ltoffice@kff.lt, Author at Kazickas Family Foundation

Bring Together Lithuania 2026 Invites Lithuanian Diaspora Youth to Apply

The Kazickas Family Foundation is pleased to announce the start of the application period for Bring Together Lithuania 2026.

Since 2018, this six-week summer internship program offers students and recent graduates of Lithuanian descent (ages 18–32) a unique opportunity to gain hands-on professional experience, connect with fellow young professionals from the Lithuanian diaspora, and engage with Lithuania’s cultural, civic, and business landscape.

Participants will be placed in leading Lithuanian companies, startups, NGOs, and public institutions, while also taking part in a curated program of educational and cultural activities designed to deepen their understanding of modern Lithuania and their heritage.

Since its launch, the program has welcomed participants from across the globe, including the United States, Canada, Argentina, Brasil, Uruguay, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, South Korea, and others. Alumni represent a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds—from public health and neuroscience to architecture, engineering, and international relations, cybersecurity and more.

Program dates: June 6 to July 19, 2026

To learn more and apply, visit: www.bringtogether.lt
• Early Bird Application Deadline: November 15, 2025
• Final Application Deadline: January 5, 2026

The program is initiated and sponsored by the KFF, sponsored by Lithuanian Foundation, Ministry of Economy and Innovation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Congratulations to 2025 KFF STEM Scholarship Recipients

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Congratulations to KFF STEM Scholarship Recipients

The Kazickas Family Foundation is proud to announce seven recipients of this year’s STEM Scholarship – a program supporting talented Lithuanian students in pursuing advanced studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) at some of the world’s leading universities.

The selected students have demonstrated strong academic achievements, dedication to their chosen fields of study, and a firm commitment to applying their knowledge and experience for the benefit of Lithuania. They are either already enrolled in or about to begin studies at some of the world’s most prestigious universities, where they will have the opportunity to collaborate with leading scientists and contribute to meaningful research.

Here are the scholarship recipients’ reflections on their chosen academic paths:

Justas Miliauskas, University of Cambridge, UK – Bachelor in Natural Sciences (Biological) – “I chose the Natural Sciences program because of the broad and versatile knowledge base it provides, enabling effective work in the pharmaceutical industry and involvement in the development and improvement of medicines.”
Migle Sarpilo, University of Copenhagen, Denmark – Master of Science in Biotechnology – “I chose a discipline that would provide the broadest range of opportunities in light of current scientific trends — so, biochemistry or Biotechnology. This scholarship is the reason I was able to pursue the career path I wanted, and for a young and ambitious woman, that means everything.”
Barbora Bucinskaite, University of Cambridge, UK – Master of Philosophy in Stem Cell Medicine – “I am fascinated by the potential applications of stem cells in modern medicine. I am excited to see the rapidly growing biotechnology sector in Lithuania, and I hope to contribute to its future expansion into cell, tissue, and organ engineering fields.”
Jurgis Kemeklis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA – Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with Computer Science – “I have been passionate about mathematics and programming since childhood. By studying, collaborating with peers and professors, and gaining experience through research and internships, I hope to acquire the skills and perspective that will be useful back home.”

Pijus Tamosiunas, University of Oxford, UK – Master in Chemistry – “Since I wanted to deepen my knowledge in chemistry, I applied to the University of Oxford. I am fascinated with the possible chemical applications to modern fertilisers. Currently, plants do not absorb a big portion of the mineral fertilisers used in farms. If a solution to make fertilisers more efficient is found, it would have a major positive impact for both the economy and farmers of Lithuania.
Kipras Deksnys, University of Cambridge, UK – Bachelor in Engineering – “My choice to study engineering was inspired by curiosity and a desire to understand how the world works. I was interested in physics, mathematics and programming, and participated in olympiads. These experiences helped me gain the knowledge that I demonstrated when applying to university.”
Rugilė Urte Ulianskaite, University of Warwick, UK – Master of Science in Mathematical Finance – “I chose the University of Warwick not only because it ranks among the top three STEM institutions in the UK and offers a programme taught by three of the best departments, but also because its green campus and surrounding woods reminded me of home. In the future I see an opportunity to contribute to Lithuania’s development, particularly in the field of quantitative finance and the broader STEM community.”

The scholarships of the program initiated by KFF President Jūratė Kazickaitė are awarded in the hope that the recipients’ experiences at international universities will strengthen Lithuania’s STEM community and encourage other students to boldly pursue world-class science and studies.

We wish the scholarship recipients every success in their academic journey – may this experience be a step toward discoveries that enrich not only themselves, but also Lithuania.

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Meeting with Lithuanian National Foundation and KFF internship program interns

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Meeting with Lithuanian National Foundation and KFF internship program interns

Tautos Fondas and the Kazickas Family Foundation continue their mission of connecting young World Lithuanians with meaningful experiences in Lithuania.

Through the Tautos Fondas internship program, young Lithuanians from around the world—studying both abroad and in Lithuania—are invited to take part in 4–8 week internships at inspiring NGOs in Lithuania and receive a scholarship.

This summer, young World Lithuanians interning in Lithuania through the Tautos Fondas and Kazickas Family Foundation program gathered at the Kazickas Family residence.

The meeting was a wonderful opportunity to get to know each other, share first impressions from their internships at Lithuanian NGOs, including Bring Together Lithuania, Innovation Valley, Global Lithuanian Leaders, Lithuanian Culture Institute, Youth Affairs Agency, Center for Equality Advancement, Transparency International, Inconvenient Films, Lithuanian Centre for Human Rights, and LiJOT.

Interns shared their thoughts about motivation to contribute to Lithuania’s future, ideas for strengthening the program’s communication, and the importance of building a supportive community of interns and alumni.

Tautos Fondas is a Lithuanian diaspora charitable organization dedicated to fostering democratic development in Lithuania, preserving Lithuanian cultural identity and supporting youth education, and nurturing national identity.

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Visit to “Viltis” Camp

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Visit to "Viltis" Camp

The Kazickas Family Foundation and Uncommon.lt teams visited the 36th Independent Living Skills Camp in Klaipėda, organized by the Lithuanian Welfare Society for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities “Viltis”.

This year, the camp welcomed over 250 participants – people with intellectual disabilities, their family members, and volunteers.

The camp offers families an opportunity to change their environment, strengthen their bonds, provide meaningful activities for people with intellectual disabilities, develop social and communication skills, encourage inclusion in society, and most importantly, build a community where everyone is welcome.

Thanks to the support of volunteers, camp activities are inclusive for all people with various intellectual disabilities, their parents, caregivers, brothers, and sisters. Together, they learn, connect, strengthen relationships, and take a break from their daily routines.

The KFF team had the opportunity to visit the “Pasaka” campsite, see the activities in action, and explore the camp’s fair, where we purchased products made during the workshops.

We are sincerely grateful to “Viltis” for the long-standing partnership and the opportunity to contribute to this meaningful initiative.

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The Closing Ceremony of Bring Together Lithuania 2025

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The Closing Ceremony of Bring Together Lithuania 2025

This week at the Kazickas Family residence in Vilnius, we celebrated the Bring Together Lithuania 2025 closing event – a meaningful occasion marking the culmination of a six-week program initiated and supported by the Kazickas Family Foundation, organized by Bring Together LT organization.

The Closing Ceremony of Bring Together Lithuania 2025 – summer internship program for Lithuanian diaspora youth

This year, the program brought together 34 young members of the Lithuanian diaspora from the United States, Canada, Argentina, Uruguay, Bermuda, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and various European countries.

One of the Kazickas Family Foundation’s core priorities is fostering strong connections within the global Lithuanian diaspora. Through Bring Together Lithuania, we create opportunities for young people to explore their roots, discover modern Lithuania, connect with its people, and engage in meaningful shared initiatives.

Since its launch in 2018, the program has provided participants with professional experience in leading Lithuanian companies and organizations, meetings with prominent figures from politics, business, and culture, and the chance to contribute to impactful projects. After successful completion, participants become Young Lithuanian Ambassadors, helping to strengthen the bond between the diaspora and Lithuania.

During the closing event, Program Director Kamilė Perminė and Kazickas Family Foundation Vilnius Office Director Domantė Howes presented participants with program certificates, Young Lithuanian Ambassador pins, and letters of appreciation to the program’s key partners.

We sincerely thank all participants, partners, and like-minded supporters who contribute to this mission and continue to inspire the next generation of Lithuanians around the world.

The program is also supported by the Lithuanian Foundation, the Ministry of Economy and Innovation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Kazickas Family Foundation 2025 Grant Overview

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Kazickas Family Foundation 2025 Grant Overview

In 2025, the Kazickas Family Foundation received over 70 grant requests from NGOs in Lithuania, the US, and the world.

A total of more than €700,000 was distributed to 62 organizations in Lithuania and the United States. Approximately half of the supported organizations were long-term partners, and the other half were first-time applicants in 2025.

Please note that we are no longer accepting grant applications for 2025.

The next opportunity to apply for funding will begin on November 1, 2025. Applications submitted at that time will be reviewed in January 2026.

Funding decisions are based on:

Alignment with priority areas: education, youth empowerment, social welfare, arts and culture, diaspora engagement, crisis response, and medicine
Information provided in the application or inquiry
Project budget and support from other sources

Since its founding, the Foundation has provided more than €17.5 million in total charitable support.

Details on grant eligibility and the application process: https://kazickasfamilyfoundation.lt/apply-for-grants/

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Youth Can Summer Camps in Pumpenai

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Youth Can Summer Camps in Pumpenai

This summer, Youth Can program, supported by the Kazickas Family Foundation, is organizing two summer camps in Pumpėnai. These camps offer young people a space to grow, learn, and thrive within a strong sense of community.

The first camp took place from June 29 to July 6, bringing together 40 young people from towns and villages across Lithuania. Focused on entrepreneurship, the camp introduced participants to the basics of teamwork, value creation, and customer engagement. They put their knowledge into practice by creating and presenting their own products at the Pumpėnai Festival.

The second camp begins next week, welcoming 32 participants for seven active days focused on building life skills through sports and team-based activities. Youth Can camp will emphasize physical activity, reflection, and games that help strengthen self-confidence, communication skills, and emotional awareness.

The goal of Youth Can program is to create a safe, supportive, and positive environment where every young person can grow, discover their potential, and believe in their future.

These camps would not be possible without the generous support of donors and partners.

Thank you for helping to provide unforgettable summer experiences for youth!

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Neila Baumilienė Awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order for Merits to Lithuania

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Neila Baumilienė Awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order for Merits to Lithuania

Congratulations to Neila Baumilėnė – awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order for Merits to Lithuania!

On July 6th – the Day of the Statehood (Coronation of King Mindaugas) and the National Anthem Day – the President of the Republic of Lithuania, Gitanas Nausėda, honored 71 individuals with state awards for their contributions to strengthening Lithuania and promoting its name in the world.

Among them was Neila Baumilienė, Executive Director of the Kazickas Family Foundation in New York, who received the Knight’s Cross of the Order for Merits to Lithuania for:

Initiatives supporting Ukraine (in Lithuania, the U.S., Ukraine, and beyond),
Promotion of Lithuanian heritage and education abroad,
Strengthening ties between the global Lithuanian diaspora and Lithuania.

This award is a meaningful recognition of Neila’s dedication and sincere work, which inspires not only the KFF community but also Lithuanians around the world who care deeply about Lithuania, the ideals of freedom and independence, and the preservation of national identity.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Neila Baumilienė on this well-deserved national recognition. Congratulations!

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Th 11th North American Lithuanian Song Festival 2025

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The 11th North American Lithuanian Song Festival

From June 27 to 29, the 11th North American Lithuanian Song Festival, “One Family – One Nation,” took place in Cleveland, Ohio — the first festival of its kind after a decade-long break. The event brought together 1,500 Lithuanian singers from the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world, who performed in harmony. They were joined by 100 dancers and 2,000 attendees from the global Lithuanian community.

The Kazickas Family Foundation places great value on the Lithuanian diaspora, cultural heritage, and the preservation of Lithuanian traditions. For many years, the Foundation has supported North American Lithuanian Song and Dance Festivals. KFF Vilnius office director Domantė Howes attended this year’s celebration.

The first such festival outside Lithuania was held in Chicago in 1956, continuing a cherished interwar tradition and encouraging the Lithuanian community abroad to support the country’s fight for independence.

The Song Festival is recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity and is included in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Sincere thanks to the organizers, sponsors, and all Lithuanians around the world who helped bring this celebration to life!

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VMU Students Awarded the Dr. V. and S. Čepukėnas Scholarship for Promoting Francophone Culture

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VMU Students Awarded the Dr. V. and S. Čepukėnas Scholarship for Promoting Francophone Culture

On June 23rd, the Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas Named Scholarships were awarded for the third time at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU). This scholarship is granted to students for their outstanding contribution to the promotion and dissemination of the French language and Francophone culture in society.

The Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas Named Scholarship at VMU was established on the initiative of alumna Neila Baumilienė, Executive Director of the Kazickas Family Foundation (New York branch), with support from the foundation itself. Financial support is also provided by the Čepukėnas daughters, Rasa and Milda. The scholarship was created to honor the Čepukėnas family’s legacy and contribution.

This year, the scholarship was awarded to five recipients: Raimonda Mc Geever, a graduate of the Faculty of Humanities in Foreign Languages and Cultures: Francophone Studies; Karolina Žilytė, a master’s student in Diplomacy and International Relations at the Faculty of Political Science and Diplomacy; Raminta Dimšaitė, a bachelor’s student in Italian Studies and Romance Languages at the Faculty of Humanities; and Daria Livshyts and Aliya Zhumabayeva, bachelor’s students in Business Administration at the Faculty of Economics and Management.

The scholarships were presented during the Faculty of Humanities’ graduation ceremony. They were awarded by the initiators and patrons of the scholarship: Neila Baumilienė, Executive Director of the Kazickas Family Foundation’s New York branch, and the Čepukėnas’ daughters, Milda Krivickienė and Rasa Čepukėnaitė, along with Almantė Meškauskienė, Deputy Director of the VMU Institute of Foreign Languages.

Before the official award ceremony, the recipients met with the scholarship founders for an informal gathering and conversation. The students and graduate shared personal stories about how they first encountered the French language, what inspired them to study it, and how they plan to use the scholarship support for meaningful development. Neila Baumilienė, the scholarship initiator and VMU alumna, also shared how, as a student, she came to know both Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas, and how the idea for the scholarship was born.

About Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas

Dr. Vaclovas and Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnas were long-standing lecturers at Vytautas Magnus University and devoted patriots of Lithuania. Throughout their professional lives, they actively participated in civic life, engaged in philanthropic work, and provided support to those with limited access to education.

Dr. Vaclovas Čepukėnas was a Doctor of Psychology, a French language lecturer in both school and university settings, and an active participant in Lithuania’s armed resistance. During World War II, he served as a volunteer fighter with the Homeland Defense Group. For his civic contributions, he was awarded the Medal of the Founders of the Lithuanian Armed Forces.

Dr. Stefanija Čepukėnienė held a doctorate in the humanities, was a professor of French at VMU, and was among the university’s early and most devoted educators after its re-establishment.

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