Our Executive Team

Our Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors stands as one of our greatest strengths, composed of highly respected personalities with a wealth of experience, integrity, and expertise across a range of fields. These distinguished individuals bring unparalleled insight and leadership, enabling us to strategically navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

Their diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to excellence foster a collaborative environment that enhances our decision-making process and drives our mission forward. The board's ability to synergize efficiently ensures that we are well-positioned to innovate, grow, and maintain our competitive advantage in a dynamic global landscape.

Ted Kopliku

Cofounder, board member

Ted is one of the co-founders of the ACI, after serving as a Board Member of the Albanian Policy Center. He oversees governance and international relations matter at our think tanks.

He has completed his studies in Construction Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Tirana. Subsequently, he graduated in History, International Relations and Social Sciences at Paul Valéry University. Recently, he completed the master’s in European and International Studies at the same university.

Ted has been engaged in the political and public life of the country, contributing with writings and analyses. Ted is a well-known figure, activist and politician present in the media, where he contributes with his analysis on the various problems the Albanian society faces. Ted has consistently shown a remarkable commitment to raising his voice against injustices, often being the first one to do so and inspiring others to follow. Through social media and community engagement, his work at the center-right Democratic Party of Albania or as a simple citizen he has strived to inspire those around him with his steadfast dedication to conservative values, governance, and the development of Albania

He has established strong relations with our EPP partners in Europe, as well as with other young leaders in the United Nations, bringing invaluable allies and friends to the ACI.

Enri Ceno

Cofounder, board member

Enri Çeno is one of the cofounders of the ACI and a multifaceted professional with roles spanning politics, business, and international investment. Currently, he serves as the International Relations Secretary for the Democratic Party of Albania, where he coordinates international partnerships and represents the party in foreign relations. Since 2021, he has also acted as the Point of Contact for the Head of Cerberus Deutschland GmbH in the Western Balkans, facilitating investment projects and collaborations with decision-makers, investors, and officials across the region.

An entrepreneur, Enri is the founder and CEO of various companies, with experience as a business executive in the extractive industry and commodity trading. He has a background in legal studies from the United Kingdom and significant expertise in trading energy and minerals. Recently, Enri has expanded his focus to include investments in tech startups in Albania and Kosovo, working with major tech companies like the UK-based Noon Dalton.

In addition to his current roles, Enri has been involved with the Democratic Party since 2014, serving as Chairman of the Human Rights Department before stepping into his current international role. His diverse experience and network make him a key figure in promoting business and political engagement in Albania and the broader Balkan region.

Gentian Trenova

Cofounder, board member

Gentian Trenova is one of the cofounders of the ACI and a highly respected legal professional with nearly 20 years of experience in Albania’s judicial system. Throughout his career, he has held pivotal roles, serving as a Prosecutor across various judicial levels, including the Tirana Appeal Prosecutor’s Office and the Court of First Instance for Serious Crime. His broad expertise also encompasses advisory roles, such as Legal Advisor at the Albanian Supreme Audit Institution and Counselor at the People’s Advocate of Albania, where he has played an instrumental role in shaping legal practices and upholding citizens' rights.

Trenova’s commitment to the legal field extends into academia, where he has shared his expertise as an External Lecturer in Criminal Law at Albanian University. His professional training is extensive, with specialized courses in investigating official corruption, terrorism, and organized crime through esteemed programs offered by the CEELI Institute, the U.S. Department of State, and USAID. This blend of practical experience, academic involvement, and specialized training underscores Trenova's distinguished contribution to the legal landscape in Albania.

Lindita Komani

Cofounder, Chair of the board

Lindita Komani is one of the cofounders of the ACI and an accomplished professional with extensive experience across the NGO, business, research, and policy-making sectors. She has played a key role in a variety of organizations, working in diverse fields such as business, policy, and advocacy across Austria, Albania, Kosovo, Belgium, and beyond. Currently, she is a prominent figure at the Foreign Investors Association of Albania, where she advocates for a favorable investment climate and fosters strong partnerships between foreign businesses and local stakeholders.

Lindita’s expertise spans business development, research, and project management, with a particular focus on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. She has a proven track record of standing up for causes that affect our society, and is a dedicated promoter of young talent and youth entrepreneurship across Europe. In addition to her professional work, Lindita has a rich background in writing, with contributions in policy analysis, news reporting, and literary writing. She has translated books from German and English, enriching the Albanian literary landscape. Her commitment to social causes is evident in her active involvement in civil activism over the past decade, where she has championed various civic issues in Albania.

Lindita holds a master’s degree in psychology from Divine Mercy University in the U.S., where her thesis focused on the intergenerational effects of trauma experienced under Communist rule in Albania. Her unique blend of professional expertise, academic insight, and civic engagement makes her a respected voice in the fields of business, policy, and social advocacy.

Our Pool of Experts

We are privileged to collaborate with and get advice from a distinguished pool of experts who contribute to our work on a project-by-project basis. These prominent personalities, drawn from a wide range of fields, bring invaluable insights and cutting-edge expertise to our initiatives. Their contributions are vital to the success of many of our projects, and we rely on their deep knowledge and experience to provide the highest level of analysis and solutions.

By publishing their work, or collaborating on events, we not only highlight their exceptional talent but also enrich our own offerings, ensuring that our research and recommendations remain relevant, impactful, and grounded in expert perspectives. Their involvement enhances our ability to address complex challenges and drive meaningful progress across various sectors.

Alfred Pllumbi

International relations

Alfred Pellumbi is a prominent public activist known for his influential role in Albania and his active involvement with the Conservative Party of the United Kingdom. With a deep commitment to promoting conservative values, he has become a key figure in advocating for policies that emphasize individual freedom, family, and economic growth. In Albania, Pellumbi has worked tirelessly to foster civic engagement and support democratic governance, often addressing issues related to national identity, social cohesion, and economic reform. His contributions extend beyond national borders, as he plays a significant role within the UK Conservative Party, offering a unique perspective on bridging political strategies between the two nations. Through his activism and political endeavors, Pellumbi continues to champion the principles of conservatism while inspiring a new generation of leaders in both Albania and the UK.

Florjon Mima

Economic policy, former Minister of Economy, Trade and Energy, former member of parliament

Florion Mima is a prominent Albanian economist and politician with a distinguished career in public administration, academia, and the private sector. He has served as Deputy Minister of Finance, Minister of Economy, Trade, and Energy, and has been a Member of Parliament in several legislatures, playing a key role in shaping and implementing fiscal and economic policies.

A recognized expert in fiscal policy and economic development, Mima has also made significant contributions to higher education as a lecturer at several universities in Tirana.

Mima is one of the most respected voices in the Albanian public sphere, regularly participating in television programs and publishing articles on economic issues and public policies. He is also active in organizations and forums that promote Albania’s economic and democratic development.

Erion Dasho

Healthcare, Doctor

Dr. Erion Dasho is a medical doctor and renowned health policy expert. In Albania, he led important national programs, including the National AIDS Programme and the National Telemedicine Programme.

His international career encompasses extensive experience in global health, ranging from healthcare infrastructure development in Qatar, Abu Dhabi, and Indonesia to national policy formulation in Central and South Asian countries. He has also spearheaded digitalization efforts in various countries worldwide. Over the past two years, Dr. Dasho has focused on driving digital transformation initiatives in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Nordic region.

Although he left Albania more than a decade ago, Dr. Dasho remains actively engaged in the country’s professional and social life. He contributes analyses, commentary, and participates in debates on healthcare and public health policy. He was particularly active during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as one of the most vocal critics of the government and public health authorities' management of the crisis.

Dr. Dasho has developed, proposed and shared with the public several strategies aimed at reforming and modernizing the Albanian healthcare system..

Myqerem Tafaj

Education, former minister of education and sciences, former member of parliament

Myqerem Tafaj is a prominent Albanian academic, politician, and former Minister of Education and Science, widely recognized for his contributions to education reform in Albania. He has built a distinguished career as a professor and researcher, focusing on advancing scientific research and innovation in higher education. His tenure as Minister of Education and Science was marked by significant reforms aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of education, aligning Albania’s education system with European standards, and fostering partnerships between academia and industry.

In addition to his academic achievements, Tafaj has been an active member of the Democratic Party of Albania, contributing to its policies on education and scientific development. He served as a Member of Parliament, where he advocated for investments in education and research as fundamental pillars for Albania’s economic and social progress. Throughout his career, Tafaj has been a vocal proponent of innovation-driven development and has worked to promote opportunities for young Albanians in science, technology, and entrepreneurship. His efforts have left a lasting impact on Albania’s education system and its integration into the global academic and research community.

Melisa Braci

International relations

Melisa Braci is a law graduate from the University of Shkodra "Luigj Gurakuqi." She has enriched her expertise through certifications in EU-Russia International Relations, Social Norms, Security in the Baltic Sea Region, Public Relations, English, and Italian from prestigious global institutions. She has obtained a master’s degree in International Sciences at the University of Turin.

A dedicated member of Forza Italia in Italy, Melisa is a political activist and blogger, sharing her insights on key political and social issues. She was one of the early initiators of the 2018 student protests in Shkodra, advocating for educational reforms and youth empowerment. In addition, she has contributed to international academic publications and led awareness campaigns, particularly in the legal and human rights fields. Melisa is certified in "EU- Russia International Relations" , "Social Norms", "Security in Baltic Sea Region"

As a committed conservative, Melisa comes from an anti-communist family and proudly identifies as a democrat. She values consistency, courage, idealism, and champions the role of women in politics. Melisa is also a co-author of the Conservative Doctrine of the Democratic Party, underlining her active role in shaping center-right political philosophy..

Albert Bikaj

Political Science, Regional Expert, Advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister of montenegro

Albert Bikaj is a political scientist, historian, translator, co-founder and editor-in-chief of the cultural magazine Kallnori. He is currently the advisor to the deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro.

Albert has contributed to the Research Institute for Politics and Government at NUPS (Hungary), The Mallard (UK), The Burkean and Catholic Arena (Ireland).

His work has also been translated and published in the prestigious Albanian magazines as Politiko, Syri, Gazeta 55, and the Catholic magazine Drita in Kosovo. Albert has been published in Italian and French, as well. He studied International Relations and Diplomacy at the University of Donja Gorica (Montenegro), and graduated in Medieval Studies at the University of Zagreb (Croatia). Recently he has translated to Albanian Sir Roger Scruton’s “England and the Need for Nations”.

He is also the Vice-Chairman and Balkans Representative of the Conservative Youth of Europe. Together with Nikola, they are coauthors of the Political Doctrine of the center right Democratic Party of Albania.

Ina Xhakollari

Marketing Expert

Ina Xhakollari is a digital marketer, creative thinker, brand curator, and event planner, bringing a dynamic blend of expertise to every project she undertakes. With a passion for crafting impactful marketing strategies, building memorable brands, and orchestrating seamless events, she combines creativity and strategic thinking to deliver exceptional results.

She is the artist who created the Albanian Conservative Institute's logo and branding, for which we express our gratitude.