AADF Launches PENA, a New Professional Development Program for Emerging Journalists

Tirana, September 21, 2026 – The Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF) launched PENA – Press Education & Newsroom Access, a new fellowship program dedicated to the professional development of emerging Albanian journalists.

The launch event took place at the Pyramid of Tirana and brought together representatives from Albania’s journalism and media community.

Opening the event, Martin Mata, Executive Director of AADF, presented the vision behind the initiative and highlighted the importance of investing in the professional development of the next generation of journalists.

“The decision to enter this field was made after careful and extensive consideration. PENA was created in response to a need we identified within the media community and from our belief that professional development requires concrete opportunities, exposure, and hands-on experience. Over the years, AADF has built strong experience through fellowship programs such as LEAD Albania and MIP, and what continues to guide us is our passion for creating the opportunities Albania needs. We are confident that PENA will provide a highly valuable experience for everyone who becomes part of it. Ultimately, the most valuable investment we can make is an investment in young people,” said Mr. Mata.

Special guest Robert Rakipllari, a prominent journalist, spoke about the importance of programs such as PENA in supporting journalists’ professional growth, exposing them to new practices, and strengthening journalistic standards.

Alda Shabani, Project Manager at AADF, presented the program and its main components:

“PENA has been designed as a nine-month professional development experience built around three key components: professional education, a three-month fellowship in the United States, and the development of an individual journalism project, supported by mentorship throughout the program.”

From January through March, participants will complete 48 hours of advanced training in areas including journalism ethics, investigative methods, and journalism in the age of Artificial Intelligence, led by international and Albanian experts.

During the second phase, from April through June, participants will undertake a three-month fellowship with established media organizations in the United States, gaining first-hand newsroom experience and building international professional networks. Selected fellows will participate in all components of the program with financial support provided by AADF.

The final phase, running from July through September, will give participants the opportunity to develop an individual journalism project aligned with their expertise and professional interests. Microgrants will also be made available to support research, while the final project will become part of each participant’s professional portfolio.

The program is designed for emerging journalists who demonstrate potential, professional curiosity, and a strong desire to grow, develop new ideas, and turn them into tangible results.

Applications Are Now Open

With the launch of PENA, applications are officially open from September 21 through November 1, 2026.

Applicants must be Albanian citizens between the ages of 22 and 32, have at least two years of professional experience in journalism, demonstrate a strong command of English, and hold a university degree. Candidates must also submit examples of journalistic work produced within the past two years.

Interested candidates can apply at:

APPLICATIONLINKAPPLICATION LINK

For more information: pena@aadf.org

Instagram: @Pena_fellowship
Facebook: PENA Fellowship
LinkedIn: PENA Fellowship

Through PENA, AADF aims to build a bridge between professional education, international exposure, and hands-on experience, investing in a new generation of journalists equipped to adapt to the rapid transformation of media and journalism.

About AADF

The Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF) is a nonprofit organization working to create long-term impact on Albania’s economic and social development. Through strategic investments in areas such as education, leadership, entrepreneurship, tourism, and cultural heritage, AADF supports initiatives that strengthen human capital, institutions, and development ecosystems.

With a sustainable financial model and a results-driven approach, AADF seeks to create opportunities that generate measurable and lasting impact for Albania.