From 13 to 16 October 2026, the eighth transnational partner meeting of the Village Verve – “Women at the Forefront of Climate and Development” project was held in Miercurea Ciuc and several locations across Harghita County. The WP8 event, entitled “Celebrating Women’s Impact – Recognizing Success in Climate Action,” focused on recognizing the achievements of women actively engaged in climate action, exchanging experiences, and showcasing initiatives that support the sustainable development of rural communities.

The international meeting brought together project partners from eight countries – Spain, Cyprus, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Portugal, Romania and Slovenia – to exchange experiences and present their achievements and good practices in climate action and sustainable rural development. As part of the “Climate Impact Insights” knowledge-sharing forum, participants presented their project activities and climate action initiatives, as well as the role of women in local communities, jointly exploring solutions that support sustainable development.

The good practices presented included discussions on the impacts of climate change in Harghita County and sustainable business initiatives connecting local producers. Ildikó Molnár, owner of Doboz Shop, presented the Doboz initiative, which focuses on cooperation among local producers and sustainable operations. The programme also featured the Food Savers project, which highlights the importance of preventing food waste and encourages more conscious resource use.

During field visits, participants explored the natural heritage of Lake Saint Ana and the Mohos Peat Bog, learning about the management of the protected area, biodiversity conservation and opportunities for sustainable tourism. Further study visits showcased women’s entrepreneurship and product development based on local ingredients through the example of RibON, while a visit to Zsigmond Malom Inn highlighted the preservation of cultural heritage, the development of family businesses and the importance of community building.

One of the key events of the project meeting was the Village Verve – Climate Heroines Gala, during which the partners recognized the contributions of inspiring women nominated by the partner countries for their outstanding work in climate action within rural communities. The gala also featured a presentation of the Earth Mentor programme, delivered to participants by Melinda Dobos, County Manager. The presentation provided an opportunity to share sustainability-related initiatives and experiences, in line with the event’s environmental protection and community development objectives.

As part of the gala, the Climate Heroine Awards were also presented, recognizing the work of women role models from eight countries. Cyprus was represented by Anna Christodoulou, Latvia by Aija Dundure, Slovenia by Nataša Majcen, Italy by Mila Bukovcic, Lithuania by Kristina Šiožienė, Portugal by Vera Lima, Spain by Gloria Molina Calvo, and Romania by Szilvia Bencze. The honorees were recognized for their exemplary work in rural communities and their contributions to climate action, sustainable development, and the empowerment of local communities.

The two-day meeting provided representatives from the partner countries with an opportunity to exchange experiences, learn about good practices, and strengthen international cooperation. The programme brought together nature conservation, the sustainability of local economies, and women’s engagement in community life, contributing to the shared objectives of the Village Verve project.

About the Village Verve project

The Village Verve – “Women at the Forefront of Climate and Development” project highlights the role of women living in rural areas in climate action and community development. Through an international partnership, the project promotes the exchange of experiences, the sharing of local good practices, and the recognition of women’s climate action initiatives.

The event was organized with the support of Harghita County Council. The project is funded by the European Union under the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) Programme.

Miercurea Ciuc, 20th of October 2026