LocationsBreaking Barriers: Dzeko’s Journey from an illegal migrant to successful entrepreneur
October 17, 2024
When he talks about his life path, the eyes of the 25-year-old Dzevdet Jasharoski from Prilep radiate with enthusiasm, passion and excitement. While he moves through the narrow streets of the Prilep bazaar, he greets other shopkeepers, wishing them a nice day and success in their work.
“Dzeko” – his sales name - is now a proud owner of a small kitchenware shop located in one of the small stone alleyways. After several years of illegal stay in Germany with his family doing various manual jobs, the family failed to arrange for their legal documents and returned home few years ago. The decision was a difficult one to make, but it was the only right decision.
“I worked mostly in animal farm. It was a very interesting job, but unfortunately, we were unable to sort out the legal affairs and arrange our stay. We returned home and I didn’t know what to do… I wanted to work, to make my own money, but I didn’t know what kind of job to do or how to start…” – this young man starts his story.
Two years after he came back home from the EU, Dzeko was able to get on his feet again with a determination to re-build his life back home. He decided to apply to the Self- Employment programme, supported by the EU-funded UNDP implemented Regional Returnee Reintegration Project. The programme gave him the means to turn his business idea into reality, with mentoring and financial support provided.
“I heard about the possibility of opening my own business through the non-governmental organization. I immediately liked the idea and didn’t give it much thought. I attended the training, which helped me a lot, I was selected and received the grant. I fixed up the shop and started… I’m not afraid to look forward, to make plans. I like to work, maybe sometimes I will fail, but I will never stop trying to do my best.” – the young entrepreneur underlines.
This young man was activated on the labor market through the efforts of the non-governmental organization “ROMA – Perspective”, which actively works on the ground in Prilep with returnees who returned to their home country. As part of the project, more than 200 returnees took part in several project interventions aimed at increasing employability and opening employment opportunities for Roma returnees in local communities.
“Within the framework of the project, we are working on several activities related to the activation of Roma returnees at the local level. The Self-Employment programme is one of the opportunities for people with a business idea to get support to start their business. We follow them every step of the way, mentor them, plan together, identify risks and give realistic assessments for the future.” – emphasizes Sami Aydini from the non-governmental organization.
The dream of the ambitious and hardworking entrepreneur Dzevdet does not stop here. He is already planning his next steps to expand the business and even open a second store with his wife.
“When you work, you are never at a loss. I only hope there is work to do, the rest is easier.”
The EU-funded UNDP-implemented Regional Returnee Reintegration Project empowers Roma returnees in Albania, North Macedonia, and Serbia, enabling them to build a better life back home through entrepreneurship and enhanced skills. We advocate for and spur systemic change related to Roma returnee inclusion into the labor market for decent employment and for enhanced access to services.
