
NGO SHKA “Katarina Josipi” * was founded on May 4, 1970. It was named after Katarina Josipi, the first Albanian actress outside of Albania. With the formation of the ensemble, Zym became the cultural and educational center of the Hasi region. The ensemble has participated in numerous national and international festivals. Currently, its repertoire includes folk songs, dances, traditional rites, and ethnographic pieces. AEK “Katarina Josipi” has successfully performed at various festivals, including “Hasi Jehon” in Gjonaj, “I këndojmë lirisë” in Klinë, “Eshkë e ndezur mbi Deçan” in Deçan, “Anadrinia Jehon,” the F.F in Drenas, “Sofra Dardane” in Bajram Curri, “Rapsha” in Tuz, the International Festival in Velika Gorica, Croatia, “Divani Lunxhot” in Lunxheri near Gjirokastër, the “Sofra Dibrane” folklore festival in Peshkopi, the “Argjiro Fest” in Gjirokastër, and many others, earning multiple awards for its performances. SHKA “AEK “Katarina Josipi” plays a vital role in the promotion and preservation of traditional Albanian songs and dances, contributing significantly to Kosovo’s cultural heritage. By maintaining and performing a rich repertoire of folk music, dances, and rituals, the ensemble ensures that the customs, values, and traditions of the Hasi region and beyond are passed down to future generations.