On 6–9 May 2025, Panevėžys city municipality administration hosted an international event bringing together participants from seven European countries – Romania, Spain, Poland, Italy, Bulgaria, Latvia, and Lithuania. The event was part of the European Union-funded project “Energy Challenge: The Power of W – Sustainable Energy for Developing European Towns,” supported through the CERV programme (Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values).

The main aim of the meeting was to strengthen participants' skills in leadership, project management, and communication, while encouraging new approaches to sustainability and gender equality in energy-related fields. Through interactive sessions and practical workshops, participants explored how to lead effectively and make an impact in their communities while promoting inclusive and future-oriented solutions.

The programme included workshops with Tomas Lekavičius, a mentor from the Women Go Tech initiative, a tour of the Panevėžys STEAM Center, and a visit to the Panevėžys Open Youth Centre, where participants learned more about youth inclusion and local initiatives linked to the European Green Deal.

We were honoured to welcome Ms. Asta Kulbačiauskienė, Head of the CERV National Contact Point in Lithuania, who visited the event and expressed her appreciation for the high-quality implementation of CERV projects in Panevėžys. Her positive feedback highlights the municipality administration’s strong engagement in EU-level initiatives that promote active citizenship, equality, and cross-border cooperation.

Cultural exchange and networking were also important parts of the experience – guests enjoyed a guided walk through Panevėžys city centre and had the opportunity to discover Lithuanian hospitality during shared evening dinners.

Panevėžys city municipality administration is grateful to all project partners and guests for their collaboration and engagement, and is proud to contribute to building stronger, more connected, and forward-looking European communities.