“Living Lab, EURURALITEAST”
Youth at the Heart of Sustainable Rural Development
In a roundtable that brought together key local actors and top field specialists, the “Living Lab, EURURALITEAST” sessions took place at the Arka Youth Center in Shkodër. This initiative aims to empower young people in rural areas and make them key actors in the sustainable development of their communities. Organized by CODE Partners as part of the EURURALITEAST project, and supported by the Erasmus+ program, the event gathered representatives from partner organizations, field professionals, young people, and rural entrepreneurs.
At the center of the meeting was the concept of the “Living Lab” – a collaborative and exchange space designed to generate innovative solutions for rural development. Participants were introduced to best practices from organizations such as RTM, VIS, COSPE, and others working to integrate youth into the economic and social life of remote areas. The session highlighted the need for networking among local actors, creating real opportunities for youth, and developing contemporary models of community engagement.
This activity is implemented by CODE Partners, as part of the EURALI TEAST project, funded by ERASMUS+.
One of the most important moments of the event was the discussion on rural business development, featuring an inspiring lecture by Shkëlzen Marku. He shared clear and practical steps on how a simple idea can be turned into a successful and sustainable business within the context of local territories. He emphasized the importance of strategic planning, local resources, and innovation as essential tools for competitiveness.
The meeting was enriched by inspiring success stories from young people who have dared to build their paths in their places of origin. Marjana Koçeku shared the journey of “Neomalsore,” an initiative that embraces sustainable development through challenges and community collaboration, returning to the “roots.”
Xhulio Gjecaj addressed the importance of digital and soft skills in business management, underlining the necessity of digital transformation for rural enterprises.
Rozafa Zmijani, Director of AKPA, provided a hands-on training session on essential management skills such as communication, collaboration, and team leadership.
Sentiljana Marku (Vau i Dejës) and Vullnet Kuçi (Pukë) presented their success stories as tangible examples of how tradition and innovation can intertwine to create new economic and cultural opportunities.
The event concluded with an inspiring visit to Mrizi i Zanave, a successful model of sustainable agrotourism in Albania. Welcomed by Chef Altin Prenga, the group experienced a unique encounter with the synergy between economy, community, and cultural identity.
“The economy is not an individual good. Like in Albanian folk dances, it only works when it dances side by side, hand in hand with the community.” — Altin Prenga
The youth had the chance to get an in-depth look at the story of this successful agribusiness, which combines authentic gastronomy, local production, and innovation—demonstrating that it’s possible to create a development model that benefits both individuals and the surrounding community. This final moment of the “Living Lab” became a life lesson, where young people not only learned about entrepreneurship in rural areas but were also inspired to take on an active role as builders of the future in their country.
This series of meetings is just the beginning of a set of initiatives aimed at creating a sustainable community of young people in rural areas—ready to take charge of their future. With a focus on skills development, networking, and economic empowerment, Living Lab, EURURALITEAST is laying the foundations for a rural revival led by youth and supported by the community.
A step forward toward a more sustainable future, youth led and community backed.
