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ABOUT SHQIPE
Shqipe Neziri-Vela, with a two-decade-long career, has worked with global organizations like the World Bank, UNDP, and the Millennium Challenge Corporation. Her work focuses on anti-corruption, energy, and extractive industries. As co-founder and chairperson of Kosovo Women in Energy and Mining, she has received international awards for promoting gender equality and empowering women in these sectors. She teaches energy policy at the Rochester Institute of Technology, shaping future leaders.
STAY HUNGRY FOR KNOWLEDGE AND GROWTH, BUT REMAIN HUMBLE IN YOUR LEADERSHIP.
Shqipe Neziri Vela
SHQIPE IN A NUTSHELL
Co-founder and Chairperson
Kosovo Women in Energy and Mining
area of expertise
Community Building / Management Kosovo 🇽🇰
companies Shqipe has worked for
SHQIPE AS A LEADER
Success to me is defined by personal fulfillment and positive impact, intertwined with continuous growth. This philosophy encompasses not just professional achievements but also the cultivation of meaningful relationships and contributions to others' well-being. It is a journey where resilience, constant learning, and authentic living are the milestones that mark my sense of achievement and success.
Leadership is not about exerting authority or commanding obedience.
Great leaders inspire, empower, and serve others.
The future of leadership is collaborative, inclusive, and adaptive.
When I think of a leader, I think of someone who guides, motivates, and brings out the best in others through their actions and integrity.
LEADERSHIP IS NOT ABOUT EXERTING AUTHORITY BUT GUIDING, MOTIVATING, AND BRINGING OUT THE BEST IN OTHERS.
Shqipe Neziri Vela
SHQIPE ON OVERCOMING GENDER BIAS IN THE ENERGY SECTOR
Navigating the energy sector as a woman in a predominantly male-dominated field has been one of Shqipe's biggest career challenges. Gender biases and stereotypes often posed obstacles, but she tackled them by building strong relationships with supportive colleagues and mentors who recognized her contributions regardless of gender. By consistently delivering high-quality work and advocating for gender diversity and inclusion, Shqipe earned the respect of her peers and superiors, gradually breaking down barriers. She also initiated mentoring programs and diversity training to create a more inclusive work environment where women could thrive and succeed.
SHQIPE ON MENTORSHIP AND EMPOWERMENT
Shqipe is deeply committed to supporting the next generation of leaders. She mentors international students benefiting from the Erasmus Mundus programs of the EU and provides career advice and guidance to university students at RIT. Additionally, she mentors individuals interested in pursuing careers in the energy sector and empowers women facing barriers in male-dominated industries. Through personalized guidance and support, Shqipe helps these individuals overcome challenges, develop their skills, and advance their careers, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES AND ADVERSITY HAS EQUIPPED ME WITH RESILIENCE AND DETERMINATION, TRAITS ESSENTIAL FOR EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP.
Shqipe on becoming a better leader
INTERVIEW
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