TIRANA, April 5 /ATA/ – Three young professionals who studied and worked abroad have chosen to return to Albania to build their careers, sharing their experiences and motivations on the latest episode of Prime Minister Edi Rama’s “Let’s Talk” podcast on Sunday.
Architect Dona Hasanaj, researcher Ilona Cenolli and dentist Ernest Llakaj spoke about their international experience and the reasons behind their decision to return home.
Hasanaj, born in Tirana, completed her architecture studies in Sofia on a scholarship before spending 15 years in London, where she built her professional career. During that time, she worked on major conservation and restoration projects, contributing to landmark buildings such as Old Sessions House and the restoration programme of the Palace of Westminster.
Alongside architecture, she pursued studies in astrology and launched her own perfume brand, “Perdon,” produced in the UK and sold online. After returning to Tirana in 2024, she now works at the Center for Openness and Dialogue, a contemporary cultural space focused on public dialogue, youth initiatives and social issues.
Ernest Llakaj moved to Moscow in 2010 on a scholarship to study dentistry. After completing his doctoral studies, he returned to Albania in 2024 to practise his profession.
Ilona Cenolli graduated from Harvard University in 2022 and went on to work at Harvard Medical School as a bioethics researcher, as well as serving as a health policy expert with the General Medical Council.
Cenolli said she believes Albania has the potential to become a pioneer in bioethics, an emerging field dealing with complex legal and policy issues in healthcare. Reflecting this vision, she has established the Institute of Bioethics and Health Policy in Tirana, collaborating with international partners, including Harvard Medical School.
The stories highlight a growing trend of skilled young Albanians returning home, bringing international experience and expertise to contribute to the country’s development.
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