Rona Mala, a young woman of Albanian origin from Drenas, has successfully completed basic military training after joining the Louisiana National Guard in the United States.

Mala completed 12 weeks of intensive Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill in Oklahoma. She is now continuing her Advanced Individual Training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, after which she plans to return to her university studies.

Kosova’s acting Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, highlighted Mala’s achievement in a social media post, describing her decision to join the U.S. military at such a young age as an inspiring example for girls from the Albanian diaspora.

Maqedonci said he had been invited as a guest of honor to Mala’s graduation ceremony at Fort Sill, but was unable to attend due to his official responsibilities in Kosova.

Mala’s achievements began long before her military career. According to Maqedonci, she consistently distinguished herself throughout her education, was part of the Honor Roll and reached the finals of national dance competitions in the United States.

Her successful completion of Basic Combat Training marks another milestone in her journey. She is now continuing her military training in Missouri while preparing to return to university.

Maqedonci congratulated Mala and described her achievement as a source of pride for her family, Drenas, the Albanian diaspora and all of Kosova.