During the first half of my stay at Patoko, under the guidance of my host entrepreneur Arbër Kadia, my experience has been very positive, highly motivating, and intellectually stimulating. I have had the opportunity to participate in significant technology and entrepreneurial events in the Balkan region, which have considerably enriched my professional knowledge and understanding of the startup ecosystem.
In particular, I attended Tirana Tech at the Palace of Congresses in Tirana, which provided an invaluable opportunity to observe innovative startups, learn about emerging technologies, and understand the dynamics and challenges of the sector. Additionally, I participated in the KOSICT Festival in Prishtina (Kosovo), where I had the chance to meet a wide range of companies and present Patoko to the audience. These experiences helped me expand my professional network, strengthen my presentation and communication skills, and gain firsthand insight into different business models and entrepreneurial strategies.
On a daily basis, I actively collaborate with Arbër Kadia and his team, contributing to various aspects of the company’s operations. This includes project management, strategic planning, operational support, and coordination of ongoing initiatives. Through these activities, I have been able to understand more deeply the internal dynamics of a growing startup, learn how to prioritize tasks effectively, and develop problem-solving skills that are critical in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment. I also participate in brainstorming sessions, contribute ideas for improving processes, and assist in analyzing market trends, which allows me to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application.
The collaboration with the team has been extremely formative: the environment is dynamic, motivating, and highly collaborative. I have noticed tangible progress in my professional skills, particularly in project management, networking, strategic thinking, and understanding market needs. The guidance and feedback I receive from Arbër and his team have been invaluable, helping me gain confidence and a clearer perspective on my own professional development.
I firmly believe that the objectives of the program are being fully achieved. The support I receive is consistent and tailored, and the activities I am involved in align perfectly with the expectations of the EYE exchange. For the remainder of my stay, I consider it highly beneficial to continue participating in external events, networking opportunities, and close collaboration with the team, as these experiences provide invaluable learning and growth opportunities.
Overall, the first half of my exchange has been extremely constructive and has already contributed significantly to my personal and professional development. I feel well-prepared and motivated to continue building on these experiences during the second half of my stay, with the aim of maximizing learning, gaining deeper insights into the entrepreneurial world, and contributing further to the success of Patoko.