The second training cycle for Roma community representatives will begin on March 5 in Latvia

In spring 2026, the Valmiera Development Agency, in cooperation with project partners, will launch the second training cycle for representatives of the Roma community, continuing efforts to develop labour market skills and strengthen essential life skills.

This training cycle follows the first phase implemented in autumn 2025, during which participants acquired labour market skills while also strengthening their self-confidence, motivation, and sense of belonging.

The training will begin on March 5 and will take place two days per week, comprising a total of 20 training days. Sessions will be held at the Valmiera makerspace DARE, providing an opportunity to develop new skills in a creative and practical environment.

Upon successful completion of the training, participants will have the opportunity to gain practical experience in companies within the Valmiera municipality, reinforcing acquired skills and supporting their integration into the labour market.

“This training cycle is not only about knowledge – it is about building confidence, encouragement, and taking practical steps toward employment and a more stable everyday life,” emphasize the project implementers.

What does the second training cycle offer?

Labour Market Skills Modules

The training programme includes several interconnected modules:

• Career Development – participants identify their strengths, skills, and interests, develop a personal career development plan, and explore various labour market opportunities.
• Digital Skills for Employment – online job search, professional email and social media use, as well as an introduction to artificial intelligence tools and cybersecurity.
• Financial Literacy – understanding salary calculations, taxes, social contributions, and personal budget planning.
• CV and Job Interview Preparation – creating a professional CV and motivation letter, preparing for job interviews, and developing communication skills.
• Workplace Culture and Ethics – teamwork, respectful communication, conflict resolution, and professional conduct in the workplace.

Life Skills Modules

In addition to labour market skills, significant attention is given to personal development:

• Holistic Health and Well-being – balancing physical, emotional, and social health, including self-care practices.
• Identity and Values – strengthening personal and cultural identity and making decisions aligned with one’s values.
• Motivation and Belonging – fostering internal motivation and strengthening a sense of belonging and community participation.
• Autonomy and Community Strength – balancing personal independence with belonging to a community.
• Mindfulness and Parenting Role – positive parenting approaches, strengthening parent-child relationships, and responsible decision-making within the family.

Participant Experiences from the First Training Cycle

Feedback from the first cycle highlights the practical and inspiring impact of the programme:
“It was good that the trainers understood Roma culture and spoke in a way that was easy to understand.”
“Learning how to write a CV was very useful – it will really help in job searching.”
“I liked learning about artificial intelligence and how it can be used in everyday life and work.”
“The motivation topic was inspiring – there were examples showing that we can also achieve more.”
“It was important that we could learn from one another.”

How to Apply?

Interested participants are invited to complete the online application form:
ej.uz/hero2026

For additional information:
+371 29100905

This training cycle promotes not only individual growth but also community cohesion and social inclusion, creating opportunities for Roma community representatives to take a more confident and secure step into the labour market.

This activity was supported as part of HERO, an Interreg Central Baltic Programme 2021-2027 project co-funded by the European Union.

Anete Todu
Communication Project Manager
Valmiera Development Agency
+371 26394380
anete.todu@valmierasnovads.lv