Rafaela Rica

President, Albania - India Business Council

Rafaela Rica, an accomplished entrepreneur from Albania, founded one of the largest and most innovative advertising and communications agencies in the country at the young age of 23. She graduated from the University of Tirana with a Bachelor's in English and later earned an MBA from the University Institute Kurt Bösch in Switzerland. Currently, she is a PhD candidate researching the factors affecting female entrepreneurship in Albania at the Consortium of the International Joint Cross-Border PhD Programme in Austria.

Her success is attributed to her team of 22 motivated young professionals who have been with her since the beginning, working toward a common vision. As one of the few women entrepreneurs in Albania in 1999, Rafaela became a role model and motivational speaker, sharing her story and overcoming challenges, particularly around mentality and lack of support. She mentors young women entrepreneurs in Albania and the Balkans, advocating for gender equality and empowering women in emerging economies.

Among her pioneering projects, Rafaela is most noted for the Sea Summit, an event aimed at bringing together European and global venture capitalists and entrepreneurs. She has also worked on high-profile initiatives like the FIIAPP Cooperation Spain project, which focused on data protection in Albania, as well as various campaigns for companies such as Bechtel Corporation and Statkraft Norway.

Rafaela’s leadership is marked by her dynamic energy, ability to inspire teams, and commitment to creating impactful projects that foster growth, awareness, and development.