Ina received her Master of Science in Information Systems in Economics from University of Tirana. During the last decade Ina has been a vital part of major software development companies in Albania and Kosova where she has been recently leading their programming department. As an excellent student during her academic journey, Ina believes that when the right opportunities are provided to individuals that excel in their studies, they can bring the much needed change to the World. Ina splits her time living and working between Tirana and Prishtina.

Lori Çobani was born and raised in Pogradec, Albania, where he spent 12 years attending Nehemia School from first grade through high school. With a strong foundation in science and a passion for inquiry, he moved to the United States to pursue higher education. Lori earned his BS/MS in Biochemistry from Idaho State University in 2018, where he developed a deep interest in the intersection of chemistry and biology. He continued his academic journey at Temple University in Philadelphia, completing a Ph.D. in Bioinorganic Chemistry. His research focused on metal-binding molecules secreted by bacteria and their interaction with titanium dioxide, contributing to the understanding of microbial metal uptake and potential medical and environmental applications. Currently, Lori serves as a Teaching and Research Support Specialist at Lafayette College, where he supports undergraduate laboratory instruction, fosters student engagement with scientific research, and helps coordinate programs like SEA-PHAGES. He is committed to creating hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity and critical thinking. Outside of academia, Lori remains active in the community as a U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) and NCAA soccer referee, balancing his love of science with a lifelong passion for the game.

Suela is an experienced pharmaceutical professional currently serving as Head of Production of

Sterile Injectables at Profarma. With over a decade of leadership in the manufacturing of

parenteral drug products she brings deep expertise in operations management, quality control

and pharmaceutical production processes. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in both Biochemistry

and Chemistry, as well as a Master of Sciences in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Idaho State

University.

During her studies she was actively involved in research at the intersection of synthetic

chemistry, nanotechnology and cell culture systems, combining disciplines to explore innovative

approaches in pharmaceutical sciences. 

In her current role she is a catalyst for driving process improvements, advancing production

standards and fostering a culture of continuous development and innovation within the

organization.

Suela’s academic journey began with an excellence scholarship, a formative experience that

instilled in her a strong belief in the value of opportunity and the importance of giving back.

Dr. Silvi Bozo is an Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Chemical-Pharmaceutical and Biomolecular Technologies at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel.” She earned her degree in Pharmacy and Industrial Pharmacy with honors in 2012, followed by a PhD in Public Health, Molecular Diagnosis of Infectious Diseases, and Pharmacovigilance in 2017. She was promoted to Associate Professor in May 2023 and appointed Department Head in October 2024. With professional experience in Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance within the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Bozo brings a strong blend of academic knowledge and practical expertise. She is actively engaged in international research initiatives, including a NATO-funded project on biological threats and a current research project supported by the National Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation (NASRI) in Albania. Her work has been recognized through several prestigious awards, including the Premio di Ricerca in memoria della Prof.ssa Sottocornola and a research grant from the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), which supported her research at the University Hospital for Infectious Diseases in Zagreb. Dr. Bozo continues to contribute to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences through research, teaching, and international collaboration.

Originally from Pogradec, Albania, Orest Aliçkolli began his academic journey at Muharrem Çollaku Public High School before moving to the United States in 2007. He initially pursued engineering and worked as a structural designer, contributing to the design of nuclear power plants. Driven by a passion for data and innovation, Orest later earned a Master’s degree in Analytics from the University of Chicago and transitioned into the field of data science. Today, he serves as a Staff Data Scientist at Mintel, a global leader in market intelligence. In this role, he leads the research and development of data-driven and AI-powered products, helping to shape the future of consumer insights. Orest blends deep technical expertise with a strategic mindset, bridging complex analytics with real-world business applications.

Lazaron Gusho

Originally from Pogradec, Albania, Lazaron Gusho has called New York City home for the past 15 years. A top graduate of Nehemia High School—where he was valedictorian of its first-ever graduating class—Lazaron moved to the United States to pursue higher education in Civil Engineering and Architecture at Idaho State University. He later earned a Master of Science in Construction Management from NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering. Today, Lazaron is a senior associate and project manager at one of the leading construction firms in the New York City area. He oversees all phases of complex construction projects, managing technical, financial, and legal elements from concept through design and execution to final handover. Beyond his professional role, Lazaron is deeply engaged in industry advocacy and mentorship. He is an active member of several organizations that promote innovation and excellence in construction and engineering, and he mentors the next generation of professionals entering the field. Lazaron is passionate about lifelong learning, the arts, sports, and empowering others to reach their full potential