Meet our new Group 4 Board Member: Vendija Volosovska

We're completing our introductions to the newest members of the Rural Youth Europe Board, finding out more about their backgrounds, their involvement in rural youth organisations and what they hope to bring to RYE during their mandate.

Finally, meet Vendija Volosovska, our new Group 4 Board Member, representing our member organisations across Eastern Europe.

Vendija comes from Jaunsaule, a small rural village in Latvia, and has been involved with Latvian 4H since 2017. With a passion for rural life, volunteering and medicine, she's determined to make sure young people living in rural communities have their voices heard.

We caught up with Vendija to find out more!

Firstly, introduce yourself! Where are you from and what is your involvement with Latvian 4H?

I'm Vendija Volosovska, a former member of Latvian 4H, a current resident of the Latvian countryside and a future doctor!

I'm from Jaunsaule, a small rural village in Latvia. I'm currently a Latvian 4H volunteer and an active member of the rural youth community.

Tell us a little more about your involvement with Latvian 4H and the skills or experiences you've gained through the organisation.

Latvian 4H has been like a family to me since 2017, when I first undertook a project growing onions in two different types of garden plots. Since then, I've taken on numerous other projects, ranging from business ventures to research initiatives.

The organisation has taught me so much. I've learnt to see tasks through to completion, appreciate my home, the countryside and the unwavering support of my family. It's also helped me connect with other rural young people, particularly through Latvian 4H summer camps, and develop my confidence in public speaking by presenting my harvest to fellow members each autumn.

Perhaps most importantly, Latvian 4H taught me the value of volunteering and that having a kind heart is one of the most important things in life. Today, I continue to volunteer with Latvian 4H, as well as at the Children's Hospital.

As you begin your involvement with Rural Youth Europe, what are you most looking forward to?

I sincerely want to ensure that Group 4 organisations feel heard and supported by Rural Youth Europe, continuing the fantastic work started by Jana Apaļā, our Vice Chairperson for External Affairs.

I'm also looking forward to drawing inspiration from other active young Europeans and sharing my own experiences back home in Latvia!

Why did you want to become the Group 4 representative for Rural Youth Europe?

I believe I understand rural youth because I've lived in the countryside since childhood.

The main reason I put myself forward was the opportunity to make a positive difference on their behalf!

I know that rural young people aren't inactive. They simply don't always have access to the same opportunities as other young people, especially when so many aspects of their lives are dictated by school bus schedules!

There's been plenty of talk about these challenges, but I want to take action!

What would you like to achieve during your time on the RYE Board?

My main goal is to make a meaningful contribution through both my work and my knowledge.

I'd really appreciate the opportunity to combine my involvement with Rural Youth Europe and my passion for medicine, which holds a special place in my heart alongside my love for rural life.

Another goal of mine is to teach all the Board Members a Latvian folk song, as poetry is an important part of who I am!

And, of course, I want to fully enjoy this opportunity provided by Latvian 4H, an organisation that has brought not only potato planting and chicken rearing into my life, but also a genuine drive to take action!

And finally, what is your favourite thing to bring to an international buffet?

Given that I live near the Lithuanian border, I have to say virteņi, which are somewhat similar to Latvian-style dumplings. They should always be eaten with sour cream and prepared with love!

A big welcome to Vendija! We're looking forward to working with her during her mandate and seeing how she helps champion the voices and opportunities of rural young people across Eastern Europe.

With all four of our new Board Members now introduced, we're excited to see what they will achieve together for Rural Youth Europe!