The HERO project, implemented by Fida and Latvia’s Valmiera Development Agency, has entered a new phase. In June, a closing event held in Latvia brought together project participants, experts and partners from Finland and Latvia to celebrate the completion of the training programme.
Over the course of two days, participants reflected on the knowledge and experience gained throughout the project, shared stories of personal growth and transformation, drew inspiration from the experiences of fellow Roma community members, and received certificates recognising the successful completion of the training programme.
The aim of the HERO project is to enhance the employability and labour market competitiveness of Roma community members by strengthening both life skills and work-related knowledge and competencies. The project is jointly implemented by Fida International (Finland) and the Valmiera Development Agency (Latvia) within the framework of the Interreg Central Baltic Programme.
Throughout the project, participants took part in a training programme specifically designed to address the needs of Roma communities. The programme combined five life skills modules with five labour market skills modules. Topics covered included holistic health and wellbeing, identity and values, motivation and belonging, financial literacy, digital skills, career development, job interview preparation, and workplace culture.
New self-confidence and motivation
During the event, participants from Latvia and Finland shared their experiences, insights, challenges and achievements gained throughout the learning journey. The programme also featured inspirational stories from Roma community representatives, creative activities and informal discussions, all of which encouraged peer learning and the development of new connections.
One of the project’s most significant achievements was not only the acquisition of new knowledge and skills, but also the strengthening of participants’ self-confidence and motivation.
The competencies developed through the project help participants better prepare for the labour market, recognise their strengths and take the next steps in their professional development. Participants were also provided with opportunities to gain practical experience in local businesses, enabling them to apply and strengthen the skills acquired during the training in real working environments.
Internships will continue
Although the training activities have now been completed, the HERO project will continue to support participants in finding internships and employment opportunities. In addition, an international online seminar will be organised for experts, local authority representatives and organisations working with groups at risk of social exclusion.
Text and photo: Anete Todu, Valmiera Development Agency
This activity was supported as part of HERO, an Interreg Central Baltic Programme 2021-2027 project co-funded by the European Union.
