Nene Tereza: Shaping the Future of the Albanian Community in the UK

READ IN ALBANIAN-LEXO NE SHQIP

In communities across London and beyond, a quiet transformation has been taking place for nearly two decades. At the centre of it stands Nene Tereza, an organisation that has become a beacon of hope, opportunity and cultural pride for Albanian families throughout the United Kingdom.

Founded in September 2007, Nene Tereza was established in response to a growing concern within the Albanian diaspora. Increasing numbers of young people from disadvantaged Albanian and Kosovan families were facing educational underachievement, unemployment, school exclusion and, in some cases, involvement in gangs and crime. Many were living in deprived neighbourhoods across boroughs such as Haringey, Enfield, Islington, Barnet, and Barking and Dagenham.

The founders recognised that without early intervention and strong community support, a generation risked being left behind. Their answer was simple yet powerful: education, culture and inclusion.

Education as the Foundation

Today, Nene Tereza operates supplementary schools across multiple locations including Bournemouth, Enfield, Romford, Salisbury, Barnet and Beckenham. Each Saturday  and in some areas Sundays  classrooms fill with children eager to learn not only core subjects but also the language and traditions of their heritage.

Students are taught Albanian language, Albanian and English history, mathematics and ICT. Beyond academics, the schools offer traditional Albanian dance, drama, football and basketball, creating a balanced environment where young people can develop confidence, teamwork and creativity.

For many families, these schools are more than lessons  they are a bridge between cultures. Children grow up fluent in both their heritage and their British identity, equipped to succeed academically while remaining connected to their roots.

To date, the organisation has worked with more than 3,500 community members, demonstrating both reach and impact.

Breaking the Cycle

The mission of Nene Tereza is clear: to break the intergenerational cycle of disadvantage and disenfranchisement affecting Albanian children and families in the UK.

Through continuous engagement with parents and young people, the organisation identifies challenges early. Whether a child is struggling in mainstream education, facing social pressures, or lacking confidence, Nene Tereza steps in with structured support and positive role models.

This preventative approach has proven vital. By nurturing ambition and providing structured activities, the organisation helps steer young people away from negative influences and toward meaningful achievement.

Leadership with Vision

Behind Nene Tereza’s growth is a highly qualified and dedicated leadership team. Chair Adelina Hysenaj brings strong educational expertise, holding a BA in Education and English Language Studies as well as a PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status. As a Key Stage Leader specialising in Special Educational Needs, including autism and multiple learning difficulties, she ensures inclusivity remains at the heart of the organisation.

Secretary Dhurata Hoti, a chartered qualified accountant and Finance Director, provides strategic and financial leadership. With more than a decade of board-level experience, she ensures sustainable development and sound governance.

Deputy Treasurer Sefedin Curri, director of a construction company, contributes business acumen and practical management expertise.

Treasurer Eralda Sinanay represents the voice of youth. A law student at Queen Mary University and part-time paralegal in an immigration firm, she began as a volunteer and now plays a central role in leadership a testament to the organisation’s commitment to empowering young people.

Chief Executive Officer Esat Brace, one of the original founders, continues to drive the organisation forward. A full-time Emergency Medical Technician, he dedicates his spare time to overseeing projects and expansion. His founding ambition was clear: to give Albanian children the opportunities he believed every child deserves.

More Than a School

Nene Tereza is not simply a supplementary education provider; it is a community movement. It promotes Albanian culture, language, customs and traditions while fostering inclusion within British society.

In an era when migrant communities often face complex social challenges, organisations like Nene Tereza demonstrate the power of grassroots leadership. By combining cultural preservation with academic excellence, they create confident, capable young people prepared to contribute positively to wider society.

As the organisation continues to expand into new areas, its impact grows stronger. Parents see improved school performance. Young people develop pride in their identity. Communities become more cohesive.

The future of the Albanian community in the UK is being shaped every weekend in classrooms filled with language, laughter, dance and ambition.

And at the heart of it all is Nene Tereza building not just educated students, but empowered generations.