In an era where wellness has evolved from trend to necessity, few figures have shaped the dialogue around health and nutrition as profoundly as Prof. Dr. Anila Kalleshi. A pioneer in clinical dietetics and lifestyle medicine, Prof. Kalleshi stands as one of Southeastern Europe’s foremost authorities on wellness, with a legacy that bridges academia, entrepreneurship, and humanitarian leadership.
A Distinguished Academic and Professional Journey
Born in Shkodër, Albania, on July 11, 1972, Prof. Dr. Kalleshi’s journey reflects an unwavering dedication to knowledge, science, and service. Her academic path began with a degree in Finance from the University of Tirana (1994), followed by studies in Physiotherapy at Zemun, Belgrade (1997). Yet, it was her growing fascination with human health and nutrition that led her to pursue a lifelong vocation in clinical dietetics.
She earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Clinical Dietetics from Unicusano University of Rome, and further strengthened her expertise with a Master’s in Nutrition and Dietetics from Stonebridge University, London, as well as a Master’s in Weight Loss Control and Management in the United States.
Her pursuit of excellence took her across continents — completing the “Lifestyle Medicine: Tools for Promoting Healthy Change” program at Harvard Medical School, and later, a Master’s in Aesthetic Medicine at Tor Vergata University of Rome (2016). In 2018, she was conferred the title Doctor of Public Health by the Academy of Universal Global Peace, followed by an Honorary Professorship from the Academic Union of Oxford (2019).
Today, Prof. Kalleshi is a member of multiple global associations — including the Italian Association of Clinical Dietetics (ADI) and the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics — reflecting her deep engagement in advancing international standards of health science.
Anila Kalleshi’s Center (AKC): Pioneering Wellness Since 1998
In January 1998, Prof. Kalleshi founded Anila Kalleshi’s Center (AKC) — Albania’s first specialized institution dedicated to clinical dietetics and weight management. What began as a personal mission to promote healthier living soon evolved into an internationally recognized brand.
Over 26 years, AKC has transformed thousands of lives through evidence-based nutrition programs and metabolic health innovation. Its reputation has been cemented by numerous global honors, including:
🏆 World Quality Commitment – Gold Trophy, Paris (2009)
💎 International Quality Summit – Diamond Trophy, New York (2010)
👑 Quality Crown Award – Platinum, London (2010)
Each award reinforces a legacy built not on marketing, but on results — or as Prof. Kalleshi often says, “The best marketing is the success of our clients.”
Leadership in Lifestyle Medicine: Founding ALMA
As the Founder and President of the Albanian Lifestyle Medicine Association (ALMA), established in 2017, Prof. Kalleshi has reshaped Albania’s healthcare landscape by integrating lifestyle medicine into medical practice.
Under her leadership, ALMA became a member of the Lifestyle Medicine Global Alliance (LMGA) in 2018, connecting Albania to a worldwide movement advocating health through preventive, evidence-based interventions.
Her influence extends regionally — having been appointed President of ALMA for the Balkan region during a 2017 conference at the University of Bari, and internationally, through collaborations with ELMO, ASLM, and ILMA.
Through national conferences and awareness campaigns, including the First National Lifestyle Medicine Conference in Tirana (2019), Prof. Kalleshi continues to advance a culture of prevention, education, and wellbeing.
Clinical Excellence and Public Health Advocacy
With more than 25 years of professional experience, Prof. Kalleshi has redefined clinical nutrition in Albania. Her pioneering work began when clinical dietetics was virtually unknown in the country — and today, she remains at the forefront of treating obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.
Her medical collaborations include leading institutions such as:
San Antonio Italian Clinic, Tirana (2011–2019)
Fertility Clinic (2019–2020)
MedStar Diagnostic Clinic (2020–present)
Beyond her clinical practice, she has launched nationwide initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, organizing educational campaigns in schools, universities, and public spaces such as Tirana’s Artificial Lake.
As a lecturer in international programs, including collaborations with Harvard Medical School, she continues to mentor a new generation of professionals in the science of preventive medicine.
Author, Educator, and Media Personality
A prolific communicator, Prof. Kalleshi has authored over ten acclaimed books, including “How to Lose Weight” (2011), “Diet?! Not Only” (2014), “Smoothie Cure” (2017), and “Lifestyle Medicine – The Science of Effective Change” (2018), co-authored with Dr. Luigi Maselli. Her upcoming 13th book, slated for release in 2024, explores nutrition’s role in managing autoimmune diseases.
Her written influence extends to over 19,800 published articles in leading publications such as Psikologjia, Madame Mapo, Elegance, VIP, Anabel, and Panorama, solidifying her reputation as one of Albania’s most prolific voices in health journalism.
On television, Prof. Kalleshi’s impact is equally remarkable — with more than 5,000 media appearances, including 1,700+ episodes on Top Channel, as well as frequent features on TV Klan, RTSH, and other major outlets.
Her digital reach mirrors her offline influence: with over 600,000 followers on Facebook and 530,000 on Instagram, she ranks among the most-followed health experts in Southeastern Europe.
Philanthropy, Recognition, and Global Influence
Prof. Kalleshi’s influence extends beyond science and into humanitarian work. In 2019, she was honored with the Golden Medal of Honor by the Diplomatic Mission Peace and Prosperity for her contributions to health education, peace advocacy, and community development.
She has also served as a jury member for the Stevie Awards (New York, 2008–2022), recognizing global excellence in business innovation and women’s leadership — a role that aligns with her advocacy for empowering women in science and entrepreneurship.
A Legacy of Vision and Purpose
Prof. Dr. Anila Kalleshi’s life’s work represents a rare blend of science, leadership, and compassion. From transforming Albania’s nutritional landscape to placing lifestyle medicine on the global stage, her influence transcends borders and disciplines.
Her guiding philosophy remains steadfast:
“To build a healthier society by empowering people through knowledge, balance, and lifestyle change.”
Today, Prof. Kalleshi stands as a beacon of integrity and innovation — a true ambassador of health and hope, and a testament to how passion, when fused with purpose, can reshape lives and societies alike.
