Growing up between two cultures is always a challenge, but the community in the US has proven to be resilient and overcome obstacles.

This is what the VP of the “Shoqata Kraja”, Venera Gjenashaj, says when she talks about their activities as a function of preserving patriotic values ​​in the community where they live.

“Our vision is to be here for a long time, to be an example for future generations and a bed rock of our national identity. For as long as we work hard and united around our national interests, we strongly believe that the future is bright” she says.

Gjeneshaj explains that their goal is to create a road map for the new generations in the cultivation of Albanian culture.

“As an organization that prides ourselves with patriotic values ​​we believe that offering an opportunity to our youngsters to learn the language of their origin its imperative. Our message to all the parents is to join our mission so your kids preserve our beautiful language and traditions.”

“Shoqata Kraja” organizes Albanian classes together with “Shoqata Ana Malit” and “Shoqata Ulqini”. Choreographer Nadia Hoxha shows how the young people there learn the Albanian language and traditional dance.

“We organize Albanian classes together with “Shoqata Ana Malit” and “Shoqata Ulqini”. We currently have 170 students enrolled, with the students broken up into 4 different age groups: 4-6, 7-9, 10-13, and 14 +. We hold classes every Saturday. These students besides the dance they get to learn also the Albanian language with out amazing teachers Arlinda Sukalic and Merita Gjokaj. We can’t be more proud of our students and their parents for trusting us with this noble mission” says Hoxha.

According to Hoxha, their association feels the responsibility to offer new generations tools to preserve their cultural identity.

It is even stated that the new generations will keep the tradition alive through music and dance.
“Its our responsibility to provide younger generations with tools they need to preserve our cultural identity. We are proud of work we have done and extremely gracious to our community’s support. Hannah and I both strongly believe that the younger generations will continue to keep our traditions alive through music and dance. As choreographers, we encourage our students to develop confidence in their skills which then motivates them to explore other regional dances and traditions” added Hoxha.

But what are the key elements of “Shoqata Kraja”?

“Our key element here is to preserve our cultural identity and create a road map for future generations. Shoqata Kraja always was and will be a trusted partner for all Albanian American organizations who share our ideas and values” says the VP of “Shoqata Kraja”, Venera Gjenashaj.

She ends the interview by adding that “Shoqata Kraja” always was and will be a trusted partner for all Albanian American organizations who share the same ideas and values.