Program:  Jehona Gjurgjeala, Founder & Executive Director of TOKA
 

Posted on Dec 06, 2016
 
 
Pictured are:  Dennis Dietz - Founding Chair Iowa-Kosovo Sister States, Lieutenant Tompkins - Johnston Police Department, Dave Campbell - Johnston Rotary Club President,  Jehona Gjurgjeala, Founder & Executive Director of TOKA, Lieutenant Aswegan - Johnston Police Department, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Wunn - Iowa National Guard State Partnership Program Director overseeing the partnership program between the Iowa National Guard and the Kosovo Security Force.
 
The mission of TOKA is to improve the Kosovar society by providing educational experiences that shape young people into agents of positive social change.
 
Ms. Gjurgjeala discussed the work that is being done by TOKA between Iowa and Kosovo.  Iowa and Kosovo are Sister States with Peja Kosovo being a Sister City with Johnston and the Peja Rotary Club being a Sister Rotary Club with the Johnston Rotary Club.  Important points made include:
  • Over 50% of the population of Kosovo is under 25 years of age and that group will be critical in determining Kosovo’s direction in future years.
  • Kosovo is 10% of the size of Iowa, but is more densely populated with over two million people.
  • There is a strong cultural affinity which includes a relaxed personality and a curiosity to learn, both of which are nice fits with Iowans.
  • In 2016, TOKA highlights in Kosovo included:
    • 5 summer camps.
    • 1,500 alumni.
    • 16 staff members including 1 Iowan.
    • Free camp attendance for 90% of the attendees.
    • Over 1,000 voluntary hours.
  • Youth work centers on:
    • Personal development.
    • Transferable skills.
    • Introduction to future professions.
  • Future work focuses additional opportunities in:
    • Summer camps.
    • Cross County Exchanges.
    • Scholarships.
  • Members of the Johnston Police Department have been active in supporting TOKA activities.