
A painful piece of news has touched the Albanian art world. The young artist from Kosovo, Rinesa Qeriqi, known by the stage name Rinesance, has passed away at the age of 25, after a long battle with a serious illness.
For many Albanians, her face had become familiar through the video clip of Alban Skënderaj's famous song "Lea", released in 2018. With her interpretation and naturalness, Rinesa gave life to the character that remained in the public's memory.
But behind her artistic dreams, the young woman was facing a difficult health battle.
In May 2025, she publicly announced that she had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and had undergone two surgeries. Despite the difficulties, Rinesa expressed her desire to return to music.
The news of her passing was made public on October 23 by her family, through a touching message.
"This morning came to us without you, our Rina," the family writes, expressing their sorrow for her loss.
Rinesa had built an artistic career that included music, modeling, and participation in music videos. She had also collaborated with rapper Buta.
At an age when her career still had much to offer, the artist's life was tragically cut short.
Rinesa Qeriqi leaves this world, but for the Albanian public she will remain the girl who gave face to "Lea", one of the most popular characters in Alban Skënderaj's music videos.