Ms Brisilda Taco, the nominee of the joint European Union/Council of Europe ROMACTED Programme was awarded with the second prize for the EU Award “Unknown Heroes” for Roma Integration in the Western Balkan and Turkey 2019.

Building upon her extensive experience as a Roma professional on human rights, Ms Taco has contributed to a number of important results in her role as a ROMACTED Programme facilitator in the Albanian municipalities of Vlora and Elbasan. Relying on her good attitude and balanced approach, she works closely with representatives of local authorities through referring issues of concern for Roma communities during the institutional working groups (IWGs) and multi task force meetings (MTFs) in both municipalities.

During last year, Ms Taco actively facilitated information sessions on housing programmes, economic aid requirements and attendance of vocational education courses for 30 families while she is currently helping 50 Roma community members in the municipality of Vlora to find a solution for their main problem of lack of electrical energy due to inherited debt. Through her dedication, energy and responsibility, Ms Taco is a positive model for Roma women.