Qendra Rinore Arka continues to propel the social and cultural growth of Shkodra. Inspired by the youth, Arka identifies and addresses the problems that affect the overall well-being and development of young people. Year after year Arka repeatedly pushes the envelope of innovation and remains a pioneering organization in Albania!

A Critical Spark
ARKA is a crucial catalyst, supporting, connecting, and presenting Shkoder’s assets – her people, her artists, her youth, her history – so this proud city, with leadership from her young people, can fully realize her potential. In my time working with ARKA I saw the power of this Albanian founded NGO’s vision. Youth were given critical trainings, important networking opportunities, chances to travel abroad. Artists, young people, and audiences were given performances, readings, screenings, exhibitions, and reasons to believe in the beauty of their city. Albanians and allies from abroad who support justice, progressive causes, education, and cultural production find a home at ARKA, to share their gifts and build key communities. For millennia Shkoder has been the cradle of culture in Albania. With ARKA’s programs that history is being owned, celebrated, and brought forward as a proud vision for the future of those who live beneath Rozafa Fortress.

ARKA Youth Center is one of the few places in our city, where on can find himself. Not only because of thepremises, ARKA is much more than that. I came across its programs when being engaged with the Youth Council that ARKA has implementd.As a youth advocate of my city, I can assure you that ARKA Youth Center offers youngsters the right instruments to become disciplined citizens, whose voice will be heard, to work hard in order to properly present themselves in the labor market. It is a pleasure to be surrounded by the good vibes of the ARKA Center and to see the positive outcomes of contribution and impact it has on the youth.