Linda Paula

Welcoming a Child with Down Syndrome through International Adoption: The Wimmer Family

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.
From Thailand to Lapland: Judy’s Inspiring Erasmus Journey | Stories from the North

From Thailand to Lapland: Judy’s Inspiring Erasmus Journey | Stories from the North

Discover Judy’s inspiring journey from Thailand to the Arctic in the latest episode of Stories from the North. Host Linda Paulauska delves into Judy’s experiences as an Erasmus Mundus student at the University of Lapland, exploring cultural contrasts, personal growth, and life in Lapland. Don’t miss this uplifting story of resilience and transformation.
Diver for Passion and Work: Nikolai Jokinen

Diver for Passion and Work: Nikolai Jokinen

From plumber to commercial diver, Nikolai Jokinen’s story is one of passion and adventure. Discover how he combined his construction background with a love for the extreme, diving into a challenging underwater career.
Alopecia Doesn’t Kill the Person: Ieva Putnina’s Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment

Alopecia Doesn’t Kill the Person: Ieva Putnina’s Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment

Meet Ieva Putnina — diagnosed with Alopecia Areata at 12 years old. For years, she hid behind wigs and fear. But everything changed when she chose to embrace her true self.
From Pakistan to Lapland: Erum’s Inspiring Journey as a Single Mother | Stories from the North

From Pakistan to Lapland: Erum’s Inspiring Journey as a Single Mother | Stories from the North

Discover Erum Ali’s inspiring story in the latest Stories from the North episode. Host Linda Paulauska explores Erum’s journey from Pakistan to Finland as a single mother of two. Hear how she balances motherhood, education, and life in Lapland, showcasing courage, resilience, and determination.
Five-Time Egg Donor: Helping Families During Infertility Treatment. Aleksandra Chernova

Five-Time Egg Donor: Helping Families During Infertility Treatment. Aleksandra Chernova

Aleksandra donated eggs bringing hope to anonymous infertility-struggling families. She navigated medical tests, hormone therapy, and oocyte punctures five times.
Turning Heritage into Community: Reviving a Historic Manor through Innovation. Janis Lazdans

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.
International adoption: A Journey of Dreams Becoming Reality. Arina Cunningham

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.
On cruise board serving others with the warmest smile while deeply missing family: Chelfin Saputra

On cruise board serving others with the warmest smile while deeply missing family: Chelfin Saputra

A dedicated young man from Indonesia works tirelessly aboard a cruise ship, serving travelers with the warmest smile despite deeply missing his newborn daughter and wife.
Completing Family: The Strader Family's International Adoption Journey

Completing Family: The Strader Family's International Adoption Journey

A family opened their home to an orphan hosting program during Christmas holidays, welcoming two sisters from a Latvian orphanage, which led to international adoption.