## **#YouthInTech Alkid Shuli & Silvi Gero – Platforma “ARD STUDIOS”**

Të ftuarit tanë për këtë muaj janë Alkid Shuli dhe Silvi Gero, nxënës të gjimnazit “Qemal Stafa” të cilët do të na prezantojnë më platformën e tyre “ARD STUDIOS”.

\#YouthInTech është një nismë që promovon të rinjtë entuziastë të cilët kanë një ide apo një projekt inovator

**Si ju lindi ideja?**

*[Silvi](https://www.instagram.com/theartofsilvi/)* – Në shkollën tonë, Alkidi dhe unë kemi themeluar klubin e artit, tek i cili Alkidi, përpos artit, dëshironte të përfshinte fusha të tjera të industrisë kreative, ndaj në këtë klub lëvrojmë edhe disiplinat e dizajnit, ilustrimit digjital dhe multimedias.

*[Alkid](https://al.linkedin.com/in/alkid-shuli-913995151)*[ ](https://al.linkedin.com/in/alkid-shuli-913995151)– Për krijimin e idesë së ARD STUDIOS u inspirova nga puna që kishim bërë në klub dhe problematikat që kemi hasur mes artistëve të rinj, bashkëmoshatarët tanë. Ideja e krijimit të një platforme të tillë që do të zgjidhte këto probleme më erdhi si rezultat i kërkimit të një ideje biznesi me ndikim social për konkursin “GrowPOPRI”, ku dhe më vonë fituam në rang kombëtar.

**Si funksionon kjo platformë dhe pse pikërisht ky emër?**

*Alkid* – **ARD STUDIOS** është një platformë që bashkon artistë të rinj dhe jo vetëm, për të mundësuar promovimin e artit të tyre si dhe shërbimeve që mund të ofrojnë në fushat e industrisë kreative (fotografi, dizajn grafik, modelim 3D etj.), në mënyrë që të kenë mundësinë të nxjerrin përfitime monetare nga puna e tyre e palodhur.

Platforma do të jetë në formë aplikacioni mobile dhe website, të dizejnuar në mënyrë të atillë që t’ju përngjajnë rrjeteve popullore sociale, duke qenë se përdoruesit e synuar janë më të familjarizuar me këtë lloj formati që iu servir përmbajtje (në rastin tonë, veprat artistike etj.) në një mënyrë sa më intuitive.

Në koncept, platforma është e ndarë në dy aplikacione të veçanta, “ARD” dhe “ARD for artists”, që shërben për nevojat specifike të përdoruesëve të tyre:

• Aplikacioni “ARD” është aplikacioni me të cilin ndërveprojnë përdoruesit e zakonshëm, të cilët teksa shfetojnë sugjerimet e veprave artistike, shërbimeve apo profilet e artistëve, shfaqin interes për të parë më shumë detaje mbi to, t’i shtojnë në shportë apo edhe të blejnë.

• Aplikacioni “ARD for artists”, siç kuptohet nga vetë emri, iu vjen në ndihmë artistëve për të ngarkuar veprat e tyre artistike/shërbimet në platformë, t’ju caktojnë çmimet, të personalizojnë profilin e tyre, të kontrollojnë kërkesat mbi shërbimet që ofrojnë si edhe të menaxhojnë të ardhurat e fituara.

Deri tani keni lexuar emrin ‘ARD’, por cili është kuptimi pas këtij emri që shqiptohet kaq çuditshëm? ARD në fakt vjen si bashkim I fjalëve ‘ARt’ dhe ‘Dizajn’, që reflektojnë më së miri thelbin e platformës.

**Si do ta çoni përpara këtë platformë, cila është dëshira juaj?**

*Alkid* – Dëshira jonë është që kjo platformë të bëhet realitet, sepse besoj se është diçka që mungon në tregun shqiptar, për të cilën ka nevojë komuniteti.

Për realizimin me sukses të kësaj platforme do të nevojitej një bashkëpunim me Agjencinë e Industrisë Kreative, pasi përpjekjet tona lidhen ngushtësisht me njëra-tjetrën, madje edhe drejtuesi i kësaj agjencie, z. Jonid Jorgji, shprehu pëlqimin e tij për këtë ide në konkursin më të fundit ku kemi marrë pjesë me platformën tonë, Creative Business Cup Albania.

**Si përfiton komuniteti nga kjo platformë?**

*Silvi* – Realiteti i jetës kryeqytetase është kaq dinamik dhe shumëngjyrësh, por edhe i zymtë nga ana tjetër, në një nevojë për pak gjallëri, dhe veprat e artistëve tanë do të shërbenin më së miri. Gjithashtu platforma mund t’ju vijë në ndihmë bizneseve që kanë nevojë për shembull për shërbime brandimi, apo edhe thjesht zbukurimin e ambienteve të tyre të punës.

Por jo vetëm, “ARD STUDIOS” synon të gjallërojë shprehinë artistike të brezit të ri, të motivojë artistët e rinj për të shfrytëzuar talentet që kanë në të mirën financiare të tyre, madje edhe të punësohen si rezultat i kontakteve të para të realizuara nëpërmjet platformës sonë.

**Çfarë dëshironi të bëheni në të ardhmen, ku e shihni veten?**

*Alkid* – Jam person i shumë talenteve, ARD reflekton aftësitë e mia të shumëllojshme në industrisë kreative, me një prirje të veçantë në teknologji, sidomos mobile me krijimin e UI-ve (User Interface), por si maturant gjendem përballë zgjedhjes për të vazhduar universitetin në degët arkitekturë ose informatikë. Besoj nuk do t’i ndahem sipërmarrjes dhe shpresoj të vazhdoj “ARD STUDIOS” edhe në vitet në vijim.

*Silvi* –  Aq sa më frikëson po aq më emocionon e ardhmja. Kam pasion artet në përgjithësi dhe shkencat ekzakte, veçanërisht kiminë dhe biologjinë. Një kombinim i mirë i këtyre do të më çonte drejt profesionit të mrekullueshëm të mjekësisë, por gjithmonë duke ndjekur ëndrrën për të përmirësuar “ARD STUDIOS” përtej kufijve me synimin për të krijuar një komuniteti të mirëorganizuar. Gjithashtu dua të krijoj një ekosistem timin, ku të shkenca dhe artet ndërveprojnë në një mënyrë krijuese.

**Keni një ide të re për të cilën jeni duke punuar aktualisht?**

Alkid – Aktualisht jam presidenti i kompanisë së simuluar “REIMAJEAN” në kuadër të modulit “Kompania e Nxënësve” të zhvilluar nga “Junior Achievement of Albania” në gjimnazet kombëtare, ku po merremi me krijimin e një produkti inovator, në modë, me mjedisin e qëndrueshëm në mendje – trasta të prodhuara prej pantallonash xhins që nuk vishen më dhe qëndrojnë në sirtaret tona. Është një produkt mjaft interesant që kërkon të riimagjinojë (siç sugjeron emri) modën e shpejtë dhe të mbështesë fushatat qeveritare për ndalimin e përdorimit të qeseve plastike. Do të doja të vazhdoja në vijimësi këtë projekt, me disa bashkëpunime potenciale mjaft frytëdhënëse.

*Silvi* –  Aktualisht kam qenë pjesë e trajnimeve kriptografike dhe teknologjike. Kam marrë shumë njohuri që përpiqem t’i zbatoj në praktikë çdo ditë. Kjo, me qëllim për të integruar “ARDSTUDIOS” në fusha inovative të teknologjisë duke përdorur asete digjitale. Hapësira e aseteve digjitale kriptografike është e gjerë dhe integrimi i “ARDSTUDIOS” do të kishte mjaft sukses.

#YouthInTech - ARD Studios

> Nothing is a British consumer electronics manufacturer based in London. Founded by Carl Pei, they are building a world where **tech is fun again**.

Since its inception, I have always been fascinated by Nothing's aesthetic, so industrial, so captivating, so me.

When I was 17 years old then - I am now 18 - I wanted to experience Nothing's identity, be part of its enthusiastic community.

However, Nothing's products are not available in my country, so the only way to access Nothing's app ecosystem was to install apks, such as the first beta for Nothing Launcher, and other apps like Nothing Weather, Recorder, and Glyph Composer.

But that was not enough for me.

Nothing is relatively new in the mobile market, and its OS lacks several native applications, in the likes of a gallery app or music player, etc. I felt I could contribute with different UI/UX design concepts and share them in Nothing Discord's 'Community projects' section. This was also an opportunity to practice my design and creative thinking skills.

In this blog post, I will chronologically showcase (bear with me here) my contributions to the Nothing community, and how some of my concepts have piqued the interest of some passionate developers, who took these UI designs and turned them into real products.

## *5 January '23* - [Nothing Gallery](https://discord.com/channels/930878214237200394/1058428847646842900/threads/1060333772962287697)

This was my very first attempt at designing a Nothing application, directly on my smartphone, using PixelLab - definitely not the app's use case. I took cues from Nothing Weather and Samsung Gallery to create a simple 'Albums' interface, with a bottom navigation bar and 3 chunky buttons for the 'Recent', 'Videos' and 'Favourites' categories.

Later on, this concept turned out to be the most influential, but more on that later.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F26b432db-c9fd-46cc-b781-79028fbb2e94.png?alt=media&token=a575bdf2-f4c7-41ae-9e73-ff3b3d1be553","id":"26b432db-c9fd-46cc-b781-79028fbb2e94","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"nothingGallery_alkid.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Nothing Gallery 'Albums' screen (if you are viewing on mobile, please scroll to the right, for the others down below as well)","border":true},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2Fdc9b37e2-bf1b-4c19-9eec-d759d13b6e98.png?alt=media&token=6fc827f9-3501-416c-b2ae-949e03c15449","id":"dc9b37e2-bf1b-4c19-9eec-d759d13b6e98","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"nothingGallery_community post_alkid.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Community post","border":true}]}
```

## also *5 January '23* - [Nothing Music](https://discord.com/channels/930878214237200394/1058428847646842900/threads/1060597648475836497)

As I was still feeling in the mood, later that day I worked on another app concept, the Nothing Music. Inspired by Nothing Recorder's flat skeuomorphic approach, I designed the music player to feel like you are using a real vinyl record player.

As you can see in the Community post screenshot, the title suggests that an app is being developed, and we'll find out more about this by the end of this blog post.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F4b97b507-1cc3-45aa-911a-34f3a7f5ba28.png?alt=media&token=50bd3d9b-e1bb-4f4e-ba00-f27c81662102","id":"4b97b507-1cc3-45aa-911a-34f3a7f5ba28","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"nothing-music_v1.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Nothing Music 'Albums' and 'Now Playing' screens","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2Fd588a54c-2932-4479-820b-7cae859bca61.png?alt=media&token=9b5ea186-5917-4ef0-9862-7ecbb23d23f8","id":"d588a54c-2932-4479-820b-7cae859bca61","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"nothing-music_v1_community post.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Community post","border":false}]}
```

## *17 January '23* - [One-handed mode](https://discord.com/channels/930878214237200394/1058428847646842900/threads/1064696143314948176)

Browsing through chats and YouTube comments, I noticed that one-handed mode was a highly requested feature, and I thought of designing a proper implementation for it, following Nothing's design language.

Impressed with my post, a commenter asked if I could improve the one-hand reachability for the quick settings panel, and you can see the result in the second image. →

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F54221fc6-444c-4d28-94a7-cf855a3cde43.png?alt=media&token=3da9f29b-ca19-4166-9465-e9e478dc60c5","id":"54221fc6-444c-4d28-94a7-cf855a3cde43","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"oho_1.png","type":"image/png","caption":"One-handed mode concept","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2Fd2d68476-d3d0-4812-ab0c-d0a53a6aafcc.png?alt=media&token=7f89b2a1-294f-4213-9557-c37573212816","id":"d2d68476-d3d0-4812-ab0c-d0a53a6aafcc","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"oho_2.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Quick settings panel redesign","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F0847c75c-6e2a-4b85-8b3e-f7b05a668dd3.png?alt=media&token=f1874747-c6e5-4d31-ae45-5c44a92c44dd","id":"0847c75c-6e2a-4b85-8b3e-f7b05a668dd3","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"oho_community post.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Community post","border":false}]}
```

## *13 February '23* − [Volume slider - easy audio switching](https://discord.com/channels/930878214237200394/1058428847646842900/threads/1074754990054322310)

As the title suggests, I simply designed my take on the volume slider, adding a new functionality that would allow the users to effortlessly switch their preferred audio output right from the volume slider.

11 months later, another designer, Rahul Janardhanan, posted on X his own interpretation of this concept: [twitter.com/raonehere/status/1731346689150140712](https://twitter.com/raonehere/status/1731346689150140712?t=WHBfYi0IAVsVDGArBqhJ1Q&s=09)

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2Fed9eda7e-6a77-409a-8a94-9b1452829cfb.jpg?alt=media&token=da61d636-0e66-4f60-b69d-eb1509a3c4b1","id":"ed9eda7e-6a77-409a-8a94-9b1452829cfb","width":2066,"height":2560,"filename":"Nothing_OS_volume_slider_-_alKid.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"Volume Slider","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2Ffb921246-dfce-4266-a7f9-9797dd9a5597.mp4?alt=media&token=e43c62cd-203a-49ac-b689-ac74d8d787f1","id":"fb921246-dfce-4266-a7f9-9797dd9a5597","width":640,"height":480,"filename":"Nothing_OS_Volume_slider_animation_-_alKid.mp4","type":"video/mp4","caption":"Prototype","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F7cde3142-1872-4e1a-9c02-aafc4417c019.jpg?alt=media&token=9b6a1bec-fa47-4442-bc2c-89eea2dff965","id":"7cde3142-1872-4e1a-9c02-aafc4417c019","width":2572,"height":1669,"filename":"Collapsed_view_Nothing_OS_Volume_slider_-_alKid.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"Collapsed view","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F9807382a-d222-4e70-b9ab-fc0daca18997.jpg?alt=media&token=f90595a6-4b5e-4da4-a4c2-9007c5bbca6b","id":"9807382a-d222-4e70-b9ab-fc0daca18997","width":2572,"height":1669,"filename":"Expanded_view_Nothing_OS_Volume_slider_-_alKid.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"Expanded view","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F588d1358-49f1-47f6-932a-d5fe99dfe5d8.png?alt=media&token=083ee619-77f0-4b11-8e55-bef26b72cb09","id":"588d1358-49f1-47f6-932a-d5fe99dfe5d8","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"Volume slider.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Community post","border":false}]}
```

## *July '23 - now* − [Nothing Gallery (app)](https://github.com/jerichoi224/Nothing-Gallery)

Developer Daniel Choi had shown interest since the very first day I posted my concept on Discord. On July 2nd, to the community's surprise, he posted a very early prototype of the app he was independently developing.

After a couple of months, we have a functional version of the app, published on [GitHub](https://github.com/jerichoi224/Nothing-Gallery). 

Since the Nothing team is working on their official app, this project has come to a halt from Daniel, but anybody can contribute even further.

\*also this project was featured on the Read.cv's Front Page, and I felt really proud of that.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2Fbcd0ffe2-8dc5-451d-93fc-a83fefbfe27e.jpg?alt=media&token=69a0e8bf-2f91-42b9-aeb8-e8ad0571d76d","id":"bcd0ffe2-8dc5-451d-93fc-a83fefbfe27e","width":2048,"height":2048,"filename":"63ac841a-d029-49ae-83e1-1a3cafbf088e.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"Nothing Gallery on a Nothing homescreen, with the ladybug icon designed by me 🐞","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F5f672760-4574-4d6f-9d35-b23635b94bea.jpg?alt=media&token=a7ee4dee-502c-46ef-a239-35805837c178","id":"5f672760-4574-4d6f-9d35-b23635b94bea","width":2048,"height":2048,"filename":"e6a33845-2a23-413f-bf40-2f23a9731c1c.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"'Albums' screen with some changes from my first concept","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F279ee03c-a28e-4e9d-96b1-6fe1611e1f85.jpg?alt=media&token=3c94f160-8f65-46ff-92cf-f2b7fccfba82","id":"279ee03c-a28e-4e9d-96b1-6fe1611e1f85","width":2048,"height":2048,"filename":"ee265190-ea96-4a94-8e9d-fe717a8988b6.jpg","type":"image/jpeg","caption":"'Timeline' view","border":false}]}
```

## *23 December '23* - [Nothing Music (app)](https://github.com/PreyK/Nothing-Music-Community)

Again, to my surprise, another developer, Polyák Kristóf, posted under my community post a working prototype of my Nothing Music concept. 

The app is still in its very early development stages, but you can find it published on [GitHub](https://github.com/PreyK/Nothing-Music-Community) as well if you want to contribute.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2Fd24ba034-b817-4bf0-9e2b-71c9bef62d29.mp4?alt=media&token=681001fe-8bef-44c5-b6c5-fa452941470b","id":"d24ba034-b817-4bf0-9e2b-71c9bef62d29","width":1440,"height":1080,"filename":"NothingMusicDemo.mp4","type":"video/mp4","caption":"Demo","border":false}]}
```

## *26 December '23* - [Nothing Music v2](https://www.reddit.com/r/NOTHING/comments/18rh707/working_on_nothing_music_app_concept_suggestions/)

Inspired by the sudden interest in the community for a Nothing Music app, I decided to revise my old concept and come up with something fresh.

For this interface, I was influenced by the beautifully crafted Teenage Engineering TP-7 device. 

In concept, this app would not only be able to play local music files, but also play music from other music streaming services, under one seamless connected experience.

```cv
gallery
{"layout":"hscroll","images":[{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2F44282f29-b965-431c-b95c-fee9e3c85012.png?alt=media&token=21377f0f-6f74-468f-8b73-56667c931cfb","id":"44282f29-b965-431c-b95c-fee9e3c85012","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"nothing-music_v2.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Nothing Music 'Now Playing' screen","border":false},{"src":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/maitake-project.appspot.com/o/pages%2FQcJ1GEjl7bNiRPpdQrjHzjmjbBG3%2FCCn25lNgDD1fONU9FYlP%2Fb891cbc9-cf5f-43d8-903f-9b0a91c3ea19.png?alt=media&token=cd624d56-ea21-4a31-ad56-9f96d0a8be13","id":"b891cbc9-cf5f-43d8-903f-9b0a91c3ea19","width":2880,"height":2160,"filename":"nothing-music_v2_reddit.png","type":"image/png","caption":"Reddit community post","border":false}]}
```

So, this was my 2023 as part of the Nothing community!

Even if this post doesn't get much attention (I will be sharing it on X too), I still feel fulfilled by what I've achieved so far.

Huge thank you to the Discord and Reddit community who have supported my projects, congratulated and given feedback!

For sure I won't be stopping here, let's see what 2024 has reserved, I'll keep you updated.

Signing out,

Alkid. ✌🏻

Nothing in (Re)view '23 - contributing in the Nothing community

Albania's journey towards European Union (EU) membership represents a significant chapter in the country's history, promising profound economic, social, and political transformations. The aspiration to join the EU has been a central objective for Albania since the early 2000s, driven by the potential for economic growth, increased foreign investment, and enhanced political stability. This essay examines the financial implications of Albania's potential accession to the EU, focusing on economic growth, foreign direct investment (FDI), structural funding, trade dynamics, and broader financial stability. Through these lenses, we explore both the potential benefits and challenges that Albania may face on this path.

One of the most significant financial effects of EU accession for Albania would be the expected boost in economic growth. Historically, countries that have joined the EU have experienced accelerated economic development due to access to the single market, increased investor confidence, and structural reforms mandated by the EU accession process.

EU membership would provide Albania with access to a market of over 450 million consumers, facilitating the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor. This integration can stimulate economic growth by expanding market opportunities for Albanian businesses and attracting investments from EU-based companies seeking to capitalize on new markets and lower production costs. For instance, the case of Romania and Bulgaria, which joined the EU in 2007, illustrates that EU accession can lead to a substantial increase in GDP growth rates. Post-accession, these countries experienced improved economic stability, higher GDP growth, and better integration into global supply chains.

Furthermore, EU accession entails adopting comprehensive economic reforms to align with EU standards. These reforms typically include improving the business environment, strengthening institutions, and enhancing regulatory frameworks. Such measures can significantly boost economic performance by creating a more competitive and transparent market. In Albania, ongoing reforms in the judiciary, public administration, and anti-corruption measures are expected to enhance the business climate, potentially leading to higher economic growth rates.

Foreign direct investment is another critical area where Albania could see substantial financial benefits from EU accession. Historically, EU membership has been a strong catalyst for increasing FDI inflows due to the perceived reduction in political and economic risks. Investors view EU membership as a signal of stability, adherence to rule of law, and predictable regulatory frameworks, all of which are attractive for long-term investments.

Albania, despite its strategic location and resource potential, has struggled to attract significant FDI compared to its regional peers. EU accession could change this dynamic by improving the country’s investment climate and providing investors with greater confidence. For example, countries like Poland and Hungary saw a significant rise in FDI following their accession to the EU. This influx of capital can lead to job creation, technology transfer, and enhanced productivity, all of which contribute to economic growth.

Additionally, EU structural and cohesion funds can play a vital role in enhancing Albania's infrastructure and human capital, making the country even more attractive to foreign investors. Improved infrastructure, such as transportation networks and energy systems, alongside a skilled workforce, are crucial determinants for attracting high-quality FDI. Thus, the potential for increased FDI is a significant financial effect of Albania's EU accession.

One of the tangible financial benefits of EU membership is access to structural and cohesion funds. These funds are designed to reduce regional disparities and promote economic, social, and territorial cohesion within the EU. For Albania, a country with significant developmental needs, access to these funds could be transformative.

Structural funds could be used to improve infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and public transportation systems, which are critical for economic development. Better infrastructure can enhance connectivity within the country and with neighboring regions, facilitating trade and investment. Moreover, investments in education, healthcare, and social services can improve the quality of life for citizens and create a more favorable environment for economic growth.

Cohesion funds, specifically targeted at less-developed regions, can help address regional disparities within Albania. By channeling resources into underdeveloped areas, these funds can promote balanced regional development and prevent the economic marginalization of certain parts of the country. This balanced development is crucial for ensuring sustainable economic growth and social stability.

The experience of other Eastern European countries that have accessed these funds post-accession shows substantial improvements in their infrastructure and public services. For instance, the Baltic States have utilized EU funds effectively to modernize their economies, resulting in higher growth rates and improved standards of living. Albania can similarly benefit by strategically utilizing these funds to address its developmental challenges.

EU accession would significantly impact Albania's trade dynamics. As a member of the EU, Albania would become part of the EU's customs union and single market, eliminating tariffs and non-tariff barriers with other member states. This integration would likely lead to increased trade volumes, greater market access, and enhanced competitiveness of Albanian products.

The alignment with EU standards and regulations can also improve the quality of Albanian goods and services, making them more competitive in international markets. This standardization can help Albanian businesses integrate into European and global value chains, expanding their reach and potential customer base. For example, the agricultural sector in Albania, which has significant potential, could benefit from access to the EU market, leading to increased exports and income for farmers.

Moreover, being part of the EU's trade agreements with third countries would provide Albania with access to new markets beyond Europe. The EU has numerous trade agreements with countries around the world, and Albania would benefit from these preferential trade arrangements. This expanded market access can boost exports, stimulate economic growth, and create new opportunities for businesses.

However, increased competition from more established EU firms could pose a challenge for some Albanian industries. To mitigate this, Albania would need to continue its efforts in improving productivity, innovation, and competitiveness. Strategic investments in education, research and development, and technology are crucial to ensuring that Albanian businesses can compete effectively within the EU market.

EU accession would also have profound implications for Albania's financial stability and policy. Membership in the EU entails adherence to rigorous economic governance frameworks, including fiscal rules and monetary policies aimed at ensuring macroeconomic stability. For Albania, this would mean aligning its fiscal policies with the Stability and Growth Pact, which sets limits on budget deficits and public debt levels.

Compliance with these fiscal rules can enhance investor confidence by ensuring sound public finances and reducing the risk of fiscal crises. This stability is crucial for maintaining a favorable investment climate and ensuring long-term economic growth. Additionally, Albania would benefit from the EU's extensive financial regulatory framework, which aims to ensure the stability and integrity of the financial system.

Moreover, EU accession would likely lead to increased financial assistance and technical support from EU institutions. This support can help Albania strengthen its financial sector, improve regulatory oversight, and enhance the resilience of its banking system. The experience of other new member states shows that EU support can be instrumental in stabilizing and modernizing financial systems.

However, aligning with EU policies may also pose challenges. Albania would need to undertake significant reforms to meet EU standards, which may involve difficult adjustments in fiscal policy, public administration, and governance. These reforms, while beneficial in the long term, could pose short-term economic and social costs. Therefore, careful planning and management are essential to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any adverse impacts.

While the potential financial benefits of EU accession for Albania are substantial, there are also significant challenges and risks that need to be considered. One of the primary challenges is meeting the EU's stringent accession criteria, which require comprehensive reforms in various sectors, including the judiciary, public administration, and anti-corruption measures. These reforms can be politically and socially challenging to implement, and failure to meet these criteria can delay the accession process.

Another risk is the potential for economic disruptions during the transition period. Aligning with EU standards and regulations may require significant adjustments in the Albanian economy, which could lead to short-term economic disruptions. For instance, industries that are not competitive in the EU market may face difficulties, leading to job losses and economic dislocation. Therefore, it is crucial for Albania to undertake these reforms in a gradual and well-managed manner to minimize any negative impacts.

Furthermore, the influx of EU funds, while beneficial, also poses the risk of mismanagement and corruption. Effective and transparent management of these funds is essential to ensure that they are used efficiently and achieve the desired developmental outcomes. Strengthening institutions and governance frameworks is crucial to mitigate this risk and ensure that EU funds contribute to sustainable development.

In conclusion, Albania's potential accession to the European Union holds significant financial implications, promising substantial economic benefits while also posing notable challenges. The prospect of increased economic growth, enhanced foreign direct investment, access to structural and cohesion funds, and improved trade dynamics offers a pathway to greater prosperity and development. However, these benefits are contingent on Albania's ability to successfully implement comprehensive reforms and manage the transition effectively.

The experience of other EU accession countries provides valuable lessons for Albania. By strategically utilizing EU funds, improving the investment climate, and aligning with EU standards, Albania can maximize the financial benefits of EU membership. However, careful planning, strong institutions, and effective governance are essential to navigate the challenges and risks associated with this process.

While the road to EU membership is complex and demanding, the potential financial benefits for Albania are substantial and worth pursuing. EU accession offers a unique opportunity for Albania to transform its economy, improve living standards, and achieve sustainable development. With commitment, strategic planning, and effective management, Albania can realize these financial benefits and secure a prosperous future within the European Union.

\*\*References\*\*

European Commission. (2020). "Albania 2020 Report." \[Online\] Available at: https://ec.europa.eu/neighbourhood-enlargement/system/files/2020-10/albania\_report\_2020.pdf

World Bank. (2019). "Albania Economic Update." \[Online\] Available at: https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/albania/publication/economic-update\
Certainly. Here are additional references that you can use to support the points made in the essay:

1\. \*\*European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). (2019). "Transition Report 2019-20: Better Governance, Better Economies."\*\* This report provides insights into the economic development and reforms in transitioning countries, including Albania. \[Online\] Available at: https://www.ebrd.com/transition-report-2019-20

2\. \*\*OECD. (2018). "Albania Policy Handbook."\*\* This document outlines policy recommendations for Albania to enhance economic performance and investment climate. \[Online\] Available at: https://www.oecd.org/south-east-europe/programme/SEEO-Albania-Policy-Handbook.pdf

3\. \*\*International Monetary Fund (IMF). (2020). "Albania: 2020 Article IV Consultation-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Albania."\*\* The IMF's assessment provides a comprehensive overview of Albania's economic situation and the impact of reforms. \[Online\] Available at: https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/CR/Issues/2020/07/31/Albania-2020-Article-IV-Consultation-Press-Release-Staff-Report-and-Statement-by-the-49623

4\. \*\*European Central Bank (ECB). (2018). "Economic Bulletin Issue 8/2018."\*\* This publication discusses the macroeconomic implications of EU enlargement and offers relevant case studies of recent member states. \[Online\] Available at: https://www.ecb.europa.eu/pub/economic-bulletin/html/eb201808.en.html

5\. \*\*United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2019). "Human Development Report 2019: Beyond income, beyond averages, beyond today: Inequalities in human development in the 21st century."\*\* This report can be useful for understanding the social dimensions and human development aspects associated with economic growth in Albania. \[Online\] Available at: http://hdr.undp.org/en/2019-report

6\. \*\*Balkan Barometer. (2020). "Public Opinion Survey."\*\* This survey provides data on public opinion regarding EU integration and economic expectations in the Western Balkans, including Albania. \[Online\] Available at: https://www.rcc.int/balkanbarometer/publications

7\. \*\*World Economic Forum. (2019). "Global Competitiveness Report 2019."\*\* This report ranks countries based on their economic competitiveness and provides insights into areas where Albania can improve to attract investment and boost economic growth. \[Online\] Available at: http://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF\_TheGlobalCompetitivenessReport2019.pdf

8\. \*\*Transparency International. (2020). "Corruption Perceptions Index 2020."\*\* This index provides data on corruption levels, which is relevant to discussions about improving governance as part of EU accession reforms. \[Online\] Available at: https://www.transparency.org/en/cpi/2020/index/nzl

Using these references, the essay can be further substantiated with credible data and insights from authoritative sources.

Untitled

Visual Designer

Contributing in the Nothing community

Winner of Creative Business Cup Albania

1st Place Winner at EU CodeWeek Hackathon

With great pride, we are thrilled to announce that our BLITE app has secured the prestigious first-place position in an international competition. This remarkable achievement places us among the elite representatives of each participating country, granting us the exceptional opportunity to present our groundbreaking idea and visionary concept to a global audience in Brussels, Belgium, in March 2024.

Runner-up at Student Video Contest

Albania's representative video from Qemal Stafa High School ranked in the Top 5 worldwide. 

Description of images below: Meeting the Albanian Minister of Education for the achievement of our team with our video 'Using nuclear technology to address climate change'.

*Video on the Projects section

Winner of Upshift - Social Impact Workshop

Winning team with the project 'ProcrastiNO'

Third Prize in the drawing contest 'Fëmijët dhe Kryqi i Kuq'

1st Place Winner at 'Innovative and Entrepreneural Youth' hackathon

Once again as part of the UNYO team, we pitched the Blite app, which we had worked on for CodeWeek, and won 1st place, leading to an upcoming competition, DigiEduHack.

Eco Quiz Award

The winners traveled to Turin, Italy to visit the headquarters of Intesa SanPaolo Bank and the museums it funds.

1st Place Winner at Albania CodeWeek Hackathon 2023

Part of the 'UNYO' team as lead designer, we crafted Blite, a mobile application meticulously 
designed to educate children and young 
people with disabilities, to foster 
inclusivity for everyone ensuring effective 
communication, through accessibility and 
comprehensive learning.

Best Graphic Design

Certificate of Participation

Completion of a 7-day training for technology and tourism 'Next Generation Tourism'

Tourism Ambassador of Tirana

Certificate of Participation on 'Cyber Camp Albania 2021'

Certificate of Attendance - POPRI INTERNATIONAL EUSAIR Youth Business Model competition

Several months of training on creating apps with low/no code with Adalo, concluding with the 'Hack for Albania' hackathon

Certificate of Completion of 'The Future of Mobile Development'

Successful participation on 'HackTirona' hackathon

Contributor of Europe Code Week 2021

Successful participation in the 3-day training expanding knowledge in technology and entrepreneurship.

Certificate of Participation on '#FilloDukeKoduar'

ARD Studios pitch on Startop

High school students of "Qemal Stafa", excellent promoters of environmental protection

Using nuclear technology to address climate changes

Serving as CEO of Junior Achievement's Student Company "Reimajean", we were on a mission to create a sustainable, anti-fast fashion future by reimagining old jeans into high-quality tote bags.

Reduce, reuse, reimagine!

Reimajean

Eabone

Collaborating with developer Daniel Choi to create a gallery app following Nothing's design language, by the community, for the community. 🐞

Nothing Gallery

Video from Qemal Stafa High School students to promote the program (RHAW) and awareness of water and environmental changes.

Hands Across Water

Set to be the biggest technological center in the Balkans, Piramida represents the future of Albania's youth, igniting the spark of innovation and creativity. It is going to be the new home of TUMO Tirana.

Opening this year, Piramida needed a visual identity, and this is my brand proposal, combining the shape of the building, with its past, present, and future.