- Published: 03.04.2025.
The third international culinary competition, CUPI'S SPOON 2025, was held in Tirana
A remarkable event took place on April 3, 2025, in Tirana - the third international culinary competition, CUPI'S SPOON 2025, dedicated to people with disabilities. This commendable event was organized by Caritas Albania, the Association for the Most Vulnerable in Education from Zagreb, and the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Tirana.
The winner of the competition, Valeriol Balliu, earned the right to participate in the European culinary competition in Zagreb. The second place was awarded to Aferdita Lumci and Linda Gjini.
The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, Albanian institutions, and organizations dedicated to promoting the rights of people with disabilities.
Opening speeches were delivered by Msgr. Arjan Dodaj, Archbishop of Tirana and Durrës and President of Caritas Albania, Zlatko Kramarić, Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to Albania, and Ms. Migena Spaho from the Municipality of Tirana.
In his address, Ambassador Kramarić emphasized the significance of this competition: "CUPI'S SPOON is more than just a culinary competition - it is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the extraordinary talents of people with disabilities. Through this event, we are not only showcasing exceptional chefs but also highlighting the importance of accessibility and the opportunity to pursue one's potential. Let us continue to support and empower each other to build a world where opportunities are available to everyone and where each individual's unique abilities are recognized and valued."
This international competition represents an important step in raising awareness of inclusion and ensuring equal opportunities for all. The organizers emphasize their commitment to strengthening similar initiatives in the future.
News
The winner of the competition, Valeriol Balliu, earned the right to participate in the European culinary competition in Zagreb. The second place was awarded to Aferdita Lumci and Linda Gjini.
The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps, Albanian institutions, and organizations dedicated to promoting the rights of people with disabilities.
Opening speeches were delivered by Msgr. Arjan Dodaj, Archbishop of Tirana and Durrës and President of Caritas Albania, Zlatko Kramarić, Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to Albania, and Ms. Migena Spaho from the Municipality of Tirana.
In his address, Ambassador Kramarić emphasized the significance of this competition: "CUPI'S SPOON is more than just a culinary competition - it is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the extraordinary talents of people with disabilities. Through this event, we are not only showcasing exceptional chefs but also highlighting the importance of accessibility and the opportunity to pursue one's potential. Let us continue to support and empower each other to build a world where opportunities are available to everyone and where each individual's unique abilities are recognized and valued."
This international competition represents an important step in raising awareness of inclusion and ensuring equal opportunities for all. The organizers emphasize their commitment to strengthening similar initiatives in the future.