safety. Therefore, we felt it was time to also focus on what we can achieve together across borders, rather than how we tackle the negative aspects. The SI already had extensive experience in this area, so it felt very natural to team up.
8
BALTICs. THROUGH TIME & SPACE
Olga: True, we strongly believe that the future of our region is built through reliable networks, trust and creativity. The difference in cultures, traditions, experiences and values is most crucial in letting the participants create something important not only for themselves but also for the community. The network of hundreds of BalticLab soul mates has spread from Sweden to Ukraine
Frans Robert
including Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia, Russia, Norway, Belarus and the sky is the limit.
“Young, creative minds in the Baltic Sea region can drive innovation and integration. BalticLab brings these minds together in the same space to create and explore new perspectives and sources for inspiration.” The people behind BalticLab do not beat around the bush; they want to explore the future and potential of the Baltic Sea region. This innovation programme brings entrepreneurs and creatives in the Baltic Sea region together to form a community and network that can empower the region as a whole to become more innovative, creative and prosperous. In addition to plenty of very tasty meals – one of the main topics of conversation, BalticLab consists of speed dating sessions, workshops, lectures and much more; so we wanted to find out what BalticLab is all about. That is why we met with Mirjam (Külm) from the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) and Olga (Knudsen) from the Swedish Institute (SI) for – of course – a dinner. Together we talked about what BalticLab is today, how it could evolve in the future and about the potential of increased integration in the Baltic Sea region. What vision drove the start of BalticLab 4 years ago? Mirjam: When BalticLab first came up as a concept, one of the ideas was that there are not enough platforms for young talents to meet and
How would you define the Baltic Sea region now and how do you envision it in the future? Mirjam: There is a certain emotional landscape which binds the peoples of the Baltic Sea region together. Like the North Wind, there is a sense and appreciation that comes from living in a place that enjoys short but light summers, tempered by long and dark winters.
collaborate in our region, especially for young talented women. There were several national platforms and Nordic platforms but nothing that would really give space to bring together the talent from across Sweden to Russia, to the Baltics and to Poland. So we wanted to do something for the creative and entrepreneurial professionals, as opposed to politicians and other groups, who already had established networks in the region. Another aspect of the founding was the fact that a lot of the work of the CBSS was linked to tackling the negative aspects of borders – human trafficking, civil security emergencies and nuclear
That essence engenders a certain “can do culture”. The somewhat “harshness” of our past has entrenched in us an understanding that some things need to get done, and that whatever happens we must continue moving forward. This is very close to an almost entrepreneurial mindset, which can be very beneficial for the region in the years to come. This is something we would like to build on in the future. How does the inclusion of Belarus and Ukraine in the BalticLab programme fit into this entrepreneurial mindset? Mirjam: For us, the definition of the Baltic Sea region is broad, it includes our neighbouring countries, with whom we have historical ties. We believe the spirit of inclusiveness is enriching for all aspects of our lives in this region. In today’s world, neither natural forces nor even economic