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Liene Jurgelane
Co-founder of new visions I Cultural practitioner I Anthropologist I Designing and facilitating learning experiences. I Echoing Green 2019 Fellow
Professional Background
Liene Jurgelane is a dedicated cultural practitioner, educator, and anthropologist who has made significant contributions to the arts and education sectors. As the co-founder of the educational collective and consultancy new visions, she plays a vital role in transforming existing narratives of leadership and artistic production within the cultural landscape. Through her extensive experience, Liene is committed to fostering more just, equitable, and inclusive practices in the arts.
Her journey in the cultural sector includes a pivotal role at the Kanepes Culture Centre in Riga, where she contributed to creating an independent cultural hub that reflects contemporary needs and promotes diverse artistic expressions. Liene has also coordinated activities for the Imagine 2020 network in Latvia, focusing on global learning and anti-discrimination education. Her background equips her with a unique perspective on the intersection of art, culture, and education, enabling her to effectively navigate these fields while advocating for positive social change.
Beyond her organizational roles, Liene is actively involved in the community, exemplified by her work as a co-organizer of the annual music, arts, and education festival, Kometa. This festival serves as a platform to inspire creativity and encourage collaboration among artists, educators, and the public, further solidifying her commitment to cultural education and community engagement. In recognition of her significant contributions to the field, she was honored as a 2019 Echoing Green Fellow, a distinction that highlights her innovative approaches to social challenges through art and education.
Education and Achievements
Liene Jurgelane's academic journey is marked by a strong foundation in social sciences and cultural studies. She pursued her studies in Social Anthropology at Rīga Stradiņš University, where she gained valuable insights into human behavior and societal structures. Building upon this knowledge, she completed a BA in Arts, Culture Theory, and Management at Latvijas Kulturas Akademija. Not stopping there, Liene further enhanced her expertise by earning a Master's degree in Cultural and Social Anthropology from Latvijas Universitate.
These educational pursuits not only reflect her intellectual curiosity but also anchor her understanding of cultural processes, providing her with tools to influence the arts and education landscape effectively. Her work through new visions, as well as her participation in various initiatives, underscores her commitment to applying academic insights to real-world challenges.
Notable Organizations
Liene’s professional journey includes several esteemed organizations that have shaped her expertise and commitment to cultural advancement. As the co-founder of new visions GbR, she works alongside a team to empower leaders and organizations in the arts and culture sectors. The consultancy focuses on collaborative approaches to education, creating impactful workshops and research initiatives that challenge conventional narratives.
Her previous role as the co-organizer of Festival Kometa demonstrates her dedication to fostering community through the arts, providing a vibrant platform for artistic expression and dialogue. Moreover, her experience as a Trainer and Facilitator enhances her ability to engage diverse audiences in meaningful discussions about culture and education.
In her capacity as a Producer and Coordinator of Imagine 2020 at the New Theatre Institute of Latvia, Liene spearheaded projects that promoted global learning and anti-discrimination initiatives. Additionally, her involvement as Head of Program at Kaņepes Kultūras centrs allowed her to shape innovative programs that catered to the needs of a dynamic cultural community.
Liene’s versatility as a mentor and educator is evident in her work with GLEN Europe and Iespējamā misija, where she has guided emerging thinkers and practitioners in their educational journeys. Her teaching role at Riga Teika secondary school further illustrates her passion for nurturing the next generation of leaders and changemakers.
Conclusion
Liene Jurgelane stands out as a transformative figure at the crossroads of arts, culture, and education. Through her dedication to social justice and equity, she has created impactful initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences. Her journey is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and commitment to fostering inclusive environments that challenge traditional narratives and promote positive change.