Dua Lipa, born in London in 1995 to Albanian parents who fled the Bosnian and Kosovan War, was deeply influenced by her family’s resilience and heritage. Her Bosnian mother and Kosovan father, whose father was a historian who stood firm against Serbian occupation, instilled a strong sense of identity in her. Although born in London, Dua’s family moved to Kosovo when she was 11, where she connected with her father’s roots. However, by 14, she was drawn back to London to pursue her dream of becoming an international music sensation.
At 14, Dua convinced her parents to let her study in London, masking her true intention: to break into the music world. She enrolled in the Sylvia Young Theatre School, created demo tapes, and shared them on platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud. Despite living with family friends and gaining independence, she remained focused on her goal, eventually catching the attention of a manager who helped guide her into the music industry.
Dua’s love for music was clear from a young age, performing for friends and family and quickly advancing in her singing lessons. Her exposure to Kosovo’s hip-hop scene fueled her desire to see global artists perform there. Once successful, Dua gave back by launching the Sunny Hill Festival in Kosovo, bringing major international acts to her home country.
As she built her career, Dua reflected on her family’s journey—her parents’ determination and hard work to rebuild their lives in London after the war. She also grew to appreciate her Albanian name, which once made her wish for a more common one, and began to embrace its meaning: “love.” While navigating her career and feeling the pressure of her parents’ lasting relationship, she learned the importance of focusing on herself before pursuing a serious partnership.
Today, Dua Lipa is a global pop icon, breaking records and winning multiple Grammy Awards. Recently, she gained Albanian citizenship, and despite her remarkable success, she remains grounded and appreciative of her roots. From a 14-year-old chasing her dreams across borders, Dua’s journey is a testament to her talent and the enduring strength of her family.
