In one of the most touching and prideful moments for Albanians worldwide, Samantha Shkreli Sarelli, the Albanian-American beauty who holds the title of Miss Globe USA 2025, captured the hearts of millions by singing in Albanian a song dedicated to Skanderbeg, the national hero of Albania. Her heartfelt performance was a tribute not only to her parents but to the entire Albanian diaspora.
With a warm voice and deep emotion, Samantha brought to the stage of global beauty a song that embodies the national pride and historical memory of Albanians — reminding the world that the legacy of Skanderbeg lives on in every Albanian heart.
“I wanted a song with meaning, one that connects me to my roots and my Albanian blood,” Samantha wrote on social media.
“This song is about Skanderbeg, the hero who fought for the Albanian people and is the reason why Albania still exists today.”
Though she had never sung in Albanian or performed a cappella before, Samantha bravely stepped outside her comfort zone. With the guidance of her vocal coach Nika Veseli, she managed to convey what she called “the song of my heart” — a performance that will be remembered as a bridge between heritage and global recognition.
From Miss Connecticut Teen to Miss Globe USA 2025
Born and raised in the United States, Samantha Shkreli Sarelli is an inspiring figure of the new generation of Albanian-Americans who proudly carry their cultural identity wherever they go. In 2020, she earned the title of Miss Connecticut Teen USA, and now, as Miss Globe USA 2025, she continues to rise to new international heights.
In an interview with Albinfo.ch, Samantha explained:
“My title is not just about beauty or modeling. It’s about impact. It’s about having the chance to help others and to be a voice for those who are not heard.”
Beyond the spotlight, Samantha is deeply engaged in raising awareness against human trafficking, a cause she calls “a wound of humanity.” Intelligent, humble, and driven, she blends elegance with purpose, proving that true beauty shines brightest when it serves a greater good.
Proud Roots and a Family of Faith
Samantha’s roots trace back to Fraskanjel (Amulli i Poshtëm – Marrçinajt), in the Ulcinj municipality, a region rich in Albanian culture and tradition. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Nikollë Shkreli, are respected figures in the Albanian community in the U.S., and both are active members and lecturers at the Our Lady of Shkodra Church in New York — a cornerstone of Albanian faith and identity abroad.
She speaks Albanian, understands her heritage deeply, and often says she is “American by birth but Albanian at heart.” Her grandmother and uncle still live in Shkodër, a city she affectionately calls “the root of my soul.”
One of the most symbolic moments highlighting her pride came during a Miss Globe event when a guest jokingly asked for a photo with her, saying he wanted a picture “with an American, to keep it good with Trump.” Samantha laughed and replied:
“I’m American by birth, but Albanian by heart.”
It was a simple sentence — yet it captured everything about her essence.
A Bridge Between Two Worlds
Today, Samantha Shkreli Sarelli represents much more than a beauty queen. She stands as a symbol of connection between two worlds — America, the land of opportunity, and Albania, the land of spirit and soul. With grace, humility, and a clear sense of purpose, she embodies what it means to be an ambassador of Albanian values across borders.
Her journey reminds us that true greatness lies in authenticity — in embracing one’s roots while soaring to new horizons. Through her actions and words, Samantha shows that being Albanian is not just about origin; it’s about heart, pride, and perseverance.
In every step she takes, she honors her ancestors, her culture, and the flag of a small but proud nation. Samantha Shkreli Sarelli proves that beauty has meaning only when it carries a mission — the mission to inspire, uplift, and represent one’s people with dignity.