Kleist Rexhepaj, 34, wakes up every morning with a sense of purpose—something he once thought was out of reach. With hearing and speech impairments due to a childhood fever, Kleist spent years navigating a world that often ignored him. But today, he is a proud employee at Yura Company. Thanks to the National Agency for Employment and Skills, supported by an EU-funded project implemented by UNDP—EU4Labour Market Inclusion (EU4LMI)- his life prospects have now changed. 

Kleist faced many challenges as a child. Growing up in Mallakastër, he encountered communication hurdles that made education and employment difficult. Yet, despite this, he completed secondary education in a school specialized for people with disabilities and even trained in shoemaking. But finding stable work remained a struggle—his only experience was sporadic work in a local shoemaking shop.

“For years, I felt stuck,” Kleist shared through his mother, who translates his sign language. “I wanted to work, to be independent, but no one would give me a chance.”

Everything changed when Kleist registered on the e-Albania portal, declaring his disability. This simple act connected him with the local office of the National Agency for Employment and Skills in Mallakastër.

Recognizing that opportunities in Mallakastër were limited, they collaborated with their Fier office, expanding Kleist’s prospects. “We assessed his skills and identified his needs—transportation, a workplace companion, and training, using work analysis, a tool introduced by Public Employment Services of Sweden that partners with UNDP in EU4LMI project ” explained a Suela, from Fier Regional NAES.

After a thorough evaluation, Fier Regional NAES referred him to Yura Company, which had previously expressed willingness in hiring people with disabilities—particularly those with hearing and speech impairments. The role required sharp vision for color distinction and the ability to stand for long periods—skills Kleist possessed. Communication barriers? Not an issue.

Yura Company didn’t just hire Kleist—they ensured his success. They provided:

• Daily transportation from Mallakastër to Fier
• A workplace companion (a relative who also worked there) to assist with communication
• On-the-job training to help him adapt
• A supportive environment where he felt valued

“Kleist is an excellent worker,” said a Yura Company manager. “We believe in giving everyone a fair chance. His disability doesn’t define his ability to contribute.”

For Kleist, this job is more than a paycheck—it’s dignity, independence, and belonging.

“Before, I depended on my family. Now, I earn my own money. I have colleagues who treat me with respect,” he expressed with pride.

His success also sends a powerful message to other employers: inclusion isn’t just charity—it’s good business.
"Kleist's story demonstrates how supported support and inclusive employment practices can dismantle barriers and create opportunities for those society often leaves behind"- says Randi Davis, UNDP Resident Representative. 

The Bigger Picture: Albania’s Push for Inclusive Employment

Kleist’s story aligns with broader efforts in Albania to integrate people with disabilities into the workforce. Projects like the EU for Labour Market Inclusion (EU4LMI)—implemented by UNDP, the Swedish Public Employment Services (PES), and Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF)—are creating pathways for marginalized groups.