Ema Hila while being interviewed, source here |
Ema Hila is an Albanian American residing in Florida. She is 17 years old and is participating in the "Miss Albania" 2023 competition.
As an active member of the Diaspora, I naturally feel proud that these Albanian girls, even though they are growing up in America, go back to their roots and never forget them.
Ms. Hila, how old were you when you came to America, and what was your childhood like?
Hello, I came to America when I was only 10 years old, and from that moment, my childhood changed completely. From a "playful" and traditional childhood, it turned into a more "laid-back" and calm one. Of course, like anyone who comes to America, I felt the deep change, but thanks to my family and their dedication, this phase of life was not a "trauma" for me. Despite this change on two different continents, my childhood was the same as any child my age.
Ema Hila at the fashion show (archive) |
You are only 17 years old, but you have a rich portfolio in the fashion industry in the United States. Please tell us about your artistic career.
How much time do you dedicate to this field, and how do you manage to excel as a high school student in Florida?
Never before have I had to balance my involvement in modeling, cheerleading, and school at the same time. But fortunately, I have managed to succeed. I believe that discipline and time management are what make it possible to succeed in everything you do. There have been instances when I had to finish school lessons because after school, I had games until 10:30 pm, and the next day, I had a modeling session at 7 am. Of course, I prioritize school, but I also try to give equal importance to modeling and the cheerleading team.
Ema Hila at the fashion show (archive) |
When did this beautiful dream start for you, and do you think that one day you will dominate the media as a top model?
This beautiful dream started with me. Also, throughout my childhood, the support and desire of my family have inspired me to make this dream a reality. In the near future, I hope to become an influencer and a top model on social media, hoping that I can have some power to encourage girls to have self-confidence in themselves and what they do. But as a profession, I have a strong desire to continue with medicine because I believe there is no greater strength than helping someone in need.
What are some of your impressions from the first night of the 25th edition, where well-known names from the Albanian showbiz, artists, politicians, etc., were present?
Certainly, on the first night when I met the entire staff and contestants, I had extremely mixed emotions. Perhaps it was the cameras, the girls, or simply the happiness within me! But when I saw that everyone was cheerful and kind, I felt more at ease. Present were Petri Bozo, Drita Ziri, Hygerta Sako, Olta Ahmetaj, Ertemiona Mejdani, who not only welcomed us in a fantastic way but also had a sense of humor that was captivating.
What are your dreams for the future?
In the future, I dream of fulfilling my desire and passion for the modeling world. But besides that, of course I want to have the profession of my dreams, which is "geneticist", and to help girls as much as possible. Also, I want to walk everywhere in the world with my head held high.
What is your message to your countrymen in America and everywhere in the Diaspora?
What I want to say to every Albanian in the world is: "Wherever you are, don't forget where you come from and what blood we have in our veins, always come back to Albania to beautify even more this country that makes us so proud .”
Thanks for the conversation and many congratulations from me and TV "Alba Life" USA
Mrs. Kozeta, you have my thanks for the work and the opportunity you offered. I thank you from the bottom of my heart and good luck to you and TV "Alba Life" USA.