Inclusion and Economic Empowerment in the Western Balkans (SOE10)

The German government will support the economic development of five of the Western Balkan countries, namely, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, and Serbia to improve living conditions of marginalized, vulnerable groups in the Western Balkans through programs through capacity building, learning and innovation with and amongst intermediary institutions and cross-border cooperation.

Help will implement the regional project “Inclusion and Economic Empowerment in the Western Balkans” throughout the year 2023 until the end of 2024.

The overall goal of the program is to contribute to the reduction of social and economic exclusion of vulnerable groups in the Western Balkans region through economic empowerment and supporting the social-economic inclusion of vulnerable groups.

Objective 1: Regional cooperation and development

Objective 2: Conditions for new jobs created through the Green Growth Grants scheme and appropriate capacity-building training

Objective 3: Contribute to better resocialization of convicts in prison systems through working engagement and capacity building of convicts and employees of the Correctional Institutions

Objective 4: local community initiatives to support improved access and inclusion of vulnerable categories

Project components that will be implemented in Kosovo that will lead to the inclusion and economic empowerment of vulnerable groups are:

  • Green Growth Grants enhancing development, digital and green economy with a focus on entrepreneurship and green practices
  • Provision of business and vocational trainings
  • Training and resocialization programs in correctional institutions
  • Support workshops within the Kosovo Correctional Service
  • Start-up support for former convicts
  • Community-level initiatives to improve the living conditions of vulnerable groups and advance the inclusion of vulnerable social groups
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Donikë Beqiri – RECONOMY Intervention Officer

Donikë Beqiri recently joined the Help – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe team in May, assuming the role of Reconomy Intervention Officer. With over 5 years experience in the civil society sector, she has refined her expertise in research and project coordination, particularly focusing on sustainable development and the Green Agenda. Notably, she led the coordination of the 6th edition of Kosovo Sustainable Development Week, demonstrating her adeptness in managing multifaceted initiatives. Her portfolio includes successfully coordinating projects supported by esteemed organizations such as the EU Office, GIZ, USAID, and UNDP, showcasing her ability to navigate diverse partnerships and funding landscapes.

Donikë holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and is currently furthering her education through a Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of York, specializing in Public Administration and Management. Her academic pursuits complement her practical experience, enriching her understanding of governance and organizational dynamics.
Fluent in both Albanian (her native language) and English, Donikë also possesses a basic proficiency in German and Italian.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Donikë indulges her passions for pilates, hiking, and photography.

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Empowering Youth and Adults through CNC Mechanics and 3D Design for Industry with BONEVET

Today, on the 25th of September 2023, Help Mission in Kosovo signed a partnership agreement with BONEVET Gjakova for the implementation of the “Empowering Youth and Adults through CNC Mechanics and 3D Design for Industry” Project.
The project aims to address the increased need for skills development and employment opportunities in the Gjakova region. Promoting economic growth and community development can be achieved by providing participants with desirable skills and facilitating their integration into local industries. This approach can effectively diminish unemployment rates while also addressing the heightened demand for skilled workers within these sectors.
Support will be offered to the youth of the Gjakova region without distinction, through the building of personal and professional skills as well as their economic empowerment. Within the project, 35-40 young people will be supported in their goals to acquire CNC mechanics and 3D industrial design skills.
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