She Dares – Empowering Young Women in Albania
A GIZ-financed initiative fostering self-confidence, equality, and leadership among young Albanian women.
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About the Project
She Dares offered a comprehensive training program to equip 15–20 Albanian university graduates with the tools and knowledge to recognize their personal strengths, values, and goals, and to unleash their full potential. The one-week Spring School was the core of the program, combining personal development, health education, awareness of women’s rights, financial literacy, meditation, yoga, dance, and networking events.
The need for Change
Despite legal provisions for gender equality, Albanian society still expects women to be housewives and men to be breadwinners. Social norms and education reinforce these roles, making it difficult to challenge traditional expectations. As a result, many women undervalue themselves, face violence (nearly 50% have experienced abuse), earn lower wages, have limited access to reproductive healthcare, and are exposed to workplace harassment. Social conditioning often silences women, making it hard for them to speak openly about their challenges, talents, goals, and achievements.
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Project Goals
Self-Determination
Empower participants to make confident decisions aligned with their goals.
Financial Awareness
Provide resources for financial independence and security,
Improved Health Knowledge
Equip women to make informed reproductive health decisions.
Rights Awareness
Support participants in combating discrimination and injustice.
Multiplier Effect
Enable participants to organize workshops in their communities, reaching ~200 women and creating a ripple effect of change.
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Project Video
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Diaspora Involvement
- Mentors from the diaspora provide emotional and mental support to participants, helping them implement their goals.
- Continuous mentoring (3–6 months) ensures long-term impact.
- Facilitates knowledge exchange and global perspectives.
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Activities & Program Highlights
Program Overview
One-week Spring School (core of the program)
Personal development workshops tackling imposter syndrome, building confidence, and recognizing strengths
Health education: breast & ovarian cancer, menstruation, pregnancy
Women’s rights and gender equality sessions
Online financial literacy course
Immersive experiences: meditation, yoga, dance, networking events
Mentoring system: diaspora mentors provide guidance and support
Local engagement: connect with community structures to share knowledge and skills
Topics Covered
Personal Development & Confidence
Health & Reproductive Awareness
Women’s Rights & Gender Equality
Financial Literacy
Coaching Basics & Mentorship
Networking & Community Engagement
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Our Impact
Through She Dares, participants are empowered to act as catalysts for societal change. Strengthened women positively influence their families, and empowered families strengthen communities. This domino effect contributes to achieving SDG 5 – Gender Equality, creating lasting impact across Albanian society.
Become a Mentor
Support our programs
Share your expertise
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Looking Ahead
She Dares is not just a one-time project. We intend to continue this initiative, expanding the program to reach more young women across Albania. Future editions of the Winter and Spring Schools will build on the success of previous cohorts, strengthen mentorship networks, and deepen community engagement. By continuously empowering women and fostering local leadership, we aim to create a sustainable ripple effect of change throughout Albanian society..
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Our Supporters
This project was made possible through the support of the Global Programme “Shaping Development-Oriented Migration” (MEG) by GIZ, and is implemented by OASA e.V. and AWEN.
OASA e.V.
Project Leader
AWEN
Local Project Partner
GIZ
Project Funder
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Impressions
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