What is it?
The Young Professionals leadership program was established in 2022. It is created by the Cooperation Fund with financial support from Swedbank and SEB.
The program is bilateral and it is annual. Eight participants from each country are selected, and year by year the network of alums ir growing, creating a strong and lasting network. This is significant for all participants, both privately and professionally, but its importance also must be emphasized for the future bilateral relations between the nations around the Baltic Sea.
Be part of something extraordinary, something that will develop your leadership skills and, simultaneously, give you a better understanding of a neighbouring country! It is free of charge - this is for you!
Interested?
The requirements are few and easy:
you should be in the age range between 25 and 40
you should have either proven leadership skills or a sincere interest in leadership
the program is short, you must be ready to invest the time required
The program does not cost anything more than the time invested, all-in-all five working days. They are filled with intensive interaction through discussions with high-profile knowledgeable speakers as well as during workshops with other participants. The content is specially designed by the Sweden-Latvia Cooperation fund, and the program is financialy supported by Swedbank and SEB.
The last date for submitting in 2026 has passed but you are welcome to submitt an application for 2027.
The group in 2023
Testimonials from previous participants:
It’s SO EASY to surround yourself (read: myself) with people who are most like you – and there’s a lot of beauty in that. However, with different perspectives, values, and motivations, you’re challenged and grow in entirely new ways.
— Linus Atterby, participant from Sweden in 2025
It is always an amazing experience to meet like-minded young professionals who each are an expert in their own field, but the participants of this program were absolutely amazing, as everyone was sharing their experience, so highly motivated and ready to just gain the maximum from this program. I could not imagine a different place, where we could be inspired by so many high-level field specialists and leaders, taking the time to share their knowledge and experience with us. It was truly a remarkable experience.
— Pauls Pencis from Latvia, participant in 2023
This program has been one of the absolute highlights of my entire work life so far. I could never have imagined when I applied how much fun I would have. The program is highly rewarding, both in terms of learning about our cultures as well as leadership skills and styles. I learned many things that I can make use of already today in my career, but that will also be helpful in the future. I wish we had more sessions to look forward to! Luckily, we have the Alumni network.
— Caroline Sundin, Sweden, participant in 2024
I was able to have unrestricted access to ask questions and meet top-level leaders during the program, which I think is a great and privileged opportunity for every young professional who is still at the beginning of his career. I enjoyed every bit of the moment spent with other participants and the dialogues that we had between us. I want to use this opportunity to thank the organizers of the program, sponsors and mentors who taught and spent their time with us.
— Bruno Kuplausks from Latvia, participant in 2022
