Valentin Cela – AY President
Valentin loves how the Quran helps him connect with God. He appreciates that it allows him to pray and talk to God directly, without needing anyone else’s intercession. The Quran also contains wisdom about the future of humanity, which was unknown at the time it was written. This makes Valentin think deeply about God’s plan for the world and feel humble before the Creator.
Dostoevsky’s novel The Brothers Karamazov captivates Valentin with its exploration of morality, faith, and the human mind. The characters engage in deep conversations about the existence of God, the nature of good and evil, and the struggles of faith. Valentin sees his own thoughts and questions reflected in their struggles. He admires how the novel challenges readers to reflect on their beliefs and the consequences of their actions.
Armela Rexha – VP of Marketing
“Even the sun of the worst day will set.” This quote has lingered in my mind ever since I first read Khaled Hosseini’s trilogy. As I, immersed myself in The Kite Runner, A Thousand Splendid Suns, and And the Mountains Echoed, I was captivated by how Hosseini’s stories navigate the shadows of human experience while holding out a glimmer of hope. Each novel is more than just a story; it’s an exploration of the profound struggles and surprising strengths that define our lives. For me, these books have become a lens through which I view the world, revealing the power of resilience and the promise of light, even in the darkest of times.
The Kite Runner was the first book by Hosseini that I encountered, and it left a profound impact. The tale of Amir’s quest for redemption amidst the chaos of a war-torn Afghanistan struck a deep chord with me. As Amir grappled with his guilt and sought forgiveness, I was drawn into his emotional journey, feeling every moment of his struggle and growth. The novel’s exploration of forgiveness and personal atonement reminded me of the importance of facing our past and striving to make things right, no matter how daunting the task may seem.
A Thousand Splendid Suns took me on another powerful journey, this time through the lives of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila. Their intertwined stories of endurance and love, set against a backdrop of relentless oppression, highlighted the extraordinary strength of the human spirit. Mariam and Laila’s resilience in the face of adversity deeply resonated with me, showcasing how hope and compassion can endure even in the most challenging circumstances.
And the Mountains Echoed, Hosseini broadened his narrative to connect multiple characters and stories across generations and geographies. This novel captivated me with its exploration of how personal choices ripple through time and influence others. It beautifully illustrated the intricate web of human connections and the universal quest for meaning, enriching my understanding of how we are all linked by our shared experiences.
Reflecting on these novels, I am reminded of a touching moment in The Kite Runner, when Amir sells his shoes to buy a gift for his sister, doing so without her knowing. It’s a poignant example of selfless love and sacrifice. In my own life, this story reinforces the importance of bringing joy to others without expecting anything in return. It’s a lesson to show love and kindness daily to those we care about, to give without expecting, and to make the lives of those we love a little brighter
Alesio Vrapi – VP of Operations and Production
Alesio finds “Rich Dad Poor Dad” particularly impactful due to its insightful financial wisdom and practical advice. The quote, “Being broke is temporary but being poor is for life, that’s why aim for the sky,” deeply resonates with him. It highlights the distinction between fleeting financial difficulties and a limiting mindset. The book challenges traditional views on money and encourages readers to pursue financial education and independence. For Alesio, it serves as a powerful motivator, reinforcing the idea that setbacks are merely temporary obstacles on the path to achieving greater financial success.
Ina Shehi – VP of Finance
“When Nietzsche Wept” by Irvin D. Yalom has become one of my favorite books because it hits that perfect balance between being deep and totally relatable. The story imagines this fascinating scenario where Nietzsche, the famous philosopher, meets with Dr. Josef Breuer, one of the early pioneers of psychology. Their conversations are so intense and thought-provoking that I found myself reflecting on my own life, my fears, and what I really want out of it. It’s like the book knows exactly how to touch on those big questions we all think about but don’t always know how to put into words.
What really hooked me, though, was how real and human the characters felt. Even though the story is set in 19th-century Vienna, the struggles they go through—like finding purpose and dealing with emotional pain—are just as relevant today. It’s not just a book that entertains; it made me think and feel in ways I didn’t expect. If you’re into stories that make you reflect on life while still keeping you totally engaged, I think you’d love it as much as I do.
Lurio Neli – Director of Finance
Zorba the Greek it’s my favourite book of all time as it shows the duality of the human experience. Zorba the total man who enjoys life to the fullest by working, eating, dancing, loving. The narrator, the man who is calculating and safe. He thinks he is above the “simple” Zorba.
Zorba has lived 100 lives compared to the narrator. Yet, the narrator considers Zorba a brute. Meant to be an offensive remark but man is a brute. To not be brute is not human. I see myself in this book. Trying to balance my life between the bookworm and the man who lives for today and not tomorrow. I love Zorba’s ways. I too have many passions and love music. I too have fallen victim to reading and thinking I know it all.
It may be that the love I have for this book is based on the fact that I’ve known men and women like Zorba. Zorba is the most non fictitious character written.
Something has to be said of the writing. Nikos Kazantzakis, I’ve read the novel many times and each time I find myself in the narrator’s head. This may seem as a regular thing for first person’s books, however none deliver the intimacy of thoughts that Nikos does.
I would like to leave you with one of my favourite passages from Zorba the Greek.
He asked him, ” Zorba, what have you got that makes you dance and sing?” He was not aware what the answer will be.
Zorba said, “This is strange! Dance is an end in itself. You don’t have to have something else in order to dance. You don’t need something first, to sing or to play on your musical instrument. If I were waiting for some great thing to happen to me, that I will dance when I am in the White House…”
Klavi Azisllari – VP of Human Resources
In reading Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist” I found a beautifully crafted tale that resonates deeply with the human experience of aspiration and the treasures we often overlook. The story follows Santiago, a young shepherd who dreams of discovering hidden treasure near the pyramids of Egypt. Driven by his desire for more, he embarks on a transformative journey across deserts and through various cultures.
One of the most powerful lessons I took away from the book is when Santiago learns that the treasure he sought was buried back in Spain, under the sycamore tree where he first had his dream. This revelation struck me as a poignant reminder that in our relentless pursuit of more—whether it be wealth, success, or adventure—we often overlook the value of what we already have.
Santiago’s journey teaches us that true fulfillment comes not just from external achievements but also from the wisdom gained through experiences and the connections we forge along the way. Ultimately, “The Alchemist” encourages us to cherish our present circumstances and recognize that sometimes, the greatest treasures lie within our own hearts and homes.
Jurgena Thercaj – VP Social and Digital Content
My favourite book so far is « Who Moved My Cheese? » because it presents a clear and easy-to-understand message about dealing with change. Through a simple story about mice searching for cheese, the book shows that we need to be flexible and ready to move on when things change. It encourages us not to get stuck in old habits but to keep looking for new opportunities, which helps us stay positive and proactive.
Additionally, the book highlights the problem with overthinking. It illustrates how spending too much time worrying can prevent us from taking action and finding new success. By focusing on taking practical steps and being adaptable, we can overcome challenges more effectively. This straightforward approach makes the book a helpful guide for navigating life’s changes with confidence.
Mario Cani – VP Creativity, Innovation, and External Affairs
1984 by George Orwell is my favourite book of all time. This masterpiece was far ahead of its time and shows striking parallels to the world We live in today as well as systems we have seen established in different parts of the world throughout history. it details the establishment of totalitarian systems not too far off from those we have seen come to power throughout our lifetimes.
One of the most powerful quotes from the book for me was “the party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears it was their final most central command, and if all others accepted the lie which the party imposed if all records told the same tale then the lie passed into history and became truth”. This resonates to all who have had any experience with totalitarian systems as one of the key features of a system of that sort is the ability to subvert dissent if you can convince a society to ignore its own senses dissent can never prosper.
Thus creating the final and most essential command; no truth exists outside of the parties dictates and anyone who has a different opinion can easily be branded a heretic and be punished accordingly. Another quote that lends its self to the mind control of totalitarianism and manipulation of masses“.
Every record has been destroyed or falsified every book rewritten every picture has been repainted. Every statue and building has been renamed. Every day has been altered….. History has stopped. Nothing exists, except an endless present in which the party is always right.”
This leaves the reader not only questioning those societies which are broadly considered totalitarian but instead forces the reader to examine their own society regardless of what positive regard they might hold it in… for after all who is to say we have not also been led to believe a set of “historical facts” that lend themselves to positive sentiment towards the powers that be.
After all history is a messy business…. one mans history to another is but a fallacy
Kejvi Peti – VP of Technology
There are two books that have drastically changed the way that i think in life. I will present you with both and the reasons why.
The intriguing story of Veronica, in “Veronica decides to die” from Paulo Coelho, a woman in her mid-twenties who seemed to have everything but decides to kill herself, is a tale of madness, partially based on the author’s personal experience in mental institutions. This book taught me the invaluable lesson to fall in love with life, cherish things we might find insignificant, and approach life with a little madness.
The other book that is very dear to me is “Free” by Lea Ypi. This book holds a special place in my heart. I read it while living alone in Canada, far from my home country, Albania. During that time, I observed cultural differences and noticed the different upbringings of my Canadian friends.
The book taught me about the hardships my parents and grandparents faced in a country torn between the fear of a communist regime and the dream of a free democratic nation. It made me appreciate their hard work and sacrifices, which allowed me to become who I am today, and it strengthened my pride in that small but mighty country.
Jurgen Lulo – VP of expansion & partnerships
Jurgen finds deep value in Malcolm Gladwell’s Talking to Strangers. The book resonates with him because it explores the complexities of human interactions and the often misunderstood intentions behind them. Jurgen appreciates how the book challenges his assumptions and encourages him to think critically about how we communicate and perceive others. The insights from Talking to Strangers make him reflect on the importance of empathy and understanding in daily life, leaving him with a sense of humility and a greater awareness of the nuances in human relationships.