Connecting Kosovars Abroad with Their Homeland

Alumni, College/University Partners, UWC High Schools, Politics & Law, Social Impact, Interview/Profile

Connecting_Kosovars

As the Republic of Kosovo’s deputy minister for foreign affairs and diaspora, “my key priority is to strengthen the connection between Kosova and its diaspora communities globally,” writes Liza Gashi (Kosovo, UWC Costa Rica, Wartburg ’13), who uses the Albanian spelling “Kosova” for her homeland. 

“I lead efforts in public diplomacy, economic diplomacy, and diaspora engagement,” she explains. “Under my leadership, we have successfully developed and implemented strategic tools and policies to ensure the active involvement of the diaspora in Kosova’s development.”

“I have also been a driving force behind global diaspora engagement initiatives, ensuring that the contributions and voices of our people abroad are fully recognized and integrated into Kosova’s national agenda,” adds Liza, who earned a master’s degree in public administration at Arizona State. “One notable initiative we have spearheaded is the ‘Diaspora Dialogues,’ a platform to engage diaspora communities worldwide and encourage their active participation in Kosova’s growth.”

Other initiatives Liza has led, aiming to strengthen the links between her country and the world, include a Citizen Diplomacy Fellowship, connecting young professionals with the homeland; Made in Kosova (made-in-kosova.net), which showcases the country’s economic and cultural potential; ShijoKosoven, connecting young Kosovars abroad with what’s happening in the country; and Ulpiana Forum (ulpianaforum.org), an international project “dedicated to harnessing the collective power of disapora communities.” Liza also founded the National Committee of Kosova for UWC.

“After emerging from war in 1999, Kosova had few established governance structures and limited experience with democracy,” she notes. “We had to start from scratch, learning together how to adapt and succeed. Today, I am actively contributing to Kosova’s efforts to strengthen democracy, leveraging the skills and knowledge I gained through my education.”

This profile is part of the “Graduates in Action” series from the 2025 Annual Report.

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