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.
🎧 Tune in — and join me on this journey through America’s democracy in action.
Love,
Vepra Team
<3
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!
<3
Vepra Team
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 <3
Vepra Team
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
<3
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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
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.
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This episode is sponsored by
Cekani Realty Group
Designer_Hunting
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.
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Follow her on Instagram @lindita_naturalista
www.iamlindita.com
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!
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You can follow her on Instagram @healthillie or see more on Youtube