GLL Summit 2024: A Gathering of Global Minds
This year’s GLL Summit in Barcelona marked my fourth time attending, following equally unforgettable experiences in Berlin (2021), Oslo (2022), and Riga (2023). Each of these events has offered unique settings and insights, yet the Barcelona summit was especially thrilling. Hosted by Lithuanian Professionals in Spain and Global Lithuanian Leaders, this three-day gathering of Lithuanian professionals from around the world was an incredibly enriching experience and a reminder of the impact our diaspora community holds.
The energy was contagious as we gathered to share experiences, exchange knowledge, and learn best practices from one another. Professionals from Europe, Asia, and North America – representing Lithuanian professional clubs – came together with a shared goal: to build a stronger global network. Our connections felt deeply authentic, unified by the pride we have in our cultural roots, regardless of the diverse fields we each work in. Every conversation was a reminder of our shared cultural heritage and how it continues to shape our unique paths.
One of the most powerful aspects of this summit was how it reinforced the importance of the diaspora in contributing to Lithuania and beyond. Together, we explored our roles not only as professionals but as representatives of our culture in a globalized world. The diaspora is more than a network; it’s a bridge, connecting Lithuania to the wider world while fostering creativity, resilience, and a deep-seated sense of community wherever we go. Seeing the dedication of those who’ve sustained professional clubs over the years, alongside the enthusiasm of those just starting out, reminded me of the strength in diversity within our community and the collective impact we can create.
Leaving Barcelona, I felt a renewed sense of gratitude for the connections I’ve made within this inspiring global Lithuanian community. There’s a special magic that only in-person gatherings bring – the kind of connection that runs deeper than the professional or the formal. It’s in the shared stories, the laughter, and the larger sense of purpose that binds us. From our coffee breaks to evening wine tastings, these moments weren’t just social – they were celebrations of our culture, shared goals, and the promise of future collaborations.
In every summit I’ve attended, I am reminded of the importance of community and how vital it is to keep these connections alive and thriving. These summits go far beyond business insights or networking; they ground us in our shared heritage while giving us a platform to create positive change. As I return from Barcelona, I feel inspired and ready to bring these new ideas into my work, strengthened by the support and knowledge that comes from being part of this incredible global Lithuanian family.
