Elvis Ali

Very often and unfortunately, the love between people is a forgotten issue 

In the column "People" we present individuals active in the civic sector in Macedonia, as well as abroad. Our goal is to present them not only from the aspect of their professional engagement, but also as individuals with their own, special interests, affinities and attitudes. We will tend to bring these people closer to the broader public, a through them, to popularise and encourage the civic engagement in Macedonia. This time, we present Mr. Elvis Ali, employed at the European Agency for Reconstruction in Skopje, programme assistant of the Civil Society and Social Development Programme.

Professional experience: Eight-year working experience, since 1995 

Engagements at the NGO sector: Five years, since 1998 

Hobbies and interests: Working, basketball, reading, listening to music, socialising, watching science fiction films...and then - working again. 

What does he read in his free time: When (if) he has it - religious and scientific books. 

Where does he go in his free time: Sometimes (lately more often), I want to relax at home. 

What does he do at weekends: During the weekends, as well as in Tuesday and Thursday he visits the Jehovah Witness (his religion) meetings. 

Which national/local problem does he find especially important and why: The marginalized and the very difficult socio-economic situation of Roma people in Macedonia. This is due to the fact that one country cannot achieve economic development with the burden of a big problem, such as this one. It would be like a boat sailing fast with the anchor down. 

Which global problem do you find especially important and why?
The pride, greed for riches seen from the aspect of satisfying personal/national interests and goals. I think this is generally well-known fact which can be perceived and observed very easily from the current events in the world and there is no need to elaborate it further.

What would you change in Macedonia? What would you change in the world?
Both previous questions, considering their complexity, ask for more time and elaboration. However, I would say the following: Help the other as you want the other to help you. Yes, very often and unfortunately, the love between people, individuals, citizens is a forgotten issue.