Building Safer Communities
Through Empowerment
ESD Albania is dedicated to creating safer communities through empowerment self-defense education, training, and advocacy. We believe everyone deserves to feel safe, confident, and empowered.
Our Mission
To empower individuals and communities in Albania through comprehensive self-defense education that builds confidence, awareness, and practical skills for personal safety and community well-being.
We work to create a culture where everyone—regardless of age, gender, or background—has access to empowerment self-defense training that respects their individual needs and circumstances.
Our Vision
A safer Albania where every person feels empowered, confident, and equipped with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves and support their communities.
What We Do
ESD Albania offers comprehensive programs and services designed to build safer, more empowered communities.
Community Workshops
Interactive workshops for community groups, schools, and organizations focusing on practical empowerment self-defense skills and awareness.
Instructor Training
Comprehensive training programs for individuals who want to become certified ESD instructors and lead their own community programs.
Specialized Programs
Tailored programs for specific populations including youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for all.
Community Partnerships
Collaborations with local organizations, schools, and government agencies to expand the reach and impact of empowerment self-defense education.
Support Services
Ongoing support and resources for participants, including follow-up sessions, community building activities, and referral services.
International Collaboration
Active participation in the global ESD community through partnerships with ESD Europe and the International Association of ESD Professionals.
Our Approach
ESD Albania follows evidence-based, trauma-informed practices that prioritize participant safety, choice, and empowerment.
Participant-Centered
Every program is designed around the needs, experiences, and goals of participants, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.
Culturally Responsive
Our programs respect and incorporate Albanian cultural values while promoting universal principles of safety and empowerment.
Inclusive & Accessible
We work to ensure our programs are accessible to people of all abilities, backgrounds, and circumstances.
Evidence-Based
Our methods are grounded in research and best practices from the international ESD community, adapted for local contexts.
Community-Building
We foster connections and support networks among participants, creating lasting communities of empowerment and mutual aid.
Continuous Learning
We continuously evaluate and improve our programs based on participant feedback and emerging best practices.
Our Impact
Since our founding, ESD Albania has made a meaningful difference in communities across the country.
Leadership Team
Our dedicated team brings together expertise in empowerment self-defense, community organizing, and social change.
Founder and Lead Instructor
Gentiana Susaj
Gentiana Susaj is a networker, pathfinder, and founder advocating for anti-violence initiatives and supporting mechanisms. She is an HR lawyer, Aikido black belt, empowerment trainer specialized in Self Defense and IMPACT Personal Safety.
Uendi Hiso
Project Assistant
She is a dedicated professional with a passion for positive change, actively contributing to initiatives promoting gender equality, democratic values, and human rights.