Interview with Ieva, ŽISPB Representative

What does it take to create a truly welcoming space for international trainees?

Host organisations play a crucial role in shaping the professional journeys of young people. In this interview, we speak with Ieva from ŽISPB, a Lithuanian NGO that has opened its doors to international trainees through the EU4EU Network, coordinated by EuGen – European Generation.

Through hosting international trainees, the organisation has discovered how cultural exchange strengthens teams and expands possibilities for local young people. Ieva shares ŽISPB’s experience of welcoming professionals from across Europe, the unexpected benefits of international collaboration, and why creating an inclusive environment matters as much as the technical work itself. She reflects on what makes trainees succeed in a new setting, and how international perspectives have transformed the way her organisation thinks about growth and teamwork.

Could you briefly describe what your company does?

ŽISPB is a Lithuanian NGO based in Šiauliai. We work mainly in the fields of open youth work, social inclusion, addiction prevention, employment support, non-formal education, and professional competence development for social workers, youth workers, teachers, and other specialists. International projects are also an important part of our work, as they allow us to learn and adapt innovative methods from partners across Europe and bring them into our everyday practice.

What motivated your company to host trainees through European programmes?

Our motivation came partly from one of our partner organisations in Spain, who shared their very positive experience with international trainees. We saw it as a good opportunity for our team to become more international and multicultural. Over the years, through European projects, we have gained a lot of practical tools, methods, and experience, and we are always happy to share this with others. At the same time, young people help us grow too, because they bring new ideas, fresh energy, and different perspectives.

What are the advantages of working with an international trainee in your team?

International trainees enrich our team and help local young people see international opportunities as something real and reachable. For our staff, it is also a valuable opportunity to strengthen professional competencies in mentoring, supervision, intercultural communication, and teamwork. So we feel that it is not only a learning experience for the trainee, but for our whole organisation.

How well do trainees usually manage to adapt to your working environment?

Trainees usually adapt quite well to our working environment. Some are quicker than others, but this is natural and can depend on personality, confidence, previous experience, or cultural background — just like with any new staff member. We try to create a supportive environment and involve trainees in real activities from the beginning, which helps them feel part of the team.

Was it easy to join the EU4EU Network, and how did you find the process? Would you participate again?

Yes, joining the EU4EU programme was very straightforward. To be honest, we expected more documentation and a more complicated process, but everything was clear, smooth, and well communicated. Absolutely — we would like hosting international trainees to become a continuous part of our organisation’s work.

Would you recommend it to others?

We already promote the programme during our monthly NGO breakfast meetings because we truly believe it is beneficial for both organisations and young people. It brings new perspectives into the team, creates meaningful international connections, and gives young people an important opportunity to gain their first professional experience in an international environment.

What do you value most in young candidates at their first work experience?

We value curiosity, openness, and courage to try new things. We do not expect young people to know everything from the beginning. What matters most is their attitude, willingness to learn, communication, and ability to adapt.

Is there a talent or characteristic in young people that is often underestimated?

I think young people are often underestimated in how quickly they can connect with others, bring creativity into daily tasks, and create a positive atmosphere around them. Especially in youth work and social activities, this natural ability to communicate and build trust can be extremely valuable.