09:00 - 09:10 AM - Opening Remarks

A brief welcome and introduction by FABER to open the Forum

• Jon Kola, Project Manager - FABER
• Joleza Koka, Executive Director - FABER

09:10 - 09:20 AM - Leadership Addresses – Inclusive Smart Cities

• Mr. Blendi Gonxhja, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports in Albania - MTKS
• Mr. Christian Mettke, Project Director - GIZ

09:20 - 09:35 AM - Keynote Address: Diverse Developments, Shared Futures - Inclusive Smart Cities in Albania

• Mrs. Eridana Çano, General Director of SASPAC

09:35-09:45 AM - Exhibition Opening - (Dis)Connected

Curated by local artist Rubin Kadiu, this exhibition is a collaboration between the London School o f Economics Middle East Centre, Abu Dhabi University, and POLIS University. It features research by Alexandra Gomez, Apostolos Kiriades, and Clemens Munda, with visual work by architecture students in Abu Dhabi under Kiriades' supervision. In Tirana, the exhibition expands with projects from POLIS University students guided by Joleza Koka, reflecting on how territorial reforms and new developments are reshaping the city. Linking global research with local perspectives, the exhibition
highlights how infrastructures and policies can both connect and divide urban environments.

Refreshments served in the foyer with time to connect and visit the expo.

10:15 – 10:30 AM Documentary Screening: Territory and Gender - Who Shapes Albanian Cities?

By Mrs. Jetmira Belegu

10:30 – 11:00 AM Panel Discussion

Gendered urbanism: Rethinking City Spaces through Gender Perspectives in Urban Design

Moderator:

• Dr. Dorina Pojani, Associate Professor - Queensland University
• Jetmira Belegu, Architect, Writer and Filmmaker
• Alia Beyg, CEO - Managing Director - AQUA
• Sonila Abdalli, Co-founding Director - Destil Creative Hub
• Benedetta Mea, Director - Settanta7

This module explores how gender shapes experiences of urban spaces and how city design can become more inclusive by integrating gender-sensitive approaches. It will examine the ways in which urban environments can either perpetuate or challenge gender inequalities through aspects such as mobility, safety, accessibility, and public space usage. By analyzing case studies and best practices in feminist urbanism, the discussion will focus on reimagining cities that cater to diverse needs, ensuring that urban planning processes consider the daily realities of all genders. The module aims to highlight the transformative potential of gender-inclusive design in creating equitable, safe, and vibrant urban environments.

11:00 - 11:15 AM / Presentation 1

Adaptive Ecologies: Architecture for a Changing Society

• Marvin Bratke, Managing Partner - Beta Realities

11:15 - 11:30 AM / Presentation 2

"From Policy to Practice: Rethinking Urban Regeneration in the J14-Rasadnik Quarter"

• Nadica Angova Kolevska, Lecturer at International Balkan University

11:30 - 11:45 AM / Presentation 3

"Modern Construction Engineering, Custom Design Solutions for Complex Projects"

• Besnik Halili, Founder Halili+Partner Ingenieure

11:45 - 12:00 AM / Presentation 4

"Beyond the Skyline: High-Rise Architecture and Urban Identity"

• Thomas Busse, Managing Director - KSP ENGEL International

12:00 - 12:30 PM / Panel Discussion

“The Smart City Paradox: Artificial Intelligence, Equity, and Everyday Urban Life”

Moderator:

• Dr. Gustavo de Siqueira, Associate Professor - GUtech
• Marvin Bratke, Managing Partner - Beta Realities
• Thomas Busse, Managing Director - KSP ENGEL International
• Besnik Halili, Founder Halili+Partner Ingenieure
• Nadica Angova Kolevska, Lecturer - International Balkan University

This module delves into the role of artificial intelligence in shaping smart cities, critically examining how Al-driven urban innovations impact inclusion, equity, and public participation. While Al offers opportunities for efficient urban management, improved mobility, and sustainable solutions, it also raises concerns about algorithmic bias, surveillance, and the marginalization of vulnerable communities. The session will explore how cities can harness Al responsibly to enhance quality of life without reinforcing existing social and spatial inequalities. Through discussions on data ethics, digital governance, and citizen-centered Al applications, the module seeks to unpack the paradox of smart cities-balancing technological advancement with the imperative for inclusive and just urban futures.

Buffet lunch served in the foyer with time to connect.

13:30 - 13:45 PM / Presentation 1

“Creative Reuse of Cities”

• Jiří Richter, Design Director - CHYBIK + KRISTOF

13:45 - 14:00 PM / Presentation 2

"Beyond the Skyline: Tall Buildings and Urban Identity"

• Jürgen Springer, Project Architect - KSP ENGEL International

14:00 - 14:15 PM / Presentation 3

“Wellness by Design: Smart Communities for a Changing World”

• Alia Beyg, CEO - Managing Director - AQUA

14:15 - 14:30 PM / Presentation 4

“Reclaiming Third Spaces: Gender, Agency, and Public Life in Tirana”

• Ashique Mohammad, Founder - The Third Space
• Elizabeth Schenker, Researcher, Land Tenure and Human Rights

Most Sustainable Government Initiative

Celebrating policies or programs that prioritize inclusivity and sustainability.

Emerging Architectural Studios Highlighting young studios with a focus on community engagement and sustainable design.

Most Sustainable Built

Project Honoring exemplary architectural projects that set new benchmarks in environmental responsibility.