Liepāja 2027 volunteers gather for International Volunteer Day celebrations

On Friday, 5 December, participants of the Liepāja 2027 volunteer programme “Mission (un)rest” were invited to the International Volunteer Day celebration “Light Within You” at the “Great Amber” concert hall. The event offered a moment to reflect on the achievements of 2025 and to thank volunteers for their valuable contribution to the implementation of the Liepāja 2027 programme so far.

The most active volunteers were recognized in six categories:

• Perseverance of the Year – Daina Ozola
  For a remarkable investment of time and energy, continuous involvement, and unwavering dedication that has filled the Liepāja 2027 mission with meaningful work and achievements.
• Reliability of the Year – Baiba Remese
  For deep commitment, self-motivation in project implementation, and a strong sense of responsibility — for being someone who can always be relied upon and who brings stability to the team.
• Travelling Volunteer of the Year – Anastasija Lepa
  For enthusiasm and persistence in Liepāja 2027 volunteer work, demonstrating that distance is no obstacle.
• Accessibility Advocate of the Year – Nellija Eglīte-Briede
  For warmth, empathy, and outstanding contributions to improving accessibility and creating an inclusive environment in Liepāja, as well as the ability to inspire others through her attitude.
• Initiative of the Year – Paula Kaptelija
  For a proactive and determined approach to volunteer work, for the courage to take responsibility and participate in strategy development, and for the willingness to inspire those around her.
• Newcomer of the Year – Līga Riekstiņa
  For the courage to explore a new path, fully investing in volunteer work with energy, ideas, and inspiration.

The festive atmosphere was enriched by performances from jazz musicians and the contemporary dance company SIXTH, who presented excerpts from their production “Brīvprātīgā verdzība”.

At the end of the evening, volunteers wrote heartfelt greeting cards that will be sent to retired teachers from the association “Zelta Rudens” and to volunteers in Évora, the other European Capital of Culture 2027 — symbolically passing on the light and goodwill each of them carries.

Thank you to every volunteer involved in the “Mission (Un)rest” programme! Your dedication, energy, and time help shape the story that all of Europe will experience in 2027.