Albania
Albania joined the European Fashion Council in 2007. It is a founder member of the organization.
President EFC Albania
Diana Cekodhima Sokolaj
Albania Fashion Week
albaniafashionweek.com
Diana Cekodhima Sokolaj is a pioneering figure in the Albanian fashion industry and the founder of Albania Fashion Week, established in 2007. As President of EFC Albania, she has played a leading role in positioning Albania on the European and international fashion map. Her work reflects a strong commitment to nurturing creativity, empowering young talent, and fostering international collaboration across the fashion sector.
Since its foundation, Albania Fashion Week has become the flagship fashion event in the country, showcasing visionary designers from Albania, Kosovo, and the wider region, alongside established names from the United Kingdom, Spain, Turkey, Croatia, Ukraine, and beyond. The event has also collaborated with Fashion TV and other international media outlets, broadcasting Albanian creativity to global audiences.
In the same year of its establishment, Albania Fashion Week became a founding member of the European Fashion Council (2007, Ancient Plovdiv, Bulgaria), underscoring Albania’s central role in uniting European fashion under a shared vision of cultural diversity and innovation. Through its programs, AFW has consistently highlighted the creative strength of Albanian-speaking nations while building bridges with neighboring and international markets.
The mission of Albania Fashion Week is to celebrate fashion as a cultural expression, historical identity, and economic force. It aims to showcase Albania’s heritage alongside modern creativity, proving that fashion is an integral part of the country’s cultural fabric. At the same time, AFW serves as a platform for change by promoting inclusivity, diversity, and sustainability in fashion, while offering young designers an international stage to present their vision. Through its runway shows, designer showcases, and international collaborations, the event creates dialogue between Albania and the global fashion community, positioning Tirana as a hub of creativity and innovation in Southeastern Europe.
About Albania
Albania, located on the Adriatic and Ionian seas in Southeastern Europe, is a country rich in history and cultural heritage. With an ethnic history dating back more than 2500 years, it has been a crossroad of civilisations. Gaining independence in 1912, Albania today is a candidate for membership in the European Union. Its vibrant cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and dynamic cultural scene make it a growing destination for tourism, art, and fashion. Albania continues to balance its deep-rooted traditions with an increasingly global and innovative outlook, making it a unique and inspiring setting for fashion and creative industries.