Fifth experience exchange tour “Discovering the potential of social enterprises in Latvia and Lithuania” to Rokiškis

 

Date: 21.05.2025.

Time: 10.00 am – 16.00 pm

Location: Ķekava County, Latvia

Agenda: https://ej.uz/ck2h

Link for applying: https://ej.uz/moi6

Description:

To promote the development of social entrepreneurship and foster cooperation between Latvia and Lithuania in this field, the Zemgale Planning Region, together with its partners, is organizing the fifth and final experience exchange trip, which will take place on May 21st in Latvia. Social entrepreneurs, social science educators, municipality specialists, and other interested parties from both countries – primarily from the Zemgale region and Northern Lithuania (Rokiškis, Biržai, Pasvalys, Kupiškis, and Panevėžys municipalities) – are invited to participate.

The event will take place outdoors at the social enterprise “Dabas Zirgi” in Ķekava municipality, which is the first social enterprise in Latvia dedicated to animal protection and addressing horse welfare issues. This farm offers training on the mental and physical well-being of horses, excursions, horseback riding, various masterclasses, and relaxation surrounded by the forest. We will not only learn about the company’s development but also explore the territory and meet its main inhabitants – the horses.

During the event, we will hear a review of the previous four trips and the experiences gained, shared by Sandra Grigorjeva, a specialist from the Zemgale Planning Region’s project “Re:Impact.” We will also get acquainted with diverse social enterprises operating in the fields of environmental and animal protection and promoting sustainability.

The zero-waste store, social enterprise “IEBER.LV,” will share its story and recommendations for a more sustainable lifestyle and a greener daily routine. In an era where more and more people are looking for ways to reduce waste and use environmentally friendly products, “IEBER.LV” provides such a solution.

There will also be an opportunity to learn about the activities of the social enterprise “BeATUS,” which conducts sessions for children and youth using warm grain therapy. This therapy helps to alleviate stress and improves both physical and psycho-emotional well-being. The company not only offers to learn this therapy method but also to purchase and rent warm grain boxes.

In the afternoon, an inspiring meeting is planned with the social enterprise “Stikla Māja”, which will share its experience in secondary glass recycling. Through its creative activities, the company makes glass art accessible to a wider public, and the studio is open to aspiring glass artists who have the opportunity to work freely with glass technology equipment. At the end of the visit, participants will take part in a practical glass art masterclass.

Participation in the trip is free of charge, and the working language is English.