By: Shqipe Malushi
As I was strolling down 8th Avenue in New York City, I found myself standing in front of the New Yorker Hotel—a place where I had worked as Executive Director for over five years with the Albanian American Women’s Organization (AAWO). Our mission was to help Albanian refugee women integrate into American life.
I stepped into the lobby, took a seat, and let my memories flood back. Twenty years ago, we began with a single office room rented in the hotel, two employees—me and assistant Vjollca Hajdari Jakupi—and a $100,000 budget from the Office of Refugee Resettlement. Within five years, we exceeded a million-dollar budget.
The organization grew rapidly: from one office to three, from two employees to sixteen, with 22 annual programs and events. We launched a monthly magazine, Shpresa (Hope); a half-hour weekly women’s TV cable program; senior and youth programs; domestic violence support; cultural and educational initiatives; a tragedy fund; a scholarship fund—and so much more. The office buzzed with energy, brought to life by interns, volunteers, and strong community networks.
The stars of AAWO were many. Founder Shqipe Biba, first President Hane Selmani, and the following President Dr. Anna Kohen led with vision, passion and commitment, always in the public eye. But in my heart, I hold just as dearly the quiet champions—the ones behind the scenes who worked tirelessly, never seeking recognition or reward.
Shpresa Xhakli
Lifetime member of AAWO from day one, she was the pillar of unwavering support. Her presence affirmed our mission. She and her late husband Rexh Xhakli gave generously of their time, finances, and care—always going above and beyond to lift others. Today she is a champion in promoting understanding autism globally.
Zana Dobroshi
A decades-long board member of AAWO “Motrat Qiriazi,” Zana never missed a meeting or event. Her contributions were both financial and deeply personal. She offered free counseling to refugees and immigrants in need, lifting spirits with her gentle, progressive vision of unity among Albanians.
Lule Pula
A devoted member and board member for over two decades, Lule never missed an event. She gave her time and resources freely, always offering a listening ear and progressive ideas that made others feel safe and supported.
Alda Mosko
To me, Alda was the engine of AAWO. As an intellectual she carried the weight of communications, event coordination, board development, donor outreach, and partnerships with U.S.-based nonprofits. A loving mother and devoted daughter, she brought her elderly parents to every event—always blending family and service.
Violeta Bitici
A devoted member and silent giver, Violeta never sought applause. Even today, on her one day off, she buys groceries for senior citizens, delivers them personally, and sits to listen—holding their hands, honoring their stories.
Eugenia Bajrami
A quiet, solitary walker, Eugenia was a committed member for decades. With her pen, she gave voice to the voiceless. Her stories in Illyria newspaper created a powerful, positive narrative of refugee and immigrant women—transforming impossibilities into dreams.
Dardanesha Andoni
A literary professional who joined us later in life, Dardanesha brought linguistic elegance and editorial mastery to Shpresa. Her work reached Albanian women across the globe—from Europe to Australia—carrying their stories with dignity.
Elmira Muja
A vibrant journalist, Elmira braved rain, heat, and rejection to tell our stories. She led the AAWO weekly TV cable program, representing our cause with professionalism. She was the voice of Albanian women in the tri-state area—and the world took notice.
Valbona Thaqi
AAWO trusting bookkeeper.A poet, artist, and professional with a deep vision of humanity, Valbona—herself a refugee—broke through every barrier with integrity and grace. A compassionate listener and fearless voice, she stood tall through life’s challenges, raising her daughters with pride. Today, she continues to paint, write, and cherish time with her grandchildren
Loreta Stamo
A decades-long board member, Loreta was a tech visionary and selfless champion of women’s education. She helped youth secure scholarships and taught us how to integrate technology into every part of our work. No matter her family responsibilities, she was always a call away.
Drita Shkurti
A quiet, loving, and ever-caring board member, Drita never missed a meeting and was always present with a warm smile and supportive heart. She reminded us to care for ourselves amidst the work, offering gentle encouragement and unwavering positivity to everyone involved.
Agathia Lluka
Though she joined later, Agathia remained a steadfast presence on the board. She was a dedicated support to the President, known for her precision, promptness, and quiet efficiency that helped keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.
Kino Gara
A beloved singer in the Albanian diaspora, Kino never said no. He performed at every fundraiser and celebration for free, rekindling memories of home with his voice. We danced, sang, cried, and remembered our roots together.
Arberie Hetemi
With a nightingale’s voice, Arberie stood by us from her early twenties. Eager to learn and ready to serve, she became indispensable. Even when her health demanded care, she never stopped bringing joy to our events.
Ana Marky Walsh
Always joyful and generous, Ana adorned our events with her handmade jewelry, encouraging women to see the beauty in themselves and each other. She donated pieces for every fundraiser and hosted summer events in her backyard to help sick children. On her free days, she serves lunch at homeless shelters.
Anila Jaho
An artist, designer, and devoted volunteer, Anila quietly created with love. She designed Shpresa magazine, event flyers, and promotional materials, adding joy and light to everything she touched—with her smile always leading the way.
Adem Belliu
One of our most dedicated cable TV producers, Adem was a fixture at every AAWO event. With his camera in hand, he documented the living history of the Albanian American community and gave lasting voice to the women of AAWO.
Kumrije (Kathy) & Bruno Selimaj
Always present on every occasion, they witnessed both our celebrations and our grief. Kathy offered countless hours in support of community women, while Bruno welcomed Albanians of all backgrounds at his restaurant. There, over shared meals and conversation, we found unity and hope.
There were so many more—Venera Bekteshi, Albiona Reçica working bees, always supportive Illyria Newspaper, Fadil Berisha Studio, Merita Halili & Raif Hyseni, Aurela Gace, Inva Mula, Ardit Gjebrea, Kastriot Tusha, Manjolla Nallbani and countless entertainers, other volunteers, lawyers, doctors, and restaurant owners, —whose selfless dedication shaped those golden years. Their energy kept us connected, bridging cultural and regional differences with one shared language and one dream: unity.
In Loving Memory of Those We Lost
Let us never forget the ones who are no longer with us:
Rexh Xhakli, whose generosity was boundless and whose soul embodied the spirit of giving.
Shaqir Gashi, the beloved father figure of our community, who nourished countless Albanians with food and kindness at his restaurant.
Lirie Erbeli, our first teacher and a lifelong member whose wisdom guided many.
Sylejman Gashi, a committed journalist who used his voice for the cause of justice and community.
Their legacies live on in our hearts and in the foundation, they helped build.
Times have changed. But these silent, selfless champions live on in my heart. I honor them today with deep gratitude—for all they gave, all they did, and all they continue to inspire in our memories. Thank you.
