1. Spring Seminar Latvia 6th - 12th June 2009 ‘Rich in Diversity – United Growth in the Countryside’ By Colette Heritage

2. Selection Day ► Attended the Selection day held in Stratford Upon Avon on 6th December 2008 ► Was interviewed by key National YFC leaders. ► Had an opportunity to meet other YFC members from around the Country.

3. My journey before the Seminar… ► Met up with Bob – The other half of the team (On the left!) ► Booked our flights to Latvia ► Gained sponsorship from JCB, my County Office and my Club.

4. Day 1 – The journey begins... ► Travelled to Manchester Airport for the Flight to Riga...(First time Bob’s left the Country!) ► Arrived at Koni Mill in the Valmeira region of Latvia my home for the next six days.

5. Day 2 – Official Welcome & Intercontinental Buffet ► Explored the Koni Mill – Historical Working Mill Buffet of local produce from all over Europe, a selection we brought; Derbyshire Ale, Melton Mowbray pork pie, locally sourced cheeses.

6. Day 3 – Project Café & Film Evening ► Received presentations from Leading people of the Community including the Minister of Agriculture and local people of the Community including the Minister of Agriculture and local municipalities. municipalities. ► Looked at local Latvian produce. ► Had a chance to come up with ideas to help the local businesses. Later... Watched a film on tolerance & inclusion held in the Barn....

7. Day 4 – Visit to Local Youth Enterprises & BBQ in Nature Visited Camphill a local farm supporting handicapped young people in Latvia. Had a team trip to a local Blacksmith to try out welding everyday items into a work of art.

8. Day 5 – Marketplace of Creative Business Ideas Explained our creative business ideas to the young enterprises Showed everyone our team iron work of art!

9. Day 6 – Future Steps & Farewell Party Experienced traditional folk dancing... And Latvian belly - dancing

10. Day 7 - Goodbye Just some of the friends I made whilst on the Spring Seminar in Latvia... Friends for Life!