For Foreign Voice of Lithuania
Florent Georgesco
Writer, cultural journalist, editor of the literary supplement of Le Monde | France
For promoting Lithuanian culture in the French media
Florent Georgesco, a French writer and journalist, brings years of experience at the leading French daily Le Monde, where he now edits the literary supplement and serves as a deputy editor for the humanities at Le Monde des livres.
His first visit to Lithuania, shortly after its independence, sparked a lasting admiration for the country. Over the years, Florent has reviewed nearly every Lithuanian book published in French and written numerous articles on Lithuanian culture, inspired by his regular visits.
In autumn 2024, in collaboration with the magazine Literature and Art, Le Monde released a special edition. During France’s Lithuanian Cultural Season, Le Monde des livres, under Florent’s direction, highlighted Lithuanian literature, theater, and exhibitions, enhancing cultural ties between the two nations.
Yuko Yamasaki
Lithuanian cultural ambassador, Ukraine aid activist | Japan
For serving as a cultural ambassador of Lithuania in Japan
Yuko Yamasaki, the wife of former Japanese Ambassador to Lithuania Shiro Yamasaki, is a unique figure who has united Lithuanian and Japanese cultures through art, music, and charity.
During her time in Lithuania, she mastered the Lithuanian kanklės and, upon returning to Japan, launched the Linen Furoshiki project, blending Lithuanian linen with Japan’s traditional gift-wrapping art.
Yuko is also deeply engaged in humanitarian work, collaborating with the charity foundation Rugutė to support Ukrainian children with cancer and their families. As Lithuania’s voice in Japan, she promotes Lithuanian children’s literature, including the Japanese translation of the Kakė Makė books, and fosters culinary exchanges by introducing Lithuanian cuisine to local Japanese communities.
Stephen Knox Jones
Biochemist, scientist | United States of America, Lithuania
For creating new international opportunities in Lithuania's life sciences sector
Stephen Knox Jones, a biochemist who completed his postdoctoral studies at the University of Texas in 2021, chose Vilnius University’s Life Sciences Centre to advance his career.
He became the first scientist in Lithuania to secure a European Research Council Starting Grant and received a prestigious award from the European Molecular Biology Organization.
In Lithuania, Stephen established the International Association for the Support of Scientists, aiding foreign researchers in adapting to their new environment and enhancing Lithuania’s reputation as a global hub for scientific talent.
Through his participation in international conferences, Stephen highlights Lithuania’s scientific achievements, strengthening its global image in the life sciences field.
For Investments Attracted to Lithuania
Trevor Hanbury
Head of Cencora Lithuania, Senior Vice President Finance | United Kingdom, Lithuania
For long-standing ambassadorial service to Lithuania in attracting foreign investment
Trevor Hanbury, a UK national, has been leading the Cencora (formerly AmerisourceBergen, World Courier) Center of Excellence in Lithuania since its establishment in 2018.
Over a decade ago, Trevor recognized Lithuania's potential when the company he represented was searching for a location for a new service center. His influential role in this decision and ongoing advocacy have been crucial to the successful launch and growth of Cencora's Lithuanian office.
Today, the company employs over 530 people in Lithuania and continues to expand. The Center of Excellence in Lithuania was Cencora's first globally and remains its largest, playing a key role in shaping the company’s global business services strategy.
Elinga Kavaliauskienė
Head of Rocket Software Lithuania
For developing and promoting Lithuania's technology sector worldwide
For over a decade, Elinga has held senior positions in foreign-owned companies in Lithuania, playing a key role in strengthening the country's economy. For the past five years, she has led the Lithuanian office of Rocket Software, a U.S.-based technology company with over 200 employees.
Under Elinga's leadership, the company has grown twice as much this year, experienced steady growth, expanding its operations and creating new opportunities in the Lithuanian market. To add, Rocket Software has opened its first low-level programming academy, which was specifically launched in Lithuania. Thanks to this academy, Lithuania will become even more competitive in the IT market. Elinga has not only bolstered Lithuania's presence within Rocket Software's global organization but also actively contributes to various initiatives, business partnerships, and knowledge-sharing efforts, helping to attract other foreign investors to Lithuania.
Sigitas Žvirblis
Managing Director of Intersurgical UAB
For long-standing development of Lithuanian industry, creating a positive impact within the regions
Sigitas Žvirblis has served as the CEO of Intersurgical since the company expanded into Lithuania in 1994.
Thanks to the dedication and expertise of Sigitas and his team, the company has experienced significant growth, becoming one of the largest manufacturing plants in the country with over 2,400 employees. With two-thirds of Pabradė's population working at Intersurgical and the rest coming from nearby towns and villages, the company has had a profound impact on the region's development.
Sigitas is also committed to training and talent development, with a particular focus on empowering the younger generation by fostering partnerships with higher education institutions. Under his leadership, Intersurgical continues to thrive in Lithuania, and this year, the company announced a €28 million investment in Pabradė.
For Fostering Young Lithuanian Talents Abroad
Lithuanian Expatriate Student Internship (LISS) / Romena Čiūtienė
United States of America, Belgium
For fostering connections between diaspora students and Lithuania through internships
Lithuanian International Student Services (LISS), initiated by the Lithuanian-American community in 2009, is a five-week program offering Lithuanian-American and Lithuanian-Canadian students internships in Lithuania aligned with their fields of study.
Participants not only gain professional experience but also improve their Lithuanian language skills and deepen their understanding of Lithuanian identity and culture through immersive activities.
Since 2019, Romena Čiūtienė has led the program, involving 75 students while expanding its scope and partner network. Her efforts position Lithuania as a modern technological hub, inspiring many participants to consider Lithuania as a destination for further studies or career opportunities.
Vytautas Jankauskas, Dr. / „LT Big Brother“
Political scientist, former head of the mentoring program LT Big Brother | Switzerland
For developing an international mentoring initiative to support young people
Vytautas Jankauskas, a distinguished doctor of social sciences and expert in international relations and development, works for the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva.
For several years, he led LT Big Brother, the largest mentoring program for the Lithuanian diaspora, uniting professionals from 24 countries. Under Vytautas' leadership, the program reached new heights, empowering more than 1,000 young Lithuanians over two years to grow both personally and professionally. His initiatives have positioned LT Big Brother as a model for strengthening Lithuania’s connections with its diaspora, cultivating talent ready to contribute to the country’s future.
Lithuanian language school "4 winds" / Arūnas and Aušra Teišerskiai
Ireland
For advancing Lithuanian language education and strengthening the connection between diaspora children and Lithuania
For 20 years, the 4 Winds Lithuanian School in Dublin has been the largest Lithuanian school in Europe and the third largest globally. Across two independent departments, 250 students are taught by a dedicated team of 50 teachers and assistants, fostering the Lithuanian language, culture, and identity.
The school plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of Lithuanian education abroad by developing language teaching assessment systems, organizing teacher training programs, and offering administrative support to other Lithuanian schools in Ireland.
Through active collaboration with other Lithuanian organizations, the 4 Winds School builds a lasting bridge between generations and strengthens the diaspora’s connection to Lithuania.
For Lithuanian Innovations Leading Globally
Prof. Vladas Algirdas Bumelis
CEO and Chairman of Northway Biotech | Lithuania
For positioning Lithuania as a global leader in biotechnology and gene therapy
Professor Vladas A. Bumelis, the founder and long-time leader of Northway Biotech, has significantly contributed to the growth of Lithuania’s life sciences sector and its recognition on the global stage.
For over 20 years, he has led Northway Biotech, which under his guidance established a biotechnology company in Boston, USA, with an investment of €25 million. The company continues to expand and is pioneering the creation of BioCity, the first biotechnology campus in the Baltic States. This campus includes a state-of-the-art gene therapy center, with planned investments of €7 billion over the next decade. The gene therapy center, inaugurated this autumn, strengthens Lithuania’s position in the global life sciences market. Professor Bumelis stands as an inspiring leader in innovation and business development.
Petras Narbutas
Owner and President of Narbutas Group | Lithuania
For establishing Lithuania as a leader in the global modern furniture industry
Petras Narbutas and his team possess extensive expertise in creating modern furniture that has won prestigious international awards for design and innovation. The company has a strong presence in major global markets, with showrooms in cities such as New York, London, and Paris.
Narbutas Group’s international branches not only showcase high-quality products and innovative solutions but also act as representatives of Lithuania. Petras Narbutas’ visionary leadership and boldness in entering new markets have elevated Lithuania’s visibility on the international stage, positioning the country as a leader in innovation and quality within the furniture industry.
Dr. Monika Paulė
CEO and co-founder of Caszyme, Vice President of LithuaniaBIO | Lithuania
For globally acclaimed innovations in biotechnology
Under the leadership of Dr. Monika Paulė, Caszyme provides advanced gene-editing solutions in fields such as personalized medicine, agriculture, diagnostics, scientific research, and industrial biotechnology.
The company collaborates with international partners and top scientists from countries like South Korea and the United States, participating in global projects and applying the groundbreaking gene-editing technology discovered by Professor Virginijus Šikšnys.
Dr. Paulė and the Caszyme team are dedicated to creating highly tailored solutions to meet specific client needs. Their work enhances Lithuania’s international reputation as a leader in biotechnology and innovation.
For Empowering Ties with Lithuanian Regions
Sondra Litvaitytė
Public diplomacy expert, Global Šiauliai Ambassador | United States of America
For strengthening the connections between the Šiauliai region and the international community
Sondra Litvaitytė is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience working in Lithuanian diplomatic missions in Rome and New York. She currently serves as the Global Šiauliai Ambassador in the United States and is the founder of Šiauliai Club USA, a community that unites Šiauliai natives in the U.S. and reinforces their ties to Lithuania and their hometown.
Sondra actively promotes Lithuanian culture and heritage through initiatives such as Open the Window: Šiauliai–New York, a series of events introducing Šiauliai's identity and creative talents to American audiences. She also organized an event at the New York Public Library that highlighted Victor David Brenner, a Šiauliai-born designer of the U.S. one-cent coin and the library’s coat of arms. This event not only revealed important Lithuanian connections to the library but also shared Šiauliai's history with an international audience.
Through her initiatives, Sondra has significantly strengthened the Šiauliai region's global identity and its ties to the international community.
Agnė Petrošiūtė
Sustainable development expert | Netherlands, Lithuania
For leading efforts to promote sustainable development in Tauragė and implementing climate neutrality goals
Agnė Petrošiūtė is an accomplished sustainable development expert with international experience and a Master’s degree in Leadership for Sustainable Development from Malmö University. After completing her studies in the Netherlands and Sweden, Agnė returned to Lithuania, joining the Create for Lithuania program before becoming the Sustainable Development Advisor for the Tauragė District Municipality.
Her global expertise was instrumental in Tauragė's selection for the European Commission’s 100 Climate Neutral and Innovative Cities mission. This achievement has driven transformative initiatives in the region, with Agnė spearheading efforts to incorporate climate neutrality and sustainable development goals across all aspects of the city's growth.
Under her leadership, Tauragė and Lithuania have gained international recognition as they work toward becoming climate-neutral by 2030.
Algirdas Pukis and Vytautas Pukis
Founders and organizers of the Kaunas International Marathon | United States of America, Lithuania
For creating the Kaunas International Marathon and fostering the running community
Brothers Vytautas and Algirdas Pukis founded the Kaunas International Marathon, which for over 13 years has brought participants from 40 countries to Kaunas, raising the city’s profile as an international sports hub.
The idea for the marathon emerged during Vytautas' time in the U.S., where his participation in events like the Las Vegas Half Marathon inspired a vision to organize a similar event in their hometown. In the first five years, the brothers invested approximately €100,000 of their own funds to develop the event.
Today, all profits from the marathon are reinvested in promoting sports, supporting training camps, and expanding the running community. With over 5,000 participants and spectators annually, the Kaunas International Marathon has introduced a global sports culture to the city, blending passion for running with best practices from around the world.
Lina Stulpinaitė Benetė
International education expert | United States of America, Lithuania
For introducing an international emotional intelligence program to children in Lithuania's regions
Lina Stulpinaitė Benetė is a highly experienced professional in international education, with over 20 years of work at esteemed organizations such as UNESCO and the World Bank. After living abroad for 26 years, Lina returned to Lithuania and partnered with Think Equal, a global initiative implemented in over 30 countries.
She launched a pilot program in the municipalities of Alytus, Anykščiai, Lazdijai, and Varėna districts, as well as Alytus city, focusing on teaching preschool children critical skills such as respect, self-esteem, critical thinking, and environmental responsibility. The program aims to enhance mental health, equal rights, and long-term career opportunities.
Currently, Lina collaborates with the Kazickas Foundation and other municipalities to expand this initiative further. Her international experience, leadership, and dedication have made a profound impact on education for children in Lithuania's regions.
Eglė Tamulytė
Artist, founder of the Art Studio "School of Life" | France, Lithuania
For promoting informal youth education and community building through art in the Šakiai district
Eglė Tamulytė is an artist who returned to her hometown of Griškabūdis after years in Europe and North America to inspire change in her community. She transformed an abandoned building into the School of Life, an open space and art studio for young people.
The studio promotes collaboration between professional artists and local youth, particularly focusing on children in the Šakiai district. The initiative gained international attention when Eglė presented it at global events such as the European Leadership Forum.
By integrating art with community building and entrepreneurship, Eglė has enhanced informal youth education in Lithuania's regions. Her efforts provide underprivileged youth with opportunities to engage in creative activities and realize their potential.
For International Scientific Achievements
Prof. Eugenijus Kaniušas
Professor, Technical University of Vienna, Scientist | Austria
For significant scientific achievements and contributions to Lithuania in the field of biomedicine
Prof. Kaniušas, Dean of Biomedical Studies at the Technical University of Vienna, leads the Biomedical Sensors Working Group and serves as Vice President of the Austrian-Lithuanian Society.
He collaborates extensively with Lithuanian research institutions on groundbreaking biomedical projects, pioneering methods to reduce chronic pain and depression and advancing the application of electromagnetic fields in diagnostics and therapy.
With more than 240 scientific publications, Prof. Kaniušas plays a key role in fostering Austria-Lithuania collaboration. In 2024, he was honored with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Honorary Award, For Services to Lithuania.
Prof. Inga Minelgaitė
Professor at the University of Iceland, researcher, and business consultant | Iceland
For outstanding leadership in academia in Iceland
Inga Minelgaitė, a professor at the University of Iceland and Lithuania’s Honorary Consul in Iceland, is also a seasoned business consultant and researcher.
With over 15 years of leadership experience, she collaborates with top business schools globally and focuses her research on cross-cultural leadership. Recognized as a leading scholar in leadership, project, and business management on Academia.edu, she co-authored Iceland’s first book on organizational leadership, Demystifying Leadership in Iceland.
Beyond her academic contributions, Inga shares her expertise at conferences and seminars, engaging actively with NGOs and professional diaspora initiatives.
Prof. Arthur Jonas Ragauskas
Professor of Chemistry, University of Tennessee | United States of America
For outstanding scientific research and its transformative impact on Lithuania and the global community
Prof. A. J. Ragauskas is a distinguished leader in biorefining science and engineering, committed to converting natural resources and waste into sustainable solutions. With over 72,000 citations and nearly 700 scientific publications, he is a highly esteemed figure in the global scientific arena.
Prof. Ragauskas is deeply invested in educating young scientists and fostering international collaborations to drive innovative technological breakthroughs. He is a frequent visitor to Kaunas University of Technology, where he shares insights with the Lithuanian Confederation of Industrialists, the Seimas Environmental Protection Committee, and other key institutions. Through his efforts, he creates unique opportunities for students, researchers, and businesses in the US, Europe, and Lithuania.
For Creating International Business Relations
Audrius Borisa
Entrepreneur, business advisor, mentor | Lithuania, Ukraine
For decades of volunteer dedication to developing Lithuanian businesses and opening new markets
Audrius Borisa, a trade expert with over 20 years of leadership experience in retail, consulting, and fast-moving consumer goods, has worked across more than 10 countries.
In Lithuania, he volunteers as a business mentor, sharing his extensive knowledge to prepare companies for international markets. In collaboration with Global Lithuanian Leaders, he has supported the global expansion of over ten businesses in recent years.
His proficiency in languages, strategic leadership, and market insight enable him to forge strong partnerships and drive successful project execution.
Natalja Daubarė
President of Narbutas USA | United States of America, Lithuania
For building and strengthening Lithuanian-American business relations
Natalja Daubarė, President of Narbutas USA, has played a pivotal role in introducing the Lithuanian company to the US market in 2018 and driving its continued growth in the competitive North American region.
She actively collaborates with diplomats, commercial attachés, and embassies to guide Lithuanian companies exploring opportunities in the US market.
In partnership with Global Lithuanian Leaders, she has provided pro bono consulting for Lithuanian businesses and frequently delivers presentations at events like the North America-Lithuania Business Forum. Her efforts hav
Apolinaras Sinkevičius
Entrepreneur, investor | United States of America
For cultivating business relations, advancing Lithuania’s startup ecosystem, and attracting investment
Apolinaras Sinkevičius is a seasoned entrepreneur instrumental in establishing seven US startups valued at nearly $500 million.
Leveraging his expertise, he has become a driving force in Lithuania’s startup ecosystem. He devotes considerable time to mentoring and advising Lithuanian entrepreneurs, encouraging business expansion and attracting investment.
By fostering US-Lithuania partnerships, he brings American investors and entrepreneurs to Lithuania and engages with the Lithuanian Business Angel Network. Recognized as an ecosystem hero, he is celebrated for his dedication to mentoring, knowledge sharing, and creating valuable business connections.
For Promoting Lithuania Globally
Dalia Ibelhauptaitė
Theater and opera director, film producer | United Kingdom, United States of America, Lithuania
For promoting Lithuania, from global opera stages to Hollywood
Dalia Ibelhauptaitė is a groundbreaking director and creator who has revolutionized opera in Lithuania. She has directed dozens of classic plays and operas in countries including the United Kingdom, Italy, the United States, and Lithuania.
Dalia is the visionary behind Bohemiečiai (also known as Vilnius City Opera), a phenomenon that has become a global symbol of Lithuanian cultural excellence. Her initiative to unite top-tier talents from the Lithuanian diaspora has propelled these artists to international acclaim on prestigious stages worldwide.
Recently, her creative endeavors have expanded to Hollywood, where she produces films and contributes to major international cinema projects. Dalia’s dynamic energy bridges opera, theater, and film, enhancing Lithuania’s cultural influence on the global stage.
Mūza Rubackytė
Pianist, music educator, cultural advocate | France, Switzerland, Lithuania
For being an ambassador of Lithuanian classical culture worldwide
Mūza Rubackytė is one of Lithuania’s most celebrated pianists, renowned for her performances with leading symphony orchestras and her exceptional solo concerts in prestigious venues around the world. She is especially acclaimed for her interpretations of Liszt’s works, which have garnered numerous international awards.
Beyond her concert career, Mūza teaches at universities and conservatories and co-founded the Vilnius Piano Festival, a prestigious event that attracts world-class pianists. In 2023, a documentary titled Mūza was released, offering an intimate glimpse into her journey as an artist and a free-spirited individual.
Mūza is a passionate ambassador of Lithuanian culture and classical music, showcasing the country’s artistic brilliance to global audiences.
Nicole Zuraitis
Jazz musician and pianist | United States of America
For promoting Lithuania’s name in the global music industry
Nicole Zuraitis, an American jazz vocalist, pianist, songwriter, and arranger with Lithuanian roots, is a Grammy Award winner for Best Jazz Vocal Album with How Love Begins. She has visited Lithuania multiple times, performing with local musicians at jazz festivals and other events.
A regular at New York’s premier jazz clubs, Nicole is the vocalist for the renowned Birdland Big Band. She also mentors young jazz artists, leading workshops and seminars. Her versatility shines across jazz, pop, and classical music stages. Actively engaged in Lithuanian-American community activities, Nicole proudly elevates Lithuania’s name in the international music scene.