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Description
This initiative aims to build international cooperation with Norwegian organizations sharing similar goals, particularly in cultural education and improving the quality of life for children and youth. The Latvian association "Vītolēni" focuses on organizing camps—music, art, sports, integration, and adventure—that highlight Gaujiena’s cultural and natural environment. To ensure sustainable collaboration, face-to-face meetings with Norwegian partners will foster partnerships, develop shared goals, and exchange ideas, ultimately forming a network of camps.
Key activities include visits by
Summary of the results
The project included two meetings with organizations from Latvia and Norway. The first meeting took place in Levanger, Norway, from October 6-8, with active members of the Latvian association—Ilze Dāve, Ineta Riepniece, and Dace Lazdiņa—attending. Norwegian partners, led by Anna Garjāne, facilitated the visit and arranged meetings with cultural institutions and representatives, including the Levanger Library, art galleries, and the Levanger Festival. The discussions introduced Latvian events, including the Gaujiena Vītols Festival, and established plans for a reciprocal visit in Latvia.
The second meeting was held in Gaujiena from October 27-29. Norwegian representatives included Anke Sommer-Lilleenget, Børge Solbakk, and Tone Furunes Adde. They were introduced to Gaujiena''s cultural heritage, visiting key landmarks such as the Gaujiena Castle and Jāzeps Vītols Museum. Discussions revolved around future collaboration opportunities, including virtual communication platforms (Teams, Zoom, WhatsApp) and potential projects in AIF, Erasmus+, and Norplus programs.
Concrete plans were made for further cooperation, including sending the terms of a visual arts competition to Norwegian partners, student participation in summer camps, teacher exchange programs, and joint choir collaborations. The meetings concluded that personal interaction is vital for developing successful collaborations and shared goals.