“Find your roots” is more than a slogan. It is an invitation to rediscover personal history and turn heritage into lived experience.

OriginAL is a program launched by GERMIN in partnership with Global Albanians Foundation. It offers Albanian diaspora youth aged 18 to 24 a free two week educational experience in Albania and Kosova. Through study visits, open discussions, workshops, and meetings with public institutions, civil society actors, and local communities, participants strengthen their connection to identity, culture, and community.

Impact so far:

• 600+ volunteering hours conducted from participants
• 257 young people from more than 25 countries have participated (20% from the United States)
• 90% of participants say this program was a life-changing experience
• 4 participants chose to move and live in Albania (1) and Kosova (3)

OriginAL shows that when young people experience their roots firsthand, they return home not only with memories, but with purpose, commitment, and lasting connections.

Application for 2026 are open, and you can apply via www.origin-al.org