YES Talks
Alumni speeches are often the most inspiring events because they provide real-life examples of success. Alumni have experienced the challenges and opportunities that come with living abroad, and can use their own unique experiences to motivate current young leaders. Furthermore, alumni have a deep connection to the local community and can inspire peers to become active members of the community. Hearing from successful alumni can encourage current people to set ambitious goals, pursue their passions, and become leaders in their field.
Emilija Krstevska ‘22 and Marija Arsovska ‘19 came up with the idea of organizing “YES Talks” an event that featured speeches from six alumni on diverse topics. The event on July 18th took place at Youth Community Centre Chair, Skopje and 25 people attended the event.
Isidora Stafanoska ‘22
My name is Isidora Stefanoska, and I had the incredible opportunity to be an exchange student in Kansas City, Missouri from 2021 to 2022. The year that I spent in the USA was the most influential year in my life so far and the things that I experienced there have now motivated me to study economics. Currently, I live in Skopje and what fulfills me the most in this environment is pushing my limits by organizing projects as a City Representative under the YES Program. In the future, I like to see myself as someone that will always stay true to the message that I want to spread which is following your passions while making an impact. I don’t have a clear vision of how that would translate into the jobs that I will have. Whether it be through entrepreneurial ventures, leadership roles, or something completely different, I am sure that I will always follow the path that allows me to feel like I’m following my passions.
The Bravery Myth: Embracing the Power of Conscious Choices
Isidora’s speech can be found in this link:
https://youtu.be/gfHkg1R36io
Nikolija Zlatevska ‘23
My name is Nikolija Zlatevska, or Niki for short. I am a 23' YES alumna, from the capital city of North Macedonia, Skopje. During my exchange year I was placed in Rogers, North-West Arkansas. In the future I hope to be an English Linguistics Coordinator, all the while doing acts of kindness for people all around the world. For the Yes Talks I will be doing a speech on how acts of kindness change lives.
How acts of kindness change life
Nikolija’s speech can be found in this link:
https://youtu.be/9sCTBR-sFtw
Flonja Iseni ‘23
My name is Flonja Iseni. I am a ‘23 YES alumna from Skopje, North Macedonia. Coming back from my exchange year in Oklahoma I have learned many incredible assets I can exploit and bring to my community. From many passions I have , acting and music have always been a big chapter of my life, but for my future I would like to pursue studying diplomacy or something in the medical field. For the YES talks I will be delivering a speech that is about the power of your subconscious mind and how it relates to my life experiences including music and acting.
The Power of the Subconscious Mind
https://youtu.be/QRQC2Y8zzb8
Jovana Stojanova ‘11
Jovana is a YES Alumna ‘11 and holds a Bachelor’s degree from Colby-Sawyer College and a Masters degree from Dartmouth College. She is currently pursuing an Executive MBA from the University of York and University of Strasbourg. As a lifelong learner and educator, Jovana is deeply committed to educational equity and is building a career in educational and career advising. There are no strangers in Jovana’s world - only people she has not met yet. Jovana is immensely grateful to American Councils and the YES program for giving her life a new sense of direction, inspiration, and purpose.
How to get accepted to a top U.S. University
Jovana’s speech can be found in this link:
https://youtu.be/QnMAzLztgb8
Rina Osmani ‘19
Rina Osmani is pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and English Language Teaching and has been employed as the Alumni Coordinator at the American Councils Office in North Macedonia for two years. Currently, she is coordinating the International Bridging Background Program implemented by “United by Love” NGO for young people in the Region of Balkan.
How do languages affect the way we think?
Rina’s speech can be found in this link:
https://youtu.be/XYn4dmdtCvc
Bardh Ajdini ‘13
Bardh Ajdini ‘13, an expert in the aviation industry, is currently working as an air traffic controller. With years of experience, he has extensive knowledge in air traffic management and assures the safe landing and takeoff of aircraft. He understands the complexities and responsibilities of his role and constantly trains himself to improve his decision-making and communication skills. Bardh wanted to share his knowledge during the YES Talks.
Why you shouldn’t be afraid of flying?
Bardh’s speech can be found in this link:
https://youtu.be/NzG8v_u_Hpk