Passion Meets Purpose with Agnė

This weekend in Stockholm, at the GLL Summit, I was reminded of how powerful it can be to pause and look at the work of a dear friend. My friend Agnė Kavaliauskienė gave a presentation that left me both inspired and proud. While she was speaking on behalf of ILTE, what struck me most was not only the initiative itself but the human story behind it: Agnė’s tireless dedication to the Lithuanian diaspora.

For as long as I’ve known her, Agnė has been a bridge-builder. She brings people together, creates opportunities for collaboration, and makes sure that the voices of Lithuanians abroad remain connected to the life of our country. Her work has never been just a job - it has been a calling, and it shows in the passion and consistency she brings to every project.

What moved me most is how naturally she connects the personal with the professional. While ILTE’s mission is about growth, resilience, and new ideas, Agnė ensures that the human element never gets lost. She reminds us that behind every strategy or initiative are people - diaspora members who want to stay connected, contribute, and be part of Lithuania’s story no matter where they live.

Usually, when I think of Agnė, I think of our friendship first: the laughter, the support, and the everyday moments. But seeing her present, I was reminded of the broader impact she makes. It is inspiring to watch someone transform their passion into concrete action - turning the energy of the diaspora into a resource for national growth, while keeping the values of connection, care, and community at the core.

Agnė, thank you for showing us what it means to serve both people and country with heart. Your work with the diaspora is not just inspiring - it’s essential. And I’m grateful to know you not only as a professional but as a friend.

To learn more about ILTE, click here and for those of you interested in filling out the questionnaire, click here.

All photography by Evelina Kvartunaite.