“As I wandered through Tirana’s vibrant streets alongside artists from across the Balkans, we embarked on a collective mission to create short movies that would spotlight both the social challenges and cultural affinities shared among our nations. From the iconic modern pyramid to the historic landmarks scattered throughout the city, each frame captured through our lenses served as a testament to the rich tapestry of Balkan identity. From the modern pyramid to historic landmarks, we captured the essence of Balkan identity through our cameras. We explored the city, finding common ground in our languages, lifestyles, and food.
The collaborative experience of working on the film project in Tirana was truly inspiring. Immersed in the lively atmosphere of the city, our collective efforts deepened my appreciation for the myriad of cultures that converge within the Balkans. As we navigated the bustling streets, we weaved together narratives that resonated with both our differences and our shared experiences. This immersive experience not only honed my artistic skills but also strengthened my belief in storytelling’s ability to unite us across borders, leaving a lasting impact on my creative journey.” – Džejla Živojević
“My time spent collaborating on a short filmmaking project in Tirana alongside fellow participants from various Balkan countries was truly transformative. Working collectively with such a diverse and talented group allowed me to gain invaluable insights into the rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and perspectives that define the Balkan region. Together, we embarked on a creative journey, weaving together our individual stories and experiences to create a cinematic portrayal of the social issues and cultural nuances that unite us.
Exploring the bustling streets of Tirana and delving into its vibrant atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for our collaborative endeavor. Through the lens of our cameras, we captured the essence of Balkan identity, discovering common threads that transcend borders and foster a sense of shared heritage. The process of filmmaking in such a dynamic and culturally rich environment not only honed my artistic skills but also deepened my appreciation for the interconnectedness of Balkan nations. It was an experience that left an indelible mark on my creative journey, inspiring me to continue exploring the power of storytelling to bridge divides and celebrate our shared humanity.” – Rania Mehović
“During my stay, I learned how to see the world through the eyes of a videographer. I learned new skills in the field of cinematography and explored beautiful Tirana through workshops. But our project was more than just technical prowess—it was a symphony of talent coming together in perfect harmony. Our crew, composed of seasoned professionals and emerging talents alike, brought a wealth of expertise and fresh perspectives to the table. Through seamless collaboration and unwavering commitment, we transformed our collective vision into a cinematic masterpiece that resonates with audiences on a profound level. I look forward to meeting these wonderful souls again.” – Refika Agbabić
““Wandering through the capital of Albania Tirana I was accompanied by artistic participants from different Balkan countries, as we worked as a team, creating a short movie emphasizing social dilemmas and finding similarities within all Balkan countries who share similar language lifestyles, food and culture. Looking through the lenses of our cameras, we seeked unique spots of Tirana, resembling all Balkan countries: from modern pyramid in Tirana to pyramids in Visoko, from Skenderbeg to Ban Jelačić in Zagreb, from Artificial Lake to Lake Bled in Ljubljana, walking through the city dressed in 15th century fashion.” –Sara Jakovljevic