Experience stories
From Ukraine to Finland: Mariia’s Journey of Resilience and Hope | Stories from the North
Hear Mariia Kashych’s powerful story of resilience and hope in the latest Stories from the North episode. Host Linda Paulauska explores Mariia’s journey from fleeing war-torn Ukraine to rebuilding her life through studies in Germany and Finland. An inspiring testament to courage and determination—don’t miss it!
Ginevra Papi's Erasmus Mundus Journey to Study Service Design - From Italy to Latvia
In this podcast series, she shares her life from childhood until now. She is one of the students in the Erasmus Mundus master’s degree program “Service Design Strategies and Innovations,” which leads her to experience different countries and study in a very diverse class.
International adoption: A Journey of Dreams Becoming Reality. Arina Cunningham
While facing challenges in orphanages and foster care, Arina dreamt of a loving family. As she grew older, believing no one wanted to adopt a teenager, her dream faded. Suddenly, at 15, she met a loving family through international adoption and moved from Latvia to Texas, USA.
"Alopecia Doesn’t Kill the Person, but It Kills the Self-Confidence". A Hair-Loss Story by Ieva Putnina.
Ieva faced alopecia and lost her hair at the age of 13. Hiding under wigs, she feared judgment. It took her 15 years of self-exploration to open up in public, and now she is an inspiration to many.
Turning Heritage into Community: Reviving a Historic Manor through Innovation. Janis Lazdans
Latvian entrepreneur Janis Lazdans brings innovation to cultural restoration by reviving Padure Manor through equity crowdfunding — the first public share heritage project in Latvia. He shows how communities can co-own and restore historic landmarks together.
Welcoming a Child with Down Syndrome through International Adoption: The Wimmer Family
An orphaned girl with Down Syndrome was offered for adoption to 127 families, all of whom declined. The girl’s story deeply touched the Wimmer family, leading them to embark on international adoption before even seeing a photo of the child.
Transforming Lives Worldwide: Katie Leatherwood's Prosthetic Care Mission
Katie Leatherwood transforms lives with prosthetic solutions, helping individuals who’ve lost limbs. From Texas to the global stage, she’s currently making a significant impact in Latvia and aiding Ukraine.
Kiwoong Nam - Stories from the North with Linda Paulauska
Kiwoong Nam shares his inspiring move from South Korea to Rovaniemi - Finland’s Northern city, and his story of adjusting to Arctic life with his family.
Somshubhra Ray: Erasmus Mundus Journey to Study Service Design - From India to Latvia
Somshubhra Ray is from India. He shares his life from childhood until now, as a student in the Erasmus Mundus master’s degree program “Service Design Strategies and Innovations.”
Young Artist's Paintings Purchased Across the World: Marat's Dzjubenko
Marats Dzjubenko began painting at just 2 years old. By his early teens, his artwork was exhibited and purchased worldwide, marking him as a rising star in the art world.









