On January 11, 2025, the Skënderbej Albanian School held its fifth edition of the event titled "Hear Our Voices", centered on the theme Year-End Festivities and Our Symbolic Gifts. The activity took place at the Brooklyn Heights Library in New York and brought together a diverse group of attendees, including the President of the Skënderbej Albanian-American Association, Mr. Imer Laçaj, the Association’s Secretary, Mrs. Alketa Ktona-Veshi, other members of the association, the school’s teaching staff, students, parents, grandparents, and supporters.
The event opened with a warm welcome from students Arelt Xhaferri, Erla Lamçe, and Kelvin Rustani. The students expressed their joy and excitement to participate in the activity, highlighting the importance of their gathering at the library. They also extended their gratitude to the school board for founding Skënderbej Albanian School and praised the dedication of the teachers who contribute to preserving the Albanian language, bridging diverse cultures, and fostering connections between them. The students emphasized the role of the school in maintaining traditional Albanian culture while enhancing the educational experience with dynamic and enriching activities.
The activity was structured into two parts. In the first part, students worked in groups on decorating gingerbread houses. Using colorful candies, icing, and various decorations, they engaged their creativity and fine motor skills. The hands-on experience of assembling and embellishing the gingerbread houses was both captivating and educational. Students collaborated, shared ideas, and ensured their collective creations were both delightful to the taste and visually appealing. Frequently tasting the materials during the process added an extra layer of fun, making the activity enjoyable not only for the participants but also for those observing. It was a perfect blend of fun, learning, and festive joy.
The event’s organization was supported by a work team led by student Simelba Xhaferri, who helped set up the lively and welcoming environment.
In the second part of the activity, students presented PowerPoint projects focusing on how they celebrate the New Year with their families and the significance of gifts they cherish the most. The presenters included Enzo Rustani, Erla Lamçe, Kelvin Rustani, Amara Hysolli, Jori Lamçe, Eneo Rustani, Emma Bermuça, Amelia Bermuça, Amara Spaillari, Aria Karaj, Kiara Laçi, Erisa Laçi, and Anja Kojku. Their presentations offered a glimpse into their lives, showcasing moments from their families, experiences in American schools, and their time at Skënderbej Albanian School. They also shared stories of family outings and recent visits to Albania during the New Year holidays.
This activity played a vital role in the personal growth of the students. It exposed them to diverse experiences, broadening their perspectives and nurturing empathy for one another. The discussions around symbolic gifts emphasized the value of meaningful gestures and the thoughtfulness behind them, fostering gratitude among the participants. Presenting their topics in front of an audience further boosted their confidence and public speaking skills.
The exchange of emotions during the event inspired creativity and set the stage for even more advanced ideas in the future. The students' performance demonstrated the Skënderbej Albanian-American Association’s continued commitment to empowering the younger generation.
The students expressed their gratitude for the year-end gifts provided by the association, appreciating the thoughtful gesture and its importance. After the presentations, they gathered at tables to discuss the event and share the new insights they had gained. They also extended special thanks to Mr. Elton Xhaferri, a member of the association, who facilitated the delivery and arrangement of the board-approved items for the event.
Congratulations to Skënderbej Albanian School on yet another successful event! Wishing you an inspiring and prosperous academic year ahead!
January 12, 2025
Staten Island, New York