Irina joins Civic Leaders at SI Leader Lab 2025 in Stockholm

Irina Janevska, the founder and driving force behind ARNO, represented North Macedonia at the prestigious SI Leader Lab 2025, one of the top leadership programs for civil society professionals, hosted by the Swedish Institute in Stockholm.

This year’s edition of the program brought together over 100 changemakers from 13 countries across Eastern Europe, the Western Balkans, and Türkiye. With a strong focus on the themes “Lead Collaboration” and “Drive Change,” SI Leader Lab equips participants with the tools to build smarter advocacy campaigns, rethink leadership, and develop impactful, cross-border solutions to today’s pressing social issues.

In early May, the selected leaders gathered in Stockholm for a week of intensive workshops, leadership coaching, and peer learning. The experience combined early-morning reflection sessions with late-night strategic conversations over fika, creating a vibrant and purpose-driven atmosphere. Participants explored feedback frameworks, including neuroscience-based models, and designed real-world campaigns while forming lasting international partnerships.

Irina Janevska, recognized for her leadership in green economy, social entrepreneurship, and civic innovation through ARNO, was one of the few representatives from North Macedonia to be selected.

“I’m truly thankful to be part of this program — which, by the way, isn’t over yet!” says Irina. “From the online phase, the SCARF Model really stood out — it helped me reflect on team dynamics and leadership style. SCARF is a brain-based framework that helps us collaborate more effectively by understanding how people respond to threats and rewards. The whole program has been an incredible learning journey, supporting both my personal growth and our strategic thinking for the Repair Center. And yes — Stockholm was unforgettable. Meeting my peers in real life was so energizing. Being surrounded by such intelligent and passionate people felt amazing. We engaged in ‘take a stand’ exercises, ideation sessions, iceberg models, campaign mapping, leadership discussions, and deep reflections. I also loved the Technology Museum — it was full of green ideas we’ll definitely bring into ARNO’s work. A snow surfboard made from paper, outsoles of shoes made from forest-based rubber — so many inspiring innovations aligned with our mission. This program made me feel seen and valued for the work we do in the third sector

The SI Leader Lab continues with online sessions and will culminate in the Impact Lab in the fall, where participants will apply their skills through hands-on, real-world leadership challenges.

ARNO celebrates this recognition and encourages others working in civil society to explore similar opportunities that celebrate civic engagement, foster global networks, and support innovative leadership.