alongside her professional work, she is engaged as a researcher, translator, and promoter of cultural and historical publications. She contributes to writing articles, preparing books by both Albanian and international authors of significance to national historiography, in Albanian and Italian, and collaborates in the publication of numerous literary works.
Estela Ziu-Miano
Director of International Relations, Women Alb World (WAW)
Estela Ziu-Miano is a diaspora Albanian leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate with over 25 years of international experience across media, real estate, business leadership, and nonprofit sectors. Based in Tampa, Florida since 2018, she brings strong strategic vision, cross-cultural competence, and relationship-driven leadership to her role as Director of International Relations at Women Alb World (WAW).
Her career began in journalism and television production, contributing to internationally recognized formats such as Dancing with the Stars and Big Brother, and advancing to senior editorial and leadership roles across print, television, and radio. She later transitioned into executive leadership, serving as Executive Director of Century 21 Albania and subsequently founding her own successful real estate company.
Estela has also collaborated with organizations such as Save the Children and the Albanian Red Cross, focusing on advocacy, research, and community empowerment. In the United States, she continues her entrepreneurial work as a licensed REALTOR®, known for her integrity and negotiation expertise.
Holding advanced degrees in Organizational Psychology, Journalism, Business Administration (MBA), and International Management, and fluent in four languages, Estela is deeply committed to empowering Albanian women in the diaspora. Through her role at WAW, she works to strengthen international partnerships and foster meaningful connections across borders, promoting leadership, inclusion, and sustainable impact.
Besjana Xhani
Besjana Xhani is a seasoned social worker and psychosocial specialist with over 15 years of professional experience in social services, public health, and research. She currently serves as a Member of the Steering Committee and International Board Advisor at Women Alb World (WAW), where she also leads the online support platform “Stop Dhunës,” providing psychosocial counseling and support to Albanian women and youth in Switzerland.
Besjana holds a Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Tirana, with a research focus on quality of life among individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Her academic background also includes a Master’s degree in Qualitative Research in Social Work and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. She is further advancing her expertise through specialized training in systemic therapy and counseling in Heidelberg, Germany.
Her professional trajectory includes leadership roles such as Executive Director of the Center for Social Research on Health Quality in Tirana, where she designed and implemented national awareness and prevention programs, particularly in the field of sexual and reproductive health. She has also contributed as a university lecturer in psychology and worked extensively as a clinical social worker at the University Hospital Center “Mother Teresa” in Tirana.
Besjana’s expertise spans psychosocial counseling, systemic therapy, public health advocacy, and interdisciplinary research. She is recognized for her strong analytical skills, solution-oriented approach, and deep commitment to empowering vulnerable communities. Fluent in Albanian, English, and Italian, with working proficiency in German, she brings a strong intercultural perspective to her work across different
Shyrete Tahiri
Shyrete Tahiri is a wartime survivor from Kosovo and a committed advocate for the rights of survivors of conflict-related violence. Drawing from her personal experience, she has dedicated her life to advancing justice, dignity, and long-term support for survivors, becoming a recognized voice in the field of human rights and transitional justice.
She is an active contributor to the Kosovo Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims (KRCT) and is affiliated with the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT), where she supports rehabilitation, advocacy, and policy initiatives for survivors at both national and international levels.
Shyrete Tahiri serves as a Women Alb World (WAW) Ambassador representing Switzerland, where she promotes the role of women in peacebuilding, justice, and societal transformation within the Albanian diaspora and beyond. She is also engaged with the SEMA Network and contributes to global advocacy efforts inspired by Denis Mukwege, focusing on justice and accountability for survivors of wartime sexual violence.
Currently, she holds the position of Special Envoy for Transitional Justice to the President of Kosovo, playing an important role in advancing reconciliation processes and survivor-centered justice policies.
She has pursued her academic studies in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and is a mother of three children, combining her professional mission with strong personal commitment and resilience.
Zinaida Leskaj
Zinaida Leskaj serves as a Member of the International Board of Women Alb World (WAW) for Albania, bringing a strong background in finance, taxation, and public sector expertise.
She is the founder and lead consultant at Z Accounting and Tax Consulting, where she provides comprehensive accounting, tax advisory, and financial consulting services to businesses and individuals. Her work is defined by a commitment to accuracy, regulatory compliance, and sustainable financial growth. With extensive hands-on experience in bookkeeping, taxation, payroll, and financial planning, she supports clients in navigating complex financial frameworks and developing tailored, strategic solutions.
In parallel, Zinaida contributes her expertise as a Finance and Public Procurement Specialist at OSHEE (Albanian Energy Distribution Operator), where she is involved in financial management and procurement processes within the public sector.
Beyond her professional roles, she is actively engaged in local, international, and diaspora networks. Through her involvement with Women Alb World, she has contributed to the organization of events and the advancement of community-focused initiatives, supporting coordination, hosting, and stakeholder engagement efforts.
Nevila Dudaj
Award-winning hospitality and tourism leader with over 24 years of experience, I serve as the Founder/CEO of Adriatik Tours LLC in the United States and the Owner/General Manager of the historic 5-star Adriatik Hotel in Durres, Albania.
Forbes Business Council Member and contributor
Advisory Board Member at New Haven University, Women Leadership Program
Known for elevating Albania’s global travel profile, I specialize in creating innovative, culturally rich travel experiences that highlight the best of the country’s heritage, coastline, and hospitality.
Representative/Head for Albania at the American Balkan Chamber of Commerce in New York.
As a serial entrepreneur with expertise in management, business development, real estate, sales, marketing, and PR, I bring a strategic and visionary approach to every project. Beyond my professional work, I am deeply committed to women’s empowerment, mentoring women, amplifying their voices, and creating opportunities for leadership, independence, and growth.
My mission is to work alongside WAW to empower women, ignite the next generation of leaders, and help elevate Albania as a world-class travel destination.
My official profile : www.neviladudaj.com
Venesa Sulimani
Member of the International Board, Women Alb World (WAW) – Canada
Venesa Sulimani is a dedicated professional based in Canada, with a strong commitment to community engagement, social development, and the empowerment of women within the Albanian diaspora and beyond. Her professional and civic contributions reflect a consistent focus on advocacy, inclusion, and capacity-building initiatives.
She has been actively involved in community-driven projects and organizational initiatives that aim to strengthen social cohesion and provide support systems for women and families. Through her work, she has contributed to fostering collaboration between diaspora networks and local institutions, promoting cultural identity while addressing contemporary social challenges.
As a Member of the International Board of Women Alb World (WAW), Venesa Sulimani plays a strategic role in representing the organization in Canada. She supports the development of partnerships, facilitates outreach within the Albanian community, and contributes to advancing WAW’s mission on an international scale.
Her engagement is driven by a clear vision: to empower women through access to opportunities, strengthen their voice in society, and create sustainable support structures that respond to their needs with professionalism and integrity.
Sevim Berzati
Member of the International Board, Women Alb World (WAW) – North Macedonia
Sevim Berzati is a qualified lawyer, having graduated in 2006, with solid expertise in public institutions and local government administration. She has built a diverse professional career, including five years of experience as an external associate at the Public Broadcasting Service of the Republic of North Macedonia, where she worked in the monitoring sector.
She further strengthened her institutional background through her role at the Ministry of Culture in Skopje, serving as a legal officer within the strategic sector, contributing to policy-oriented processes and administrative governance.
For the past four years, she has been serving as Coordinator in the Cabinet of the Mayor of the Municipality of Tetovo. In this position, she holds significant institutional responsibility, actively fostering cooperation with organizations that support women affected by domestic violence and other forms of abuse. Her role involves facilitating partnerships, ensuring coordinated responses, and strengthening local mechanisms for protection and empowerment.
Sevim Berzati’s professional path is guided by a strong personal mission: to serve as a reliable support system for women in need—offering guidance, advocacy, and assistance with professionalism, empathy, and unwavering dedication.
Blerta Berisha Morina
Concetta Rosetta Mazzei
Ambassador, Women Alb World (WAW)
Cettina Mazzei is an educator, visual artist, and cultural activist of Arbëreshë origin from Caraffa di Catanzaro, Italy. With over 30 years of experience, she has been actively engaged in preserving and promoting Arbëreshë language, identity, and cultural heritage.
She holds a diploma in Scenography from the Academy of Fine Arts and has served as a teacher of Art Education, Drawing, and Art History, alongside key roles in educational projects and institutional collaboration.
Mazzei is the founder and organizer of numerous cultural initiatives dedicated to linguistic minorities, including festivals, exhibitions, and educational programs. Her work has been recognized with several national and international honors, including distinctions from the Presidents of Kosovo and the Italian Chamber of Deputies, as well as the title of “Ambassador of the Albanian Nation.”
She serves as an Ambassador of Women Alb World (WAW), contributing to the promotion of Albanian culture and the empowerment of women globally.
Aida Haziri – London, United Kingdom
Aida Haziri is an experienced Albanian language educator, trainer, and community leader with over 23 years of teaching experience. She holds degrees in Albanian Language and Literature, as well as in English Language and World Literature.
She is the Founder and CEO of the British-Albanian Women Association (BAWA) in the UK and a member of the International Board of Women Alb World (WAW) in Geneva. She also serves on the board of the Anglo-Albanian Association.
Professionally, Aida is an Albanian Language Professor at the FCDO Language Centre and a tutor at International House London. She previously contributed to the British Museum as a representative of the Albanian community.
A committed activist and public speaker, her work focuses on empowering women—particularly within migrant communities—to build confidence, preserve cultural identity, and integrate successfully.
Reyhan Şerif
Reyhan Şerif is an EU project expert with over 15 years of experience in public administration and international cooperation. She has been working at Bursa Yıldırım Municipality since 2008, leading and contributing to projects focused on gender equality, local development, environmental sustainability, and employment.
She holds a degree in American Culture and Literature and has extensive training in project management and quality systems. Reyhan has collaborated with international organizations and networks, including UNHCR and NALAS, on cross-border initiatives.
Fluent in Turkish, Albanian, and English, she operates effectively in multicultural environments.
As a member of the International Board of Women Alb World (WAW), she contributes her expertise in project development and institutional partnerships to support women’s empowerment and global engagement.
Xhesika Banushi
Xhesika Banushi is a Statistician and certified Project Manager (PMA Level D), currently serving as a member of the International Board of Women Alb World (WAW). She works at a research institute in Vienna, contributing to international projects at the intersection of economic research, public policy, and social impact.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Marketing, and is currently completing a Master’s degree in European Studies, with a focus on EU project management and funding programs. Her professional expertise includes EU-funded initiatives, data analysis, stakeholder coordination, and the application of AI-driven tools to enhance research processes and project efficiency.
Originally from Albania and based in Austria, Xhesika brings experience from multicultural and international environments. She actively supports initiatives that promote women’s professional development, leadership, and integration.
Nermine Aliji Ademi
Nermine Aliji Ademi comes from the Municipality of Bujanovac, Presheva Valley. She is a lawyer and philologist by profession. She completed her studies in Law and Albanian Language at the University of Pristina in 2012/2013.
She worked for a long time in the civil sector, engaging in many projects, and in January 2017 she founded the organization Center for the Advancement of Youth and Women – QARG, which aims to improve the position of young people and women through informal education and their economic empowerment.
She also worked as a collaborator of the OSCE office in Bujanovac in the implementation of several local projects, and for five years she worked for the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Serbia as an expert for the compilation of the matura exam and as an editor of task summaries for matura test preparation.
In July 2020, she was appointed Secretary of the Municipal Assembly in Bujanovac, becoming the first woman ever to hold this position, a role she exercised from 2020 to 2024. Her engagement in the public sector of local government never prevented her from continuing various activities in cooperation with local civil society organizations, carrying out a series of initiatives for women and young people in the community.
In September 2023, she translated her first book from Serbian to Albanian, entitled How to Cope with the Death of Our Loved Ones. In 2025, she became a certified sworn translator for the Serbian–Albanian language pair. Since September 2025, supported by the Chevening Scholarship, she has begun her Master’s studies in LLM International Human Rights Law at Brunel University London.
She is communicative, flexible, and always open to cooperation in any project that aims to improve the position of Albanian women, strengthen their economic empowerment, and build their capacities to participate in public and social life as important actors in decision-making processes.