This collaboration has resulted in the establishment of a state-of-the-art YMCA Digital Hub, Powered by HP, representing a significant step towards bridging the digital divide in the region.
The partnership between YMCA and HP, renowned global technology leaders, has yielded innovative solutions to address the pressing need for digital infrastructure and skills enhancement in the West Balkans and beyond. Through their joint efforts, several digital hubs have been established, with the hub in Tirana being a shining example of their commitment to creating inclusive digital spaces.
This programme builds on the wider partnership between the YMCA and HP, which was launched In January 2022, to accelerate digital equity of young people and underserved communities around the world.
The digital community hub in Tirana serves as a catalyst for digital transformation and community engagement. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and resources, the hub aims to provide individuals, particularly youth and marginalised communities, with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in the digital era. By offering access to training programs, workshops, and collaborative spaces, the hub will empower participants to acquire essential digital skills, foster innovation, and pursue their educational and professional aspirations.
“HP is committed to accelerating digital equity for 150 million people by 2030 and we’re proud to partner with YMCA to help narrow the digital divide,” said Ina Progonati, HP Global Lead for Sustainability and Social Impact Partnerships and Programs. “The opening of the YMCA Digital Hub in Tirana is particularly meaningful for me, having grown up in the city myself.”
With the official launch of the Tirana Digital Hub, YMCA and HP are excited to invite key stakeholders, government officials, community leaders, and esteemed guests to come together and celebrate this significant milestone. The event will feature an engaging program that showcases the hub’s transformative impact on the local community and highlights success stories of individuals who have benefited from the resources and opportunities provided.
Furthermore, representatives from YMCA, HP, and local partners will share insights on the long-term vision and sustainability of the hub, emphasising its role in driving economic growth, social inclusion, and digital advancement in Tirana and beyond.
The official launch event will take place on June 7th, 2023, 12.00 p.m, at Qendra Multifunksionale “Te qendrojme se bashku”, rr.e Kavajes, ish- Kombinati Misto Mame, in Tirana. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the hub’s facilities, interact with the cutting-edge technology on display, and engage in discussions about the future of digital innovation and community development. In the end all the guests are invited to a reception.
For further information about the digital community hub in Tirana, please visit https://ymcaeurope.com/stories-from-the-digital-community-hubs-in-albania. Members of the press and media are invited to attend the launch event and are encouraged to RSVP by June 5th, 2023, to secure their participation.
Agenda
- 11:00 – 11:30 Registration of the participants
- 11:30 – 11:50 Welcoming and introduction of the project – by YMCA
- 11:50 – 12:00 Greetings from representative of the Tirana Municipality
- 12:00 – 12:15 Speech of HP support in the region and globally
- 12:15 – 12:45 Stories and testimony by beneficiaries
- 13:00 – Reception
Contact:
Eglantina Lula
YMCA Albania
Email: ymcatirana@gmail.com
Mob: 00355 69 5610512
YMCA Europe is an umbrella organisation that serves 37 national YMCAs throughout Europe. Collectively there are more than 3,200 local YMCAs, involving approximately 18,500 members of staff, more than 95,000 volunteers and impacting over 2,000,000 beneficiaries.
YMCA Albania is a national centre which aims to empower young people, by assisting and strengthening communities’ development. Since 2014 functioning in Albania, our centre offers different services including youth development, education and training skills, and community outreach. Since February 2023, we are offering digital hub services to different target groups and community members in Tirana and Berat, in close collaboration with local governments aiming to reach about 6000 beneficiaries by the end of this year.
Tirana, Albania, 24/05/2023
