Afer*Nova was founded by Detina Zalli, a visionary scientist who transformed extraordinary challenges into a mission of hope and empowerment. As a young teen escaping war-torn Albania, Detina was deeply inspired by her mother, Aferdita, whose name means “near the light” or “near the day” in Albanian. Her mother’s strength, resilience, and unwavering optimism became the foundation of Detina’s journey and the heart of Afer*Nova’s mission.

The name “Afer” reflects this journey toward light and hope, inspired by the Albanian word for “near.” It embodies the values of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of a brighter future. Paired with “Nova,” meaning “stars,” the name takes on an even deeper significance. In astronomy, a nova is a star that dramatically increases in brightness, symbolising renewal, transformation, and reaching new heights. Derived from Latin, “nova” also means “new,” representing fresh beginnings and endless possibilities.