For two years, NDI organized a summer camp for around 50 children from very poor families, many who had never left their villages or seen the sea. At the camp, their first steps on the sand were filled with wonder, as laughter, shy smiles, and wide eyes replaced the hardships they carried from home. They swam, played freely, made new friends, and discovered a world beyond daily struggle. For one beautiful week, these children were simply children — safe, joyful, and full of hope. NDI’s camp offered more than a holiday; it brought healing, joy, and unforgettable childhood memories.

In the village of Kosove e Vogel, access to technology was once limited, and learning about computers felt like a distant dream for students. That changed after a visit of NDI team in the local school – six new computers were provided. Today, children are exploring digital skills, connecting lessons to the wider world, and gaining confidence with every click. By investing in technology, NDI is giving students in rural communities the tools to learn, dream, and build a brighter future.

In the kindergarten of Kosove e Vogel School, learning and play fill every corner, but extreme temperatures made it hard for children to feel comfortable or focus. NDI provided a new air-conditioning unit, and now the classroom is a place where children can learn, and play in comfort. What may seem like a small change has brought a big difference, reminding us that every child deserves a safe, healthy, and joyful start to education.

Growing up in a very poor family, Çelik Sharka’s childhood was not easy. Both of his parents struggled with mental illness, and from a young age he learned what it meant to be responsible before his time. Instead of support, he was badly bullied. “When I tried to learn my first English words I was laughed by my classmates… ” he sadly said. No one could expect more from him.
But Çeliku did not give up.

With quiet strength and determination, he held on to his dream of building a better life. Today, Çeliku lives in Elbasan, where he is attending a vocational school to become a mechanic.
Surrounded by new opportunities and people who believe in him, he is learning not only a profession, but also self-confidence.

Çeliku’s journey is a powerful reminder that with support, and access to education, young people can overcome even the hardest beginnings and build a future they can be proud of.

Vasfi Toska grew up in a home where survival was a daily challenge. His family lived in extreme poverty, and both of his parents struggled with mental illness, leaving them unable to care for themselves and their children. From a young age, Vasfi understood that life had given him a difficult beginning and that no one else would come to change it for him. Vasfi chose not to surrender to his circumstances. His dream was to attend university and build a future different from the one he was born in.
His determination was strong, but the obstacles were many. Without financial support, his dream would have remained out of reach.

That is when NDI stepped in.

With NDI’s support, Vasfi was able to continue his education and complete his university studies in Food Technology. Today, Vasfi holds his diploma with pride and is actively applying for a job, ready to begin an independent life.

Vasfi Toska’s s story is one of resilience, and courage. With the right support at the right time, a young man broke the chain of poverty and turned his dream into reality.