Iden Petraj is a Cycling Advisor at the Municipality of Tirana (MoT), Albania and serves as the city’s Bike Mayor, officially recognized by the international organization BYCS. She holds an MBA and a BA in Psychology, but has been a cycling activist advocating for safer and more accessible cycling for over a decade. Iden actively participates in mobility conferences and similar events, where she presents and contributes to local publications. She keeps cycling promotion in the spotlight by regularly appearing in both local and international media, in print and on screen. During her daily work at the MoT, Iden collaborates with municipal leaders to bridge a strong connection between the institution and the cycling community in Tirana. Her continuous efforts have resulted in expanded cycling infrastructure, improved road safety, and the integration of cycling into broader mobility policies. Iden is also a strong advocate for cycling education and inclusion. She was part of the working group that developed the Bicycle School, a free public program that has taught thousands—especially children—how to cycle safely. She also leads cycling lessons for women and young girls, addressing cultural and practical barriers to access. Her work has contributed to a cultural shift in Tirana, where 12% of residents—especially city workers—now use bicycles in their daily commutes.
Iden Petraj
