KALLXO.com journalist Florinda Kelmendi was awarded, on Thursday, second place  in a mobile journalism competition with her article “The Young Man with Down Syndrome Who Excels in Both Education and Employment.” 

Kelmendi’s winning story highlights the journey of 23-year-old Gentrit Ahmeti, a young man from Mitrovica with Down syndrome, showcasing both the challenges he has faced and his successes in securing equal opportunities in education and employment.

Speaking about the award, Kelmendi emphasised the importance of providing people like Ahmeti with opportunities to express their creativity and contribute to society.

“When I entered a cafe, my coffee was served by a young man with Down syndrome. He was energetic and genuinely enjoyed his work. These individuals receive more attention when workplaces and spaces for creativity are made available to them,” Kelmendi stated.

The story was produced using the Mobile Journalism, MoJo, format, which offers journalists greater creativity and flexibility in their work. This format allows journalists to complete their entire reporting process using just a mobile phone, making journalism more accessible and efficient.

The award was presented as part of a mobile journalism project supported by the online media platforms ‘Telegrafi’ and ‘Shqip.al.’

A total of 67 participants from across Kosovo participated in the project. 

First place was awarded to Velard Paqarizi for his story “Azemi and His Wheelchair: A Story of Dedication on the Streets of (Prizren’s) Shatërvan (neighbourhood).” Third place went to Leart Qeli for his story “Luan Qukani, the Potter of Gjakova Who Preserves His Family’s Pottery Tradition Across Four Generations.”