On this day in 2018, the three directors of Open Data Kosovo, Blerta Thaçi, Dafina O. Olluri and Blina Meta Shala, were featured on Forbes. Open Data Kosovo is a nonprofit organization working towards using technology and digital humanitarianism to increase government transparency. Forbes’ 30 under 30 list recognised the three Kosovar women as part of the Law and Policy list to highlight their achievements in social engagement, government transparency and digital activism. This list rewards discoverers, leaders and entrepreneurs in Europe who are changing the world as we know it. This achievement puts Kosova in line with leading European countries including England, Germany and Denmark.

Since the establishment of Open Data Kosovo in 2014, the NGO has realized many successful projects, which contribute to the vibrancy of the local tech scene and promotes the continuous education of young people on the use of technology in Kosova. Some of these projects and initiatives include: #techstitution, #tech4policy and #techsperience which has stimulated the transparency of government institutions, as well as created opportunities to digitize various services used by citizens. In addition, Open Data Kosovo provide mentorship and training in order to engage local software developers to develop applications for social good by leveraging Kosova’s open data. Further, the directors at Open Data Kosovo have created many opportunities for young women in STEM – acting both as role models as well as founders of various initiatives including Girls Coding Kosova. Through their work with open data, this recognition has contributed significantly in promoting the tech scene in Kosovo on the international stage, as well as benefitted the citizens of Kosovo through their work on increasing transparency and engaging youth.