About the Author
Shefqet Meko, an accomplished Albanian-American author, has dedicated his life to storytelling, journalism, and bridging cultures. Born in 1959 in the picturesque town of Pogradec, Albania, Meko demonstrated a passion for writing early in life. As a student, he became editor-in-chief of “The Student of Agriculture ” newspaper, a role that foreshadowed his future in media and communication.
In 1983, Meko graduated from the Higher Institute of Agriculture as a veterinarian, yet his passion for journalism remained strong. He furthered his studies with a master’s degree in Journalism and Communication from the University of Tirana in 1985.
Following the collapse of communism in Albania, Meko emerged as a prominent journalist and civic activist. He contributed significantly to Radio-Tirana, Albania’s national radio station, and played a pioneering role in agricultural journalism as the first President of the Albanian Agricultural Journalist Association (AAJA). He also founded the Research Center for Rural Development (RCRD), championing rural progress in Albania.
In 1999, Meko and his family immigrated to Minnesota to pursue the American dream. As a green card holder, he embraced the challenges of building a new life and tested the boundaries of American freedom. By 2005, he proudly became a U.S. citizen.
“The Wonder of America” by Derric Johnson to share inspiring stories of the U.S. with Albanian readers. In Minneapolis, he has united and empowered the Albanian-American community, founding and leading the Albanian-American Institute of Relations & Contributions (AAIRC).
Currently, Meko is an independent entrepreneur in the real estate industry and continues his passion for writing. His literary achievements include several books published in Albania and his works in English: “The American Visa” and “Saga across the Atlantic”.
Shefqet Meko’s story is one of resilience, cultural exchange, and unwavering dedication to his dual homelands, inspiring readers and communities on both sides of the Atlantic.
Meko has been a cultural bridge between Albania and the United States, translating and publishing The Wonder of America by Derric Johnson to share inspiring stories of the U.S. with Albanian readers. In Minneapolis, he has united and empowered the Albanian-American community, founding and leading the Albanian-American Institute of Relations & Contributions (AAIRC).
Currently, Meko is an independent entrepreneur in the real estate industry and continues his passion for writing. His literary achievements include several books published in Albania and his works in English: The American Visa and Dilemma of Casting the Vote.
Shefqet Meko’s story is one of resilience, cultural exchange, and unwavering dedication to his dual homelands, inspiring readers and communities on both sides of the Atlantic.
Shefqet Meko, an accomplished Albanian-American author, has dedicated his life to storytelling, journalism, and bridging cultures. Born in 1959 in the picturesque town of Pogradec, Albania, Meko demonstrated a passion for writing early in life. As a student, he became editor-in-chief of “The Student of Agriculture” newspaper, a role that foreshadowed his future in media and communication.
The American Visa is a compelling narrative about Artan Pojani, a principled and hopeful Albanian beekeeper whose dream of visiting the United States.
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