For every child in Mamurras, a place to belong
Creating safe spaces, strong voices, and brighter futures in Mamurras.
Going to a day centre to play and laugh with friends might seem ordinary for many children. But not for the children of Mamurras.
The opening of the “Children’s Voice” Centre—the first of its kind in Mamurras—marks a turning point. In just three weeks, nearly 70 children have regularly attended. The centre is more than a safe space; it’s a place where children find joy, learn, and receive support to grow. The centre stands as a promise: that every child deserves to thrive, no matter their background.
Working in partnership with the Municipality of Kurbin and Together for Life, this initiative provides integrated, child-focused services. Through psychosocial support, creative activities, educational assistance, and positive parenting classes, families receive the tools they need to overcome challenges.
At the center, we met Eridona, an early childhood teacher who proudly smiles at us.
“I’m so happy these children finally have a place like this. They need after-school activities. Parents are relieved too, knowing their children are safe and learning,” she tells us.
Another mother from the Roma community approached us and she shared:
I’m a mother of four. As soon as I heard about the centre, I registered my children. We work all day to survive – now I know they are in a safe place, learning and growing.
In the parenting sessions, led by psychologist Lavdërim Mulaj, we saw only mothers at first. But Lavdërim, father of two girls himself, is determined to change that: “Raising children is not just a mother’s job. I want boys and girls to grow up knowing both parents care equally”.
Majlinda Cara, the Mayor of Kurbin, has pledged the municipality’s future commitment to sustain the centre and ensure long-term investments in child well-being.
Edina Kozma, UNICEF’s Deputy Representative, thanked the European Union for its support in strengthening social inclusion in Albania.
“If every municipality allocates funds for such services, this model must be replicated so no child is left behind.”
A community builder such as Ardita
For Ardita Kenaj, project coordinator and a former resident of Mamurras, coming home to serve her community was deeply personal.
Mamurras is a small town that has welcomed residents from all regions of Albania for years, even though many have since moved away. One of those families is Ardita’s family, which relocated to Tirana 23 years ago but has always maintained strong ties to Mamurras.
After 22 years, fate brought her back to her birthplace to help establish the "Voice of Children." She recognized it was challenging at first, but not impossible. The municipality was also committed, but many things were accomplished through her family's connections with the town and the community.
In small places, things get done through connections. Is this the right way? Certainly not, but when the end justifies the means, especially when it comes to children, it can feel justified. The community welcomed it enthusiastically, as such a center was greatly needed in the town. Social services for children are a cornerstone of a healthier society, and I believe more investment is needed in this direction,” says Ardita proudly.
“I feel more rewarded having had the opportunity to contribute to the development of the community in my childhood town, Mamurras, the former City of Mimosas,” concludes Ardita.
Meet Generation Alpha
We met Vanesa, a nine-year-old, among the children who showcased a mini-performance at the “Voices of Children” center in Mamurras. We met her after the performance, dressed in her beautiful traditional attire. Her cheeks flushed from dancing, and her eyes sparkled. With her impressive English skills at such a young age, she became our youngest translator. UNICEF Deputy Representative Edina Kozma engaged in a friendly conversation with Vanesa and the other kids. She hopes to be a teacher. Why not an excellent English teacher? Joining the group is Erik, a 6-year-old who speaks English with us and shares his love for sports. He dreams of becoming a police officer one day to protect his community from wrongdoers.
Their dreams remind us that the world we create for children today will shape the future for all of us.
The “Children’s Voice” Centre is part of the “EU for Social Care” program, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNICEF and World Vision Albania. It proves what is achievable when communities, governments, and partners unite for every child.
