VEPRA

I’m super excited to announce that I will be sharing my insight from attending hearings on Capitol Hill! Since I’m based in Washington, D.C., just a short walk from the U.S. Capitol, I’ve begun attending select congressional hearings to witness these critical debates firsthand — and I’ll be bringing you insights and reflections straight from the room. In this episode, I take you inside a powerful and emotional House Oversight Committee hearing titled: “A Hearing with Sanctuary State Governors.” The hearing was packed. The rhetoric was intense. And the stakes for millions of immigrants in America could not be higher. I’ll share what I observed, why this debate matters so deeply, and why I believe it’s time for smart, humane immigration reform that reflects the best of American values. These are important moments in our nation’s story — and only time will tell how they unfold. I hope this episode offers you a thoughtful and honest perspective from inside the room. 🎧 Tune in — and join me on this journey through America’s democracy in action. Love, Vepra Team <3

In this episode of Vepra, Anja shares insights (in English and Albanian) from her attendance at the U.S.-Montenegro Senior Economic Dialogue, held in Washington, D.C., on October 21, 2024. This landmark meeting brought together high-profile leaders, including Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez and Montenegrin Deputy Prime Minister Nik Gjeloshaj, alongside Montenegro's ministers of energy, public administration, maritime affairs, and oil, gas, and mining. Together, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen economic ties between the United States and Montenegro, focusing on areas like cybersecurity, sustainable energy, and investment security. Anja delves into the dialogue’s implications for regional stability, economic growth, and Montenegro’s journey toward European Union accession—topics that resonate deeply with Albanian-Americans and the broader diaspora. She highlights how these collaborative efforts open new avenues for Albanian-Americans to invest in the Balkans with greater confidence, foster secure digital infrastructures, and align with shared values like democracy and sustainability. Join us to explore how this partnership marks a step forward for the Balkans and how diaspora engagement can contribute to a brighter, cooperative future in Southeast Europe. Thank you so much for listening! <3 Vepra Team

A recording by our host Anja Dinion for Gazeta Dita , published in Albania.

Odeta Kushi is from Albania and Kosovo , she is currently in Washington DC as First American Deputy Chief Economist and a prominent voice in real estate, providing analysis, commentary and forecasts on trends in the U.S. real estate and mortgage markets on media outlets! Her story is inspiring because she truly believes in the concept of "Commit to lifelong learning" and going after your dreams "fearlessly". She lives by the motto and is an inspiration to all Albanian women out there! Enjoy listening to this episode! Love, Vepra Team

Samantha Sarelli is the definition of confidence and believing in yourself. She was former Miss Connecticut Teen USA 2020 and placed top 15. She's also an advocate against human trafficing through the creation of her video series , Giving Voice to Victims , where she interviews various survivors, experts, and advocates to raise awareness on human trafficking. Sam is proud of her Albanian roots and is proud to support the next generation of strong Albanian women! Listen and watch this episode! ⁠"VEPRA" podcast/tv show RTSH3 (@vepra_podcast) • Instagram photos and videos⁠ [https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cy0G0xRKnWX/] <3 Vepra Team