We are proud to share the highlights of a truly inspiring evening at the Palace of Westminster, where we celebrated the Third Cohort of the Shpresa Leadership Programme.
This special occasion brought together community leaders, partners, supporters, speakers, volunteers, and friends of the Shpresa Programme, united by one shared purpose: to recognise leadership, empowerment, and the power of community-led change.
We were honoured to welcome The Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms MP, who delivered the opening remarks for the evening. His words set a powerful tone for the celebration, recognising the importance of community leadership and the role of programmes like Shpresa in supporting real, lasting change.
His presence reflected the value of collaboration between communities and institutions working together to create opportunity and hope.
The evening was dedicated to congratulating the Third Cohort of the Shpresa Leadership Programme, a group of inspiring individuals who have shown commitment, resilience, and a deep desire to make a difference.
Leadership is not found in titles, but in hearts that refuse to give up.
Each participant’s journey reflects growth, courage, and transformation, not only for themselves, but for the communities they serve.
Throughout the evening, we were privileged to hear powerful reflections from speakers and leaders connected to Shpresa.
Jonathan Ellis
We were deeply moved by Jonathan Ellis, who shared his experience working with Shpresa and especially alongside the late Luljeta Nuzi.
He described:
“If only we could bottle Shpresa”, to capture everything Shpresa does.
Jonathan spoke passionately about Luljeta’s leadership, describing her as always one step ahead, driven by purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to people and community development.
We were also honoured to welcome James Asser MP, who addressed the event and congratulated the Third Cohort for their achievements.
He reflected on the importance of leadership development and praised the Shpresa Programme for its meaningful contribution to community empowerment and social impact.
One of the most powerful parts of the evening was hearing directly from participants whose lives have been transformed through the programme.
From participant to changemaker, Erisa shared her inspiring journey as a young mother who is now advocating strongly for children and families. Her story reflects leadership rooted in love, purpose, and hope.
Klodjana spoke about her personal growth through mentorship and her experience within the programme, highlighting how Shpresa has strengthened her confidence and sense of direction.
Enka shared her journey of overcoming challenges, building confidence, and taking bold steps towards new opportunities, showing the true impact of empowerment in action.
Aulona reflected on how the programme helped her develop leadership skills, take initiative, and move closer to achieving her personal and community goals.
Each story was a powerful reminder of what happens when people are given trust, support, and opportunity.
Angus Ritchie, a great partner and supporter, shared thoughtful reflections on working with Shpresa and the legacy of Luljeta Nuzi. He reminded us that:
Leadership is not about power, but about purpose the purpose to serve, to empower, and to inspire hope where it is needed most.
An emotional moment came from Sarah Cutler, who reflected on working alongside Shpresa and the late Luljeta Nuzi.
She spoke of Luljeta’s extraordinary spirit, a leader who led with love, positivity, and hope. Her words reminded us that true leadership continues through the lives it touches.
Luljeta’s legacy remains at the heart of Shpresa, guiding us with compassion, strength, and vision.
Emmanuel Gotora from Telco, Citizens UK, shared his appreciation for working with Shpresa and remembered Luljeta as a leader of action, passionate, committed, and deeply dedicated to community empowerment.
The evening highlighted that leadership is not theoretical, it is lived, experienced, and shared through action, service, and care for others.
The Third Cohort demonstrated this through their journeys, proving that when people are supported and empowered, they can create real and lasting change.
In his closing address, Gani Nashi, Chair of the Board of Directors, reflected on the powerful spirit of unity and achievement celebrated at the event.
He praised the dedication and resilience of the Third Cohort and recognised their contribution to community transformation.
He also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Luljeta Nuzi, describing her as:
“A light who led with love, built with hope, and inspired all of us to believe in what is possible when a community stands together.”
Gani concluded by thanking all partners, supporters, volunteers, staff, and friends of Shpresa for their continued belief and commitment to the organisation’s mission.
This evening at Westminster Parliament was more than a celebration, it was a reflection of what is possible when leadership is nurtured, communities are supported, and people are empowered to believe in themselves.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Third Cohort of the Shpresa Leadership Programme.
Their journey is just beginning, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to create.
Leadership, when rooted in compassion and community, has the power to transform lives.
