Meet the Team
Richard S. Lukaj
Honorary Chairman
Richard S. Lukaj is a prominent Albanian-American leader recognized for his advocacy, philanthropy, and efforts to promote economic development and democracy in Southeastern Europe. He served as Chairman of the National Albanian American Council (NAAC) and was appointed Honorary Consul of Albania to the United States. Known as a bridge between the Balkans and the international community, he has advised diplomats, governments, and corporations on investment and policy initiatives.
Lukaj co-founded the American University in Kosova (with RIT and Dartmouth) and the Hope Fellowship program with USAID, advancing education and women’s leadership in the Balkans. He led initiatives such as the Hands of Hope campaign and Action for Mothers and Children, providing critical healthcare and aid across the region.
Through the Lukaj Foundation, he has promoted investment, organized investor conferences, and led delegations with U.S. and international leaders, including visits by President Bill Clinton and Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Active with cultural and educational institutions, Lukaj is regarded as a non-partisan advocate for Albania, Kosova, and neighboring countries, working closely with entities such as USAID, the World Bank, NATO, and the UN.
He is married to Viosa from Korça, and they have two daughters, Zana and Layla.
Honorary Leadership
Governance
George Xhabija
Chairman
George is a finance professional specializing in mergers and acquisitions and has been actively involved with the Albanian community through his leadership at the AYC. He joined AYC in 2021 as Treasurer and was later selected to chair the organization in 2023.
Born and raised in Tiranë, Albania, he completed his graduate studies in Finance at the University of Toronto. In his role at AYC, he has overseen the growth of the children’s program and played a leading role in organizing the annual flag-raising ceremonies that unite the Albanian communities of Stamford and Connecticut.
Feim Dauti
Treasurer
Feim originates from Ladorisht, Macedonia and brings two years of experience in financial services. Since 2024, he has have proudly served as Treasurer and Operational Assistant with the AYC. Grateful to be in the company of such dedicated faculty, staff, and students, Feim looks forward to supporting the cultural and academic growth of the next generation while continuing to build meaningful connections within the community.
Lejdina Gecaj
Social Media Coordinator
Lejdina is a first generation Albanian in the U.S. whose family comes from LLukë e Poshtme, Kosova. She first joined AYC in 2023 as a volunteer and soon became dedicated to supporting its mission of empowering youth and preserving Albanian culture. Lejdina combines her communications experience with her deep connection to her heritage to help grow AYC’s online presence and community engagement. She is passionate about creating spaces where Albanian youth and families can celebrate their identity and thrive together.
Academic Team
Academic Director
Violeta Lamnica
Violeta was born in Tropojë, Albania. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Education from Hunter College and is Licensed from New York State as an Assistant Teacher. She currently enjoys working with students at a public school in Bronx, NY. She focuses on small group activities and hands-on learning experiences. In Summer, 2025, Violeta completed the Seminary XVII Mbarekombetat "Gjuha Shipe dhe Kultura Shqiptare ne Epoken Digital". Violeta has interests in multiple curricular areas and inspires and encourages students through experience and commitment to reach their full potential and be the best they can. Violeta has been apart of the AYC team since 2017.
Program Coordinator
Lumturie Memia
Lumturie was born in Tropojë, Albania. Lumturie holds a Bachelor and Master Degrees in Albanian Literature respectively from University "Luigi Gurakuqi" in Shkoder and University of Tirana. Lumturie has 22-years teaching experience from Albania. She moved to USA in 2017 and received an Assistant Teacher License from NYC Department of Education in 2018. Her lifetime experience as an educator has shaped many young minds and aspires to continue to do so. Lumturie is highly respected by her peers and the community and has become a role model to many. Lumturie has been apart of the AYC team since 2017.
Jolanda Sallaku
Teacher
Jolanda was born in Lushnjë, Albania. Jolanda graduated art school in Elbasan, Albania and was appointed as a teacher in her hometown of Lushnjë. In 1999, Jolanda moved to the USA and quotes, “like all immigrants, I started everything from scratch” and began learning English at Housatonic Community College. Jolanda has over 20 years of teaching experience and qualifications as a first-grade teacher. Jolanda has been with AYC since 2020 and specializes in teaching the Albanian language and beautiful Albanian songs. Jolanda takes pride in teaching the next generations of Albanians here in the USA.
Nereida Rama
Teacher
Nerieda is originally from Tiranë, Albania. She holds a MA in French from the University of South Carolina, and a MEd in International Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Nerieda has a passion for education which shines through her various roles in higher and secondary education. Nerieda currently holds a positions as a World Language public school teacher in Stamford, CT. At AYC, she is dedicated to supporting youth and helping preserve Albanian culture through education and community engagement. Nerieda has been apart of the AYC team since 2022.
Arts & Culture
Angjelina Nika
Choreographer
Angjelina Nika is a celebrated choreographer with over 20 years of experience teaching and promoting Albanian folk dancing. Born in Tropojë, Albania, into a family deeply rooted in tradition, she developed a passion for dance early on, driven by a desire to preserve her cultural heritage. Throughout her career, she has specialized in diverse regional styles, emphasizing both the technical intricacies and cultural significance of each dance. As a respected instructor, she is known for instilling pride and identity in her students while passing down the stories and symbolism behind the movements. Beyond teaching, Angjelina has organized performances and workshops worldwide, blending traditional and contemporary elements to showcase the richness of Albanian dance. Her work has earned her widespread recognition, including the prestigious title "Mjeshter I Madh" awarded by the President of Albania. Today, she continues to mentor aspiring dancers and collaborate with cultural institutions, ensuring the enduring legacy of Albanian folk dance. Angjelina has been with AYC since 2016.
Sports & Wellness
Greg Loomis
Youth Sports Coach
With over 10 years of experience as a trainer, sports coach, and fitness professional, Greg is a certified boxing coach and former amateur boxer. He previously served as Wellness Director at the Greenwich YMCA and now owns two boxing gyms in town—Greenwich Boxing Saint Roch and Greenwich Boxing OG—where he coaches athletes and helps people of all ages build strength, skill, and confidence.