Approaching the Finish Line: 50 Success Stories and 3 Inspiring Videos from “CeMeWe” in Zemgale

The beginning of 2026 marks the final phase and a significant milestone for the international “CeMeWe” project. While the initial focus was on identifying suitable support methods and building trust, we now see clear results. As the project approaches its conclusion, 50 out of the 92 participants in the Zemgale region have already entered employment. However, beyond these statistics lies a significant trend: a shift in how women view their place in the Latvian economy, moving from passive job seeking to actively monetising their skills and pursuing entrepreneurship.

A particularly noteworthy indicator is the high proportion of self-employed individuals -14 of the employed women have chosen to start their own independent businesses rather than taking traditional employee roles. This is often a deliberate strategy. Faced with difficulties fitting into rigid working hours or finding offers matching their qualifications, participants are successfully leveraging their talents to enrich the local environment. Consequently, the range of services in Zemgale is being diversified – from beauty services and handicrafts to private tutoring and event organisation. This confirms that successful integration can also mean creating one’s own workplace, offering necessary flexibility and independence.

Regional Specifics and Long-term Investment

Alongside individual entrepreneurship, project data highlights regional labour market specifics, where available vacancies often dictate integration directions. In Jēkabpils, sectors like agriculture and rehabilitation are prominent, while in Jelgava and its surroundings, trade, food production, and cultural sectors take the lead. However, regardless of the chosen occupation, mentors highlight a crucial long-term benefit: motivation for language learning. Observations show that even those not yet employed are purposefully taking state language proficiency tests after joining the project. This is an investment in the future, signaling a desire to settle in Zemgale and build a long-term career rather than just seeking short-term income.

Digital Stories: A Resource for Inspiration

To provide inspiration for both job seekers and the wider public, the project has produced three powerful video stories. These serve as proof that successful inclusion in the Latvian labour market is possible, even with initial language barriers or a limited network. Through personal experiences, three key themes are highlighted: resilience, proactivity, and employer openness.

Entrepreneurship and Adaptability: Jūlija’s Story

The first story introduces Jūlija, vividly illustrating resilience and the ability to adapt. Arriving in Jelgava from Kherson, she initially hoped for a quick return home but soon realized that life cannot be “put on pause.” Jūlija made a brave decision to turn her hobby – furniture restoration – into an independent business. Her journey from placing her first ad on social media to managing an equipped workshop in the city center proves that goal-oriented action can overcome a lack of resources. Jūlija’s main message to other women is a call to action: “Do not put it off until tomorrow or later, because tomorrow might not come. You must create your future now.”

Proactivity in Regulated Professions: Pavlina’s Story

Pavlina’s story as an emergency medical assistant breaks stereotypes about impossible barriers in regulated professions. She did not rely on passively waiting for vacancies but acted proactively – simply finding the nearest station on “Google Maps” and going there in person to inquire about job opportunities. This initiative, combined with persistence in the document recognition process, allowed her to successfully return to her profession.

The Employer’s Perspective: Roberts’ Story

The final video offers a view from the employer’s perspective. Entrepreneur Roberts, whose team has successfully integrated six Ukrainian citizens, addresses common concerns with his experience. He emphasizes that the main value is the employee’s motivation and sense of responsibility, which is often more important than flawless language skills at the beginning. At the same time, Roberts draws attention to the need to improve the support system, calling for more flexible language learning opportunities and greater attention to the mental health of employees.

The video stories and success examples emerging from the project serve as a lasting resource that will continue to inspire initiative and courageous action even after the program concludes.

This publication has been prepared with the financial support of the European Union. The Zemgale Planning Region is solely responsible for its content, and it may not reflect the official position of the European Union.