Mia Islami was born in Skopje, in the neighborhood of Serova, and is the only daughter in her family. She began her sport activities in elementary school, encouraged by her gym teacher who included her in school athletics competitions. These were her early beginnings, but the main driving force for her to continue further in sports was her brother, Ekrem Islami, who had been a wrestler but was forced to retire due to an injury.
At that time, it was difficult for an Albanian woman to engage in sports, but she had her family’s support. She continued high school for physical education in a Macedonian-speaking school, since at that time there were no opportunities in Albanian. Simultaneously, her brother enrolled her in the athletics club “Vardar,” where her first coach was Buçkov. She stayed there only a year and a half, not due to lack of success, but because of the prejudices of the community where she lived. The harsh judgment from the community did not allow her to continue, because in their eyes, an Albanian girl could not do athletics and train after 17:00, the only time she was able to, since the rest of her day was spent in school.
However, she did not give up. In 1979/80 she enrolled in the Faculty of Physical Education in Skopje, where in her generation only she and Nixhar Nagavci were Albanian. After finishing her studies, she began working as a physical education teacher and later decided to focus on engaging young Albanian girls in sports, to break the barriers she herself had faced. Her goal was for the mentality of the community she lived in to change, and for women not to be judged for their sports activities, but supported in their dreams.
She continued with another sport, becoming a handball coach for girls, because athletics is an individual sport, while handball offers the chance to feel team cooperation and the importance of support. To open the first handball school, she had the help of Muhamed Ismaili and Ajdin Ramadani. After several years, in 1996/97, the school was transformed into the club “Rinia,” where boys also took part alongside the girls.
In 1998, she participated for the first time with the girls in school competitions at the state level. In a competition between 12 schools, they ranked fifth, a major success considering it was the first time girls from Skopje competed in handball. After some time, due to some conditions, she paused her activity in the club, but this did not last long. In 2008, she opened the first Albanian handball club exclusively for girls in Macedonia, the “Çair” Club. Interest at the beginning was so high that around 100 girls registered in the pioneer, cadet, and junior categories. The club participated in competitions and joined the First League, and is now part of the Superleague.
She believes that the mentality has changed and that now it is normal for girls to engage in sports. Many young girls will not face the prejudices and challenges she experienced, even though part of society still have doubts and reservations. She emphasizes that more work is still needed for the advancement of young women and men, and she is proud of the sacrifices she has made. Although the years pass and she cannot always remain at the head of the club to which she brought into existence and kept alive, she has one wish and legacy: to ensure that the “Çair” Club lives as long as life exists and as long as there are Albanian girls in Skopje.
Why did you choose handball as a sport?
Handball is one of the most advanced and well-organized sports in Macedonia. When I was younger, I was drawn to its dynamic nature, the teamwork, and the opportunity to show our strength and strategy. My love for this sport came naturally, and later it also became a personal mission: to involve Albanian girls in this arena, motivate them to develop their talent, and be part of the sports community.
What does the club you founded mean to you?
Founding the club is an achievement that goes beyond personal pride. The “Çair” Club is the pride of Çair, an important step for both our sport and our community. As its founder, I feel privileged to create an environment where Albanian girls have the opportunity to grow and feel represented in sports. This club is not just for me but for everyone who believes in sports and in the abilities of Albanian girls.
What has been the most special moment for you so far?
The most special moment was the day I founded the club. It was an unforgettable experience, because I felt I was leaving a lasting mark in the sports history of our country. This moment gave me even more motivation to work tirelessly and to support the girls who follow their passion for sports.
What are some of the challenges you see in the development of sports for Albanian girls?
There is still much to improve. There is not enough sports culture for girls, and institutional support is often lacking. Albanian girls frequently face difficulties in accessing equal opportunities compared to boys, and this is a challenge we face every day. But with enough willpower, dedication, and hard work, we can change this reality and create an environment where girls’ sports develop adequately and with its due respect.
What motivates you most toward success?
My motivation comes from the desire to see the results of our work and from the passion I have for this sport. When I see the girls training with dedication, progressing, and managing to represent our community, it gives me energy and strength to continue. The drive for success is what fills our days with energy and commitment.
How important is continuous work to achieve results?
Nothing can replace work and discipline. When there is dedication and willingness to work, every goal is attainable, even when it seems impossible. Success does not come from talent alone, but from patience, hard work, and consistency.
Are there athletes who can serve as role models for youth?
Yes, there are plenty of athletes who can serve as role models for young people, not only for their achievements but also for their dedication and discipline. But my biggest wish is for Albanians to reach all the highest levels of sport, to compete internationally, and to show that our talent and willpower have no limits.
What’s something we can say about success and dedication?
Work and success are the only things that never go away. Every sincere effort has a result, even if it sometimes comes late. For us, every step forward is a small victory that brings us closer to our greater goal.
Do you have support for your club?
Of course, we support the club, because it is exemplary and our girls can grow their skills there. The moral support is strong; there are always people who motivate us and give us courage. But financial support has been lacking and continues to be lacking, which makes the challenge even greater.
What are your hopes for the future of the club?
Despite the challenges, we continue to hope and work hard. We believe that with time, the financial support the club needs will come, so it can continue educating and developing new athletes. Our vision is clear: to create a strong and sustainable sports community where every Albanian girl feels represented and empowered.
