A woman has chosen to reside in the breathtaking Albanian wilderness, driven by a lifelong pledge to remain a virgin.
This extraordinary decision has shaped the course of her life, leading her to a secluded existence removed from societal expectations and norms, never wavering from her commitment.
Around 35 years ago, Duni made a profound and life-altering decision to take a vow of celibacy, forever renouncing the idea of engaging in sexual relationships.
In embracing this commitment, she also adopted the unique lifestyle of a "Burrnesha," a term used to describe women in Albania who choose to live as men.
For Duni, this choice meant more than just abstaining from sexual intimacy. It entailed adopting a masculine identity and embracing the societal roles traditionally associated with men.
In an interview with the Express, Duni expressed her dedication to living as a man, breaking away from the gender expectations imposed by her culture
Although she does not identify as transgender, she has made a lifelong commitment to celibacy, resulting in a transformation of her appearance and lifestyle.
Duni wears masculine attire, has cut her hair, and abstains from engaging in sexual relationships.
"I had a lot of options," Duni said. "But I wanted to be free and feel different.
"I had the opportunity because my father was very educated and open-minded [so I was able to remain unmarried]. I've said to all my brothers and sisters ‘don't get married too quickly. Enjoy your life.'"
After her father passed and she had younger siblings to take care of, Duni became a Burrnesha.
She claimed that losing her father would force her to commit to the pledge, get married, or serve her own family instead of someone else's. It also meant she could start earning money for her family and become the household.
Her pet Alsatian is her only companion now that she has moved into a secluded chalet in the isolated northern Albanian hamlet of Lëpushë.
She also has a strong passion for the Italian national football team; in fact, she once locked her nephew out of the house for two hours after they got into a fight over his admiration for England's Three Lions.
Duni noted that although her way of life might not be to everyone's taste, she had never been interested in getting married.
She added that when she was a little girl growing up in Albania, pursuers would not approach her directly; instead, their families would bring up the subject of marriage to her father.
"I just said, 'No, no, no I don't care who the guy is.' Different families came into our family house to convince me of their boys. I always said no, even during the good times of Albania after democracy, so I was always against that."
"I was very strong so most of the guys were scared for me, even today, they are scared of me," she added.
