Meet Leonita Memeti
Meet Leonita Memeti, a Junior majoring in Global Studies and Criminal Justice with a minor in Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs (HRHA). Her personal background, academic experiences, and advocacy work have shaped her long-term goal of founding an NGO dedicated to addressing gender-based violence.
“As a refugee from Kosovo and a first-generation college student, my background has profoundly influenced not only my educational journey but also my dedication to these fields. Growing up with an awareness of conflict and displacement fuels my commitment to justice and human rights, especially for marginalized communities and survivors whose voices deserve to be heard.”
Her commitment extends beyond the classroom into campus and community engagement. She completed an internship with Assist Kosovo in Prishtina, where she contributed to broader advocacy efforts and community-focused initiatives. Her academic research complements her advocacy work by focusing on wartime sexual violence in Kosovo.
“Overall, I feel a strong commitment to preventing gender-based violence and promoting awareness, accountability, and justice.”
Thanks to the HRHA program, Leonita has gained a deeper understanding of how academic research can create a meaningful impact beyond the classroom. Her participation in the Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experience (UCARE) program further strengthened this perspective.
In advising students interested in human rights advocacy, Leonita shares, “Just go for it and don’t be afraid to pursue topics that feel challenging or complex! Find mentors, ask plenty of questions, and make the most of opportunities like research programs, internships, or conferences. Above all, approach this work with humility and truly listen to the communities you’re studying or advocating for; their perspectives should always take precedence.”
Reflecting on her time at UNL, Leonita shared:
“My time at UNL has taught me that everyone’s journey looks different. I may have started later than others, but I’ve come to understand that growth isn’t linear, and that doesn’t make it any less meaningful.
A piece of advice I would give: Don’t rush your time here, be present, lean on professors and faculty because they truly do care about you and your growth, and never compare your path to anyone else’s. Your story is powerful precisely because it is your own.”
