Jehona Gjurgjeala

The founder of TOKA, engaged as Executive Director for 10 years. As of January 2025, she continues her journey within the organization as a Board member, passing on the leadership to her colleague Hatixhe Zeka.

After nearly 15 years of study and work in England and Denmark, she returned to her homeland to start TOKA, an organization aimed at improving Kosovar society by investing in youth education.
She completed her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the London School of Economics and Political Science, the latter as a recipient of the prestigious British Council Chevening Scholarship.

Her last employment before returning to Kosovo was as Director of Product Management at Egencia (a company of Expedia), where she led many large projects with a significant impact on global business. As Executive Director of the Oxford Leadership Academy (OLA), she was responsible for growing consultancy and collaborations, including opening the Oxford office. She also has extensive experience in the non-profit sector, in basic projects and research, including collaboration with the Girl Scouts USA in developing a youth leadership program.

She grew up during a difficult time in Kosovo, during the 1990s, yet had the opportunity to develop and become successful thanks to the support of many people who helped her along the way. Now, she wants to pass on that support to future generations so that they can accelerate Kosovo’s development with their contributions when they grow up.

Her favorite quote: “Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without the strategy.” – Norman Schwarzkopf, Jr.