PURK · Learn · Connect · Belong
WP003 Socio-cultural integration and inclusion
These gatherings were proudly hosted under the Red Cross project WP003 Socio-cultural integration and inclusion (Initiative A003.004 Community Engagement Initiatives). Our goal was simple but powerful: to help Ukrainians comfortably adapt to life in Estonia
We are incredibly proud to celebrate the successful completion of five inspiring community events in Pärnu, organized by NGO PURK in partnership with the Estonian Red Cross! 🤝
These gatherings were proudly hosted under the Red Cross project WP003 Socio-cultural integration and inclusion (Initiative A003.004 Community Engagement Initiatives). Our goal was simple but powerful: to help Ukrainians comfortably adapt to life in Estonia, practice the language, explore local opportunities, and build a warm, supportive community. 💛💙
From exploring ancient folk traditions and upcycling clothes to cooking local food and discussing vital civic information, we connected people from Estonia, Ukraine, and beyond. Through creativity, shared meals, and meaningful conversations, we built a space where everyone feels they belong. A huge thank you to the Red Cross, our incredible local partners, instructors, and every single participant who shared their warmth and laughter with us. 🕊️✨
Check out the photos below to see the magic of each masterclass! 👇
Culinary Masterclass: Healthy & Quality Eating 🥗 Delicious, healthy, and incredibly cozy! Participants turned into chefs to discover fresh, local Estonian produce and cook up nutritious, unique recipes. We learned about local Pärnu food producers and ended the day with a warm, shared tasting session. Special thanks to Merle Einola and MTÜ Roheliselt Värske Elu for sharing such valuable culinary knowledge and creating a fantastic atmosphere!
Community Crafting: Upcycling Friday 🧵 The perfect way to spend a Friday evening: giving beloved old clothes a new life! In a truly international company, we drank tea, listened to music, and learned how to creatively repair, sew, and decorate our garments. Guided once again by our amazing head designer Julia Canzian, this masterclass was the ultimate blend of sustainable crafting, language practice, and beautiful community connection! 🌟
Loovustuba: Mardipäev & Kadripäev Traditions 🎭 We dove deep into the rich world of the Estonian folk calendar! Participants learned about historic mardisandi and kadrisandi customs, sang traditional songs, and crafted their own vivid, festive masks. A huge thank you to our wonderful teacher Endla Murd from the Maria-Magdaleena Gild for her professional, heartfelt guidance and for helping us keep cultural heritage alive!
Community Meeting: Life & Integration in Pärnu ℹ️ An essential gathering dedicated to everyday life in our city! Together with local city government representatives, Chelsea Etin, connected NGOs, and Helena Viks, we discussed crucial topics like language learning, employment, education, and social support. We were also thrilled to present our new practical guide, “Your Journey in Pärnu,” to help new residents feel right at home.
Creative Workshop: Nature Eco-Design 🍂 Crafting magic directly from nature’s gifts! Using autumn leaves, acorns, branches, and wood, participants created elegant brooches, original keychains, and beautiful home decor. Endless thanks to our talented head designer, Julia Canzian, for guiding this inspiring workshop. Every piece turned out to be a unique, tasteful masterpiece filled with the warmth of human hands