When I arrived in Lithuania as part of the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program, I felt a mixture of excitement, curiosity, and a little trepidation. It was my first professional experience abroad, so every new place, every smile, and every conversation evoked a wealth of emotions within me. I’m a cosmetologist and the owner of Elen Esthetic in Gdańsk, Poland. For me, running a business isn’t just about providing services and making money, but above all, creating unique experiences for people and constantly developing myself.
I decided to participate in the program because I wanted to see how business is done in another country, meet new people, and gain a fresh perspective on my own venture. Lithuania seemed like the perfect choice—it combines tradition with a modern approach to entrepreneurship, and the local community is very open and supportive.
My host entrepreneur, Žaneta, welcomed me warmly. On my first day, she showed me around her office, showed me documents, tools, and educational materials, and introduced me to the “Entrepreneurship in Lithuania” course. The first few weeks were a true immersion: we learned about various forms of running a business, analyzed legal aspects, calculated taxes, and discussed the principles of running a social and “green” business. It was fascinating to observe how local entrepreneurs combine business with social responsibility and sustainable development.
Every day brought new experiences and small discoveries. While completing practical tasks and surveys, I often wondered how I could apply these solutions to my own business. I especially enjoyed the moments when I could see the tools and calculators for tax calculations in action, as well as creating elements of a business plan. It was like a small entrepreneurial laboratory, where I learned both the technical aspects and a creative approach to business development.
After three weeks, I feel that this exchange has truly changed me. It broadened my horizons, provided me with new ideas, and motivated me to act. Every conversation, every small success, and every challenge reminds me of the importance of continuous learning and openness to new experiences. I am convinced that after returning to Poland, I will look at my business differently – as part of something bigger, where I can connect people, ideas and values, inspiring others and myself.