Fisnik Ismaili

Born in Pristina half a century ago and persecuted by the Serbian regime 18 years later, I lived a piece of life in London for 13 years. I became a father of two boys, graduated in multimedia, and worked for 7 years as a graphic designer initially, and then as a creative leader, facing many challenges as an immigrant. The work and experience in the UK have followed me from a potter and dress seller at the market, to a shoe seller, and then a translator, to creative work for Apple Europe, Mattel, Cisco, British Airways, and Channel 4.
As an unwavering idealistic spirit, I initially became a part of the Kosovo Liberation Army (UCK), facing the war in 1999. Then I made the decision to permanently return to live and work in Pristina and Tirana in 2004, with the hope of contributing to the industry.
I am the founder of the creative agency "Karrota," with offices in Pristina (2005) and Tirana (2020), employing 35 workers. I also founded Ogilvy Albania in 2006, of which I am no longer a part, and from 2010, I was involved in politics, initially elected as a municipal council member in Pristina, and then two terms as a deputy for the Self-Determination Movement! Meanwhile, I graduated with a Master's in Corporate Communication and Public Affairs in Aberdeen, Scotland.
Over these 20 years in Kosovo and Albania, I have led over 1000 creative projects, from branding and identity to advertising campaigns for many local and international companies.
Although I am known for many creative works, what identifies me the most is the NEWBORN Monument, for which I have been awarded the Golden Lion in Cannes, Silver Clio, Silver Eurobest, Golden Drum Grand Prix, and One Show Merit Award in the environmental design category.
Currently, happy outside of politics, I continue to lead "Karrota" with Nita, my wife, whom I convinced to work together 14 years ago. We manage the Ndezu gym and the Ha mirë restaurant, and I also teach design at the University of AAB in Pristina.