Flaka Ahmetaj ’20 (Pejë, Kosovo, placed by S4-H in Prairie du Sac, WI)

When I reflect on how the YES program has transformed my life, the impact is profound. From offering me the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study abroad as an exchange student to enabling me to give back to my country and community, YES has given me everything. It also provided me the chance to become the Alumni Coordinator.

Since my return to Kosovo in 2020, I have been an active alumna. First, I was a City Representative, and for the last two years, I've been the Alumni Coordinator. Throughout this period, I have organized and participated in hundreds of activities, spending countless hours with my alumni community.

I have been involved in three IDEAL workshops, where I assisted in selecting mentors and topics for two of them. I have participated in YES testing, Pre-Departure Orientations (PDOs), and parent meetings. I have organized events like 4th of July celebrations, YES Appreciation Day, Earth Day, Thanksgiving, Eid, Christmas, and many more significant events.

I attended two Alumni Coordinator trainings, which allowed me to meet incredible people from various countries and work with the outstanding staff at American Councils. During my term, we celebrated the 20th anniversary of YES, where I had the opportunity to express my gratitude for this amazing program. I have given numerous presentations at schools, organizations, clubs, and on television.

Sharing what I have learned and what I love while being mentored and mentoring others has been a remarkable experience. It has been an incredible opportunity to serve as the Alumni Coordinator for 156 alumni and witness the growth of our community.

I'm grateful for YES, my host family, the American Councils staff, the Embassy staff here in Prishtina, and all the amazing alumni I've met from different countries and backgrounds.

It has been a wonderful journey, and I am grateful for this opportunity. Although my term is ending, I am glad to remain part of this amazing family.

Until next time,

Flaka