Welcoming Ana Golja and Marki Shkreli

NEW YORK — The Albanian Institute is delighted to announce and welcome our newest advisory board members: Ana Golja, actress and singer, and Marki Shkreli, hairdresser and celebrity hair stylist.

Born in Toronto to Albanian immigrant parents, Ana Golja began dancing at the young age of five and acting at the age of nine. She received critical acclaim for her performances in films such as “Full Out”, that earned her a Canadian Screen Award nomination, and for her role as Zoë Rivas in the Emmy-nominated drama “Degrassi”.  Ana’s most recent film appearances include the lead actress role in “The Cuban”, in which she co-starred with Oscar winner Lou Gossett Jr., and her latest role in the thriller “The Fanatic”, alongside John Travolta.

Marki Shkreli was born into a family of hairdressers, and grew up in Michigan where he was mentored under centenarian legendary hairdresser David Presley. His mother born in Tuzi, Montenegro, and his father born in Velipojë, Albania and raised in Ulqin — the center of Albanian community in Montenegro — both immigrated to the United States in pursuit of a better education and opportunities for their children.

Continuing with his family heritage, Marki has created some of the most admired hairstyles, including those worn by Emma Watson, Drew Barrymore, Naomi Watts, and Sienna Miller, his work has been showcased on covers and major features for the top-tier magazines across the globe, including Vogue Italia, i-D, Pop, Purple, AnOther Magazine to name a few, and his talent has been enlisted by some of the most iconic fashion houses, including Chanel, Zara, Amiri, Loewe & Tiffany’s.

We are so honored and fortunate to have their voices to inspire the next generation and empower our community by their example, dedication, passions and talents, advancing the institute’s mission and shaping our future.

Please join us in giving both Ana and Marki a warm welcome!