GVSU student Erion Veliaj went to Albania last June to volunteer in refugee camps through International Aid, a Michigan-based humanitarian organization.
Back at GVSU, he's been sharing his experiences and providing a personal connection to the recent war in Kosovo.
Working with International Aid was an experience in its own, explains Veliaj, a native of Tirana, Albania who is an exchange student at GVSU. Serving there gave me not only a chance to work, but to learn and grow as well. I'll miss the hectic days, the smiles we brought, the people we were able to help, the dynamics of work there, and the colleagues that turned into companions in a life-changing work.
Veliaj went to Kosovo for a routine assessment trip. He was so moved by what he saw there that he accepted an offer from International Aid to return for several months to continue his volunteer work. He was one of two permanent staff members representing International Aid in Kosovo, where his primary focus was providing medical assistance.
Being back has been a total shock, says Veliaj. I have all this time to think now.
Veliaj said the stories of the people are often sad; at times they are about survival, escape, and great luck.
The ethnic cleansing dealt with one group of people thinking they were more superior than the other, explains Veliaj. It shows how masses are easily manipulated.
In May, Veliaj plans to start an international debate camp with several hundred youth, including high schools students from Kosovo. The debate camp will teach students problem-solving and conflict management skills and they will eventually compete in a province-wide tournament.
People should be able to reflect on both sides, explains Veliaj. There should be no monopoly on the truth.
I do not regret a single second of my time there, he adds. Life continues to go on, but I pray this place will be nourished and ethnic hatred will be a chapter of the past.
