By: Ermira Babamusta, Ph.D., New York/

Mayor Michael Bloomberg has taken the leadership through innovative initiatives like the “Global Connective Media”, “NYC Life” and the creation of “The Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting” to revitalize New York’s economy. The mayor’s vision for arts and the showbiz sector play an integral part in creating funding for the arts community, opening new jobs for the private and public sectors and increasing business activity. The Mayor’s Five Borough Economic Opportunity Plan has been detrimental in bringing NY out of recession. His new cultural and arts programs have proven successful in encouraging entrepreneurship and self-esteem in the next generation leaders.

Mayor Bloomberg has pledged to work more for the City’s cultural community, expanding support for artists and arts organizations. A perfect example that showcases how the cultural lifestyle is thriving thanks to mayor’s office is “NYC Life”.  This program explores arts, culture and entertainment through history and education in New York. It is linked to the economic success of the city of New York.

“Mayor Bloomberg has embraced the arts community and understands the role arts, culture and creativity play in the city’s economy. I am very appreciative of wonderful programs launched by the Mayor’s office like NYC Life that provide amazing opportunities for young ambitious filmmakers like myself. It was an honor to meet with Mayor Bloomberg and see him deliver on his promises,” stated screenwriter and director Orges Bakalli.

Director Bakalli met with Mayor Michael Bloomberg in a 2011 NYC Life official meeting with other talented artists and key figures from the arts and political community. Orges Bakalli is best known for producing the critically acclaimed documentary “American Drop Out”, collaboration with award-winning producers of Reel Works Teen Filmmaking. American Drop Out documentary raises awareness about the drop out crisis in New York City schools and the challenges at-risk students face. The documentary aired on PBS, WNET Thirteen’s American Graduate Day broadcast on September 2012.

“It is a blessing to be part of the mentoring model at Reel Works. Through this great non-profit filmmaking program I have been able to build on my leadership skills and enhanced my self-confidence. Reel Works and NYC Life have given me the opportunity to take on projects that have proven to be successful and influential in advocating for education, history, culture and other important issues,” added director Orges Bakalli.

Orges Bakalli is an extraordinary young talent that is contributing to the arts community in New York. He is one of the youngest directors to have made a name for himself thanks to his dedication, original films and passion. His upcoming short film “Made in Amerika” which he wrote and directs, explores immigration experiences of European communities in United States, focusing on contextual factors such as family, integration and culture.