“My place is where policies meet people.” For Besmira Doma, that line was never abstract. It shaped her studies, her choices, and her decision to work at the point where decisions on paper turn into change in real lives. With graduate degrees in Public Service Administration and Governance and Public Policy, she did not stop at theory. Today, as a UN Volunteer with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in Albania, Besmira serves as a Youth Empowerment Officer—bringing policy down to street level, and young people into the conversation. This is her story.
“Life took an unexpected turn during my master’s studies. Just when everything seemed to be falling into place, I began feeling unwell. Doctors confirmed a neurological diagnosis, and my world shifted. I faced both physical and mental barriers, compounded by social stigma. I found myself asking, “Why me?”
I never wanted to be defined by pity or by my condition. What I knew, even in that uncertainty, was that I wanted to be recognized for my intellect and contribution, not for my health challenges.
Discipline in my studies became my anchor. Diploma became both a goal and a promise to myself and my parents, who had sacrificed so much for my education. I chose to focus on what I could control: my effort, responsibility, and growth. Hard work opened the door to a position in the Albanian public administration—proof to myself that I was capable, no matter the obstacles.
During my bachelor’s programme, one course explored the role of international organizations in maintaining peace and security and promoting democratic values. It was then that I first began to understand the global impact of the United Nations. But I never imagined that one day I would become part of the United Nations.
My first encounter with UNICEF came unexpectedly at a conference in 2024 centered on Albania’s National Strategy for Social Protection 2025–2029. There, I volunteered for the first time. I quickly realized that UNICEF is more than an organization. It is an engine of change, combining strategic planning with real influence on legislation and implementation. Although my initial volunteer experience lasted only one month, I saw public service as an action, and myself as part of it.
When the call for UN Volunteers opened, I applied without hesitation. Changing my professional path was not easy, but it was the right decision.
Today, my day begins with music and traffic in Tirana—a small, hard‑won freedom. An accessible workspace at UNICEF means independence is not negotiated; it is assumed. As a UN Volunteer, value is measured by skill and judgment, not circumstance. That respect is power—and it makes contribution possible, on equal terms.
What makes this journey even more meaningful is UNICEF’s commitment to creating a youth-friendly environment. Here, young people are not seen as beneficiaries, but as partners. Their opinions are actively sought, their ideas are welcomed, and their leadership is encouraged.
I manage the U-Report platform through RapidPro, design and launch surveys to capture youth perspectives on education, employment, skills, and well-being, and translate that data into recommendations and awareness messages. Equally important is my work with the Adolescent Advisory Board. Together, we organize activities for young people aged 15–24 in schools and local organizations, promoting civic participation, volunteering, and U-Report as a space where youth voices matter.
Those voices reached the Albanian Parliament on International Human Rights Day, where young people called for stronger economic support for children, education aligned with labour market needs, and greater protection and security. Another milestone was the approval of an amendment to Albania’s law on volunteering, which now recognizes volunteering as work experience in recruitment procedures. The amendment also introduces state compensation for insurance contributions paid by volunteer providers, strengthening protection for young volunteers. Being part of this effort showed me that policy, when done right, can change what is possible for young people.
On a personal level, these years have felt like climbing the steps of a pyramid, each one bringing new challenges that once seemed insurmountable. Every step has required strength, patience, and trust.
Yet through every difficulty, I have learned to appreciate life and the people around me more deeply, to grow professionally, and, above all, to accept—to accept reality, change, and limitations—while also recognizing my potential to move forward.
Climbing this pyramid made me more aware that equality is the foundation of a just society. We may differ in ideas, experiences, and perspectives, but we must be equal in dignity and opportunity. Only on this basis can a strong and inclusive society be built.
There have been moments of falling and rising, of physical and emotional exhaustion. But I have always risen. My strength lies in the desire to become the best version of myself.”
For Besmira Doma, the work goes beyond a job title. A UN Volunteer assignment with UNICEF in Albania has given her not only a platform, but a voice—one that is heard and respected as she helps bring young people into dialogue. “It is great for UNICEF to have Besmira as a member of our youth team,” says Linda Bushati, Education and Youth Specialist at UNICEF Albania. “Her dedication has made a real difference in our programmes and has inspired both colleagues and the young people we serve. As a young people’s advocate, Besmira is helping young people have a voice through U‑Report and has strengthened our campaigns to create a more supportive environment for them.”
It is this mix of commitment, trust and action that defines Besmira’s journey—and that pyramid of growth that she climbs every day, bit by bit.