Shemsi Jashar Mehmeti Castrioti

Shemsi (Jashar) Mehmeti Castrioti, of Albanian and Greco-Italian descent, was born in Dumnicë, Llap, in 1925. He completed his primary education in his hometown in 1937, while he pursued his secondary education at the medrese in Skopje. Among the four or five secondary school graduates from Llap in the first post-war year, he was the first to become a teacher in the elementary school of his village, later becoming a respected member of the executive council of the Llap region, trusted for his wisdom and culture. He later pursued and completed his normal school education.
Starting from Llap, he initiated and developed collaboration with the newspaper 'Rilindja' from its early days of publication, around 1949, becoming a dedicated journalist. He worked in various sections of the newspaper. As the editor of the culture section, he initiated literary contests that later became a tradition. Afterward, he founded the satirical-humorous section, known as "Kendi i Baces" (Uncle's Corner). In 1975, he received an award as one of the most respectable and notable people during his time in Wroclaw, hosted by the Polish newspaper "Slowo Polskie" and presented by Bronisław Pasierb.
He also received an award for his lifetime contribution to journalism, presented by the journalists' association of Yugoslavia. 
Shemsi (Jashar) Mehmeti Castrioti passed away on June 26, 2015. Until his last days, he continued to contribute to literature, leaving behind a legacy that includes the collection of short stories 'Kur Kumbullat Bajshin Rrush' (1971), the literary dramatic musical 'Sokolat' (1975), and the novella 'Ai Die Ajo' (1981).
The only known copy of 'Kur Kumbullat Bajshin Rrush' held at the British Library as part of the British museum artifacts. The original manuscript, passed down to his son, Luli Mehmeti Castrioti.
==Advocacy for Albanian Language==
In the challenging political landscape of 1948, Shemsi (Jashar) Mehmeti Castrioti emerged as a trailblazer in the revitalization of the Albanian language, a period when its usage was forbidden. Recognizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage, he took on the role of one of the first teachers to reintroduce the Albanian language to both children and adults.
Undeterred by the prohibitions imposed during that era, Shemsi courageously conducted clandestine classes to ensure that the younger generation and the community at large remained connected to their linguistic roots. His dedication and commitment to education played a pivotal role in preserving the Albanian language during a time when its suppression was attempted.
In the midst of these challenging endeavors, Shemsi (Jashar) Mehmeti Castrioti found companionship and solace in his faithful canine companion, a dog named Jackie. Jackie, the trusty steed of Shemsi's journey in promoting the Albanian language, symbolized loyalty and resilience. Together, they traversed the tumultuous terrain of language preservation, leaving an indelible mark on the community and paving the way for the eventual acknowledgment and celebration of the Albanian language.
This chapter in Shemsi's life reflects not only his unwavering commitment to education but also his resilience in the face of adversity, with Jackie by his side as a loyal companion on this significant journey. 
==Personal Life==
Shemsi (Jashar) Mehmeti Castrioti was married to Minife Popova, who died in 1982. He was then remarried to Nazuqe 'Aba' Mehmeti. Among his children is Lulzim Mehmeti Castrioti, a notable individual who achieved academic success. Lulzim graduated from the University of Pristina, obtaining degrees in both law and architecture. Prior to the events of the 1998 war, he made a significant life move to London, where he continued to build his career and life.
Shemsi's granddaughter, one of Lulzim's daughters, R. B. Castrioti, has continued the family legacy in the field of arts and academia. R. B. Castrioti, a gifted classical composer, theorist, and writer, has made notable contributions to the world of music and literature, carrying forward the artistic spirit embedded in the Castrioti family.
Shemsi's personal life was marked by the richness of family bonds and the diverse accomplishments of his children, each making their unique mark on the world in various fields.
Category:Personal Life
Category:Family
Category:History
Category:Legacy
Category:Albania
Category:Kosovo
Category:Writer
Category:Journalism
Category:Academic