The Fondation “Science and Innovation Park” (ZIP) continues to develop its international cooperation by welcoming a trainee from Turkey, Fatma Yavuz, who has arrived in Latvia with the support of the Erasmus+ programme.

Fatma applied to the Erasmus+ programme during her studies. She has graduated in Computer Engineering in Turkey, which provided her with the opportunity to apply for an Erasmus+ internship abroad. Fatma looks forward to gaining new skills and knowledge while working on various projects during her internship. She is particularly interested in deepening her understanding of topics covered in the programme related to graphic design and UX/UI design (website, mobile app, and software development and design). She is particularly interested in these topics, which will allow her to combine her technical knowledge with practical experience in creativity and visual design.

This is Fatma’s second visit to Latvia. Two years ago, she participated in an Erasmus+ internship in Lithuania, during which she visited the capital of Latvia – Riga. On her first visit, Riga made a positive impression on her, especially the Old Town, and she decided to return with the support of the Erasmus+ programme. Now, living in Liepāja, she enjoys the Baltic Sea and Liepāja’s beach, the peaceful atmosphere of the city, and the friendliness of its people.

Cultural exchange is an integral part of the Erasmus+ programme. During her internship, Fatma hopes to gain a deeper understanding of Latvia, its daily life, and traditions. She is also very happy to share the culture of her own country. On her arrival Fatma delighted her colleagues at Science and Innovation Park with the traditional Turkish sweet “Turkish Delight”  (lokum), a confection made from starch and sugar syrup.

In daily life, Fatma is positive, energetic, and very open. She admits that she never allows herself to be bored and always finds ways to make her days interesting and fulfilling. She also has the ability to see the positive in every situation. During her time in Latvia, she hopes to visit Riga again and to try various adventures in the country’s natural surroundings.

Science and Innovation Park is proud to have the opportunity to host interns from various countries. Within the framework of the Erasmus+ programme, not only is the professional growth of the young people promoted, but intercultural cooperation is also encouraged, enriching the mutual experience of both students and organizations. This opportunity broadens horizons and helps build stronger connections between countries and cultures.

Fatma’s internship at Science and Innovation Park demonstrates that international cooperation benefits all parties involved, providing a valuable opportunity to grow, learn from one another, and build long-term partnerships.