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This past week, June, 3, PLAY International hosted its Gala Fundraising Night in Kosovo, an unforgettable evening of reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment to empowering youth across the Western Balkans. Held in the heart of Pristina, the event brought together long-time supporters, institutional partners, local champions, educators, and donors to celebrate what has been a transformative year for the organization.
Among the distinguished attendees was His Excellency Olivier Guerot, the French Ambassador to Kosovo—who highlighted the importance of PLAY’s work in promoting inclusion, resilience, and peace across the region.
The evening opened with a moving video montage capturing the raw emotions, laughter, and shared moments of joy experienced by children engaged in PLAY’s programs. These were not just images—they were living proof of the impact of inclusive education and sport-based methodologies on thousands of young lives. As PLAY International’s Regional Representative, Vlorian Molliqaj, stated in his keynote address, “This is the essence of what we do at PLAY International. We go beyond organizing activities—we create moments where every child feels equal, safe, and accepted for who they are.”
A Year of Achievements
In 2024, PLAY International made extraordinary strides in its mission to use sport as a tool for inclusion, education, and peace. Four new and innovative projects were launched, each focused on addressing deep-rooted social issues like ethnic division, gender-based discrimination, and the marginalization of children with disabilities.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of PLAY’s trainers and partners, over 200 educators and youth leaders were trained to facilitate inclusive, values-based play sessions. These sessions—implemented in schools, playgrounds, and community centers across Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Montenegro—reached more than 5,000 children, empowering them with critical soft skills and a sense of belonging.
The momentum extended far beyond these borders. In a significant milestone, PLAY expanded its activities to Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia—further cementing its reputation as a regional leader in sport for development.
A new identity for a broader mission
A defining moment of the night came with a powerful announcement: PLAY International Kosovo has officially become PLAY International Western Balkans.
“This is not just a name change” Mr. Molliqaj emphasized. “It reflects a whole new reality - one where borders do not limit possibility, and sport becomes a common language for equality, inclusion, and peace.”
This rebranding marks an important evolution in PLAY’s identity, recognizing its role as a bridge-builder across countries, communities, and cultures. While Kosovo remains the heart of its operations, the new name reflects the organization’s broader commitment to regional cooperation and cross-border solidarity.
Looking Ahead: Vision 2030
The gala also served as the launchpad for PLAY’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030, a visionary roadmap built around five pillars:
1. Promoting inclusive education and social equity – Ensuring every child, including those from marginalized communities, has access to meaningful, safe, and inclusive learning environments.
2. Improving health and well-being of children and youth – Addressing issues such as physical inactivity, mental health, and screen time through play and sport.
3. Advancing gender equality, child protection, and peacebuilding – Empowering girls, preventing violence, and fostering interethnic cooperation.
4. Increasing access to play and sport spaces – Creating safe, inclusive spaces for physical and social development.
5. Strengthening organizational growth and partnerships – Enhancing visibility, fundraising, and local partnerships for long-term impact.
This forward-looking strategy is a response to urgent regional needs - and to the stark reality that international development aid is shrinking. The call to action was clear: “Now more than ever, we must come together - as communities, institutions, the private sector, and individuals - to invest in children and youth.”
The power of collective support
The evening was also a celebration of generosity. As part of the BECOME A PLAYER campaign, the event highlighted the incredible contributions from sponsors and individual donors. So far, over €30,000 has been raised. With the goal of securing an additional €20,000, PLAY is poised to unlock a €50,000 match from the EBRD Community Initiative—bringing the total to €100,000 in support of inclusive, transformative programs across the region.
A heartfelt thank you was extended to the event’s Platinum Sponsor, EXFIS, and Bronze Medal Sponsors: JYSK Kosova, KFC Kosova, Besa Security, Besa Pharm, and Prishtina Mall. Their unwavering support is a cornerstone of PLAY’s growing impact.
A night to remember, and a future to build
As the night drew to a close, what lingered was not just the speeches or the numbers—but a shared sense of purpose. A reminder that behind every campaign, every session, and every partnership are children discovering their voice, their strength, and their place in the world.
In the words of PLAY’s leadership: “When we invest in children and young people, we invest in equality, justice, and the future of our country and region.”
The Gala Fundraising Night was more than a celebration. It was a declaration of hope, unity, and shared responsibility. And with new goals, growing partnerships, and unwavering dedication, PLAY International Western Balkans is just getting started.
