Our People
The people who direct and deliver Roma Versitas Albania's work. We publish those serving now alongside those who served before them.
Current team
-
Emiliano Aliu is a distinguished advocate for Roma rights and currently serves as the Executive Director of Roma Versitas Albania. He holds a Bachelor of Laws and a Master’s degree in International & European Law from the European University of Tirana. His academic and professional background reflects a deep commitment to legal advocacy, education, and Roma empowerment.
Emiliano’s career spans multiple key roles in Roma civil society. He has worked as a legal consultant for various organizations and, in 2013, contributed as a Local Consultant for the OSCE/ODIHR project “Best Practices for Roma Integration.” He has also served as a Romani language translator and lecturer at the University of Elbasan. Additionally, he held the role of Roma Coordinator and Protection from Discrimination Facilitator at the Institution of the People’s Advocate for over two years. From 2019 to 2023, he served as Deputy Chairman of the Rrogozhina Municipality Council, playing an active role in local governance and policy development. His expertise spans human rights, constitutional law, and international relations, underscoring his dedication to advancing the rights and well-being of the Roma community.
Since 2016, as Executive Director of Roma Versitas Albania, Emiliano has led initiatives to empower Roma youth through education and capacity-building programs. His leadership is instrumental in tackling key challenges faced by the Roma community, including housing, employment, education, and political representation. His unwavering dedication to fostering inclusion and equality continues to drive positive change within Albania and across Europe.
-
Mr. Franko Veliu is a dedicated activist and advocate for education and inclusion, committed to empowering the Roma community in Albania. He is an alumnus of the Roma Versitas Albania scholarship program and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Administration and Social Policy from the Faculty of Social Sciences in Tirana. His personal experience within the education system has shaped his strong commitment to breaking down barriers faced by Roma students and ensuring equal access to learning opportunities. As a former Executive Director of Amaro-Drom, Franko has played a key role in advancing educational initiatives for Roma youth. He has actively contributed to the EU Regional Action for Roma Education (RARE) – Phase II, supporting the expansion of educational access and strengthening support networks across the Western Balkans. His leadership in these initiatives has contributed to improved community engagement, policy development, and advocacy efforts aimed at long-term, systemic change. Beyond his leadership roles in organizations, Franko is deeply engaged in mentorship programs, where he guides and inspires young Roma students to overcome social and institutional barriers. His work focuses on building self-confidence, resilience, and pride in Roma identity, equipping the next generation with the tools needed for academic and professional success. Driven by a strong commitment to community development and educational equity, Franko remains an active voice in promoting inclusion and fair representation. Through his ongoing advocacy, he strives to contribute to a society where every individual, regardless of background, has the opportunity to grow, contribute, and lead.
Past team
-
Xhenson Çela
Secretary General
Sept 2017 – Aug 2024
Mr. Xhenson Çela is the Secretary-General at Roma Versitas Albania, bringing a strong background in public policy, law, and advocacy for Roma and other marginalized communities. He holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy and a Law degree from Central European University. During his academic journey, he was actively engaged in several local and international organizations focused on human rights, social inclusion, and community development for both Roma and non-Roma communities. His early professional experience includes internships at the Ombudsman Office and the Regional Employment Office in Tirana, where he gained practical insight into public administration and institutional processes. Prior to joining Roma Versitas Albania, he worked as an Employment Expert for the UNDP ESERE Project (Economic and Social Empowerment of the Roma and Egyptian Communities) in Albania, contributing to initiatives aimed at improving employment opportunities for marginalized groups. In addition to his project-based work, Mr. Çela has delivered legal tutoring in employment law for students in social science and law faculties. His professional background spans multiple initiatives in education, employment, and access to justice, where he has served as a project officer and coordinator. Through these roles, he has contributed to the design and implementation of programs aimed at creating sustainable employment pathways, improving access to services, and supporting policy reform. Mr. Çela is deeply committed to human rights, housing, employment, and capacity-building initiatives. He continues to advocate for inclusive policies that ensure equal opportunities and access for all, with a particular focus on marginalized and underrepresented communities.
-
Mrs. Subashi serves as the Administrative and Financial Officer at Roma Versitas Albania, where she plays a crucial role in managing the organization’s financial and administrative operations. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting from the University of Tirana, which she earned in 2015, followed by a Master of Science in Accounting and Audit in 2017. Further enhancing her professional qualifications, she obtained a Professional Accountant certification in 2020. Before joining Roma Versitas Albania, Mrs. Subashi built a strong career in finance and accounting, working with various institutions where she developed expertise in financial reporting systems, cost and management accounting, financial planning, profit and loss analysis, and project budget preparation and assessment. Her work has focused on ensuring financial accuracy, compliance with regulatory frameworks, and the effective allocation of resources to maximize organizational efficiency. At Roma Versitas Albania, she is responsible for overseeing budget planning, financial reporting, and compliance with donor requirements, ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial processes. She works closely with the leadership team to support the organization’s strategic goals, particularly in securing and managing funding for educational and capacity-building programs that empower Roma youth. With a strong background in financial management and auditing, Mrs. Subashi brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, contributing to the organization’s mission of fostering education, inclusion, and professional development within the Roma community. Her dedication to precision, financial integrity, and strategic planning makes her a vital asset to the organization.
-
Klaudia Veizaj is a distinguished architect, human rights advocate, and cultural heritage expert committed to empowering communities and preserving cultural identities. She holds an MSc in Architecture and Urban Design from Polis University, as well as an MA in Cultural Heritage: Research, Management, and Policy from Central European University in Vienna. Her engagement in advocacy began in 2012 with the Political Roma Academy, making her one of the first Roma activists in Albania. In recognition of her impactful work, she was awarded “Volunteer of the Year” in 2014 by the Institute of Romani Culture in Albania. Among her most notable initiatives is the use of public art to raise awareness about the “Forgotten Holocaust.” In 2018, her concept was selected among more than 50 international artists at MurAl Fest to create a mural in Tirana featuring the “16 May – Romani Resistance” emblem, honoring Roma resistance during the Holocaust and highlighting Roma history and struggles. Since 2013, Klaudia has been actively involved in the Dikh He Na Bister – Roma Genocide Remembrance Initiative, progressing from participant to group leader, facilitator, and ultimately head of the educational team. She has developed educational materials, led training sessions, and coordinated international events, including the 80th Anniversary of the European Roma Genocide Remembrance Day on 2 August. Her professional experience includes roles as Project Manager at the Roma Women Rights Center in Albania, Architectural Designer, and Research Architect. Her expertise covers human rights education, gender equality, intersectionality, history, remembrance, identity, and non-profit project management. She has collaborated with institutions such as the Council of Europe, contributing to research, training, and capacity-building initiatives. A committed advocate for inclusion, Klaudia works to combat discrimination, empower youth, amplify underrepresented voices, and foster cross-cultural understanding across Europe.
