Prishtina, 27 November 2025 – The International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Italian Development Cooperation, through the “HoReCa – Hospitable, Resilient, Capable Project,” hosted Taste the Future: HoReCa & Slow Food Connections today at Tech Park in Prishtina.
The event gathered over 100 participants from public institutions, the private sector, youth, educators, and international partners to explore the future of sustainable gastronomy and hospitality in Kosovo, highlighting the growing impact of the global Slow Food movement.
Building on Kosovo’s potential in rural, adventure, and culinary tourism, the event showcased how Slow Food principles can drive sustainable growth, empower youth, and inspire businesses to elevate authenticity and quality across the hospitality value chain.
The day opened with remarks from H.E. Maurizio Antonini, Ambassador of Italy to Pristina; Mr. Stephen O’Malley, UN Development Coordinator; Ms. Aferdite Shani, representing the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation – Tirana regional office; Ms. Ryve Prekorogja representing the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation and Mr. Gani Ismajli representing the Employment Agency.
Among other important points, H.E. Ambassador Maurizio Antonini emphasized that “through our programs, we have met young entrepreneurs, farmers, chefs, and teachers shaping Kosovo’s hospitality future, and we are proud to support the HoReCa project because it builds bridges between schools and businesses, tradition and innovation, and the opportunities that exist and the young people ready to seize them.”
Following the opening remarks, a high-level panel on Tradition, Sustainability, and Innovation in HoReCa examined how Kosovo’s hospitality sector can integrate Slow Food values to become more competitive and future-ready. The audience benefited from insights shared by Mr. Paolo Aprile from Progetto Made in Italy; Ms. Florina Skeja from Thana & Redon; Ms. Agnesa Rexhepi from Sonder; and Mr. Bujar Xerxa and Ms. Saranda Sahiti from Soma Slow Food, who each offered perspectives on adapting food concepts to evolving market expectations.
The afternoon session was devoted to live culinary demonstrations, where students from Vocational Education and Training Schools, Vocational Training Centres and Slow Food Dukagjini members prepared a variety of dishes, desserts, and beverages on-site. More than 40 students presented their abilities, reflecting the HoReCa project’s commitment to strengthening vocational education and training and supporting Kosovo’s next generation of hospitality professionals. At the same time, the “Career Matching” session connected local businesses with Career Centres, helping bridge skills training with real employment opportunities.
Concluding this tasteful day, a motivating visit from Michelin Star Chef Emin Haziri energized the audience and inspired students to pursue excellence, adding a memorable highlight to the event.
