ELBA remembers Luljeta Nuzi

ELBA remembers a monumental community leader with the passing of Luljeta Nuzi. Luljeta died in February after a long battle with cancer, which had been diagnosed in 2022.

It was twenty years earlier that Luli, as she was also known, set up Shpresa, which means “hope” in Albanian. Herself an Albanian refugee, she wanted to support the Albanian-speaking community with ESOL, education and training programmes, advocacy and support.

Luljeta grew the organisation from a small start-up into an impressive, dynamic organisation, impacting the lives of thousands. Shpresa was a model of good practice, leadership and governance, and Luli also shared her leadership expertise as a board member at the School of Social Entrepreneurs.

Luljeta led a long standing partnership with ELBA, including being involved in team challenges, employability programmes, Leaders in Partnership and ELBA’s Toy Appeal in which the partnership enabled toys to be distributed to families supported by Shpresa.

ELBA Consultant Alison White worked with Luljets for over a decade during her time with ELBA: “If you asked me what good leadership looks like I would say Luljeta Nuzi. She was one of the most impressive and inspirational people I have ever known. She built around her a dedicated team, motivated her whole community, developed lasting partnerships and was tireless in her drive and commitment to her cause. She trusted people and commanded love and respect wherever she went. It was a privilege to work with her.”

ELBA sends its heartfelt regards to Luljeta’s family, friends and colleagues.

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