10 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE NOVATORE CLUB DAY

On 6 November, the Novatore Club gathered at SEB’s impressive new office. The atmosphere felt like a conversation among peers who combine ambition, expertise, and genuine commitment to support each other. Throughout the afternoon, discussions were insightful, practical, and energising, leaving a strong sense of momentum in the room. Discover the 10 insights that stood out and may inspire your own leadership journey.

1. Be where the business is

Ieva Tetere, CEO of SEB Latvia, opened the event by reflecting on the bank’s recent relocation to the centre of Riga. The move underscores the value of proximity – to clients, to teams, and to emerging opportunities. Strong connections begin with showing up where growth is happening.

2. The power of sisterhood

Baiba Rubesa, Novatore Co-founder, highlighted the core purpose of the Club: women become stronger when they collaborate. Sharing experience, supporting one another’s growth, and fostering openness transform sisterhood into a genuine strategic advantage.

3. Discover your genius – then sharpen it

Inga Ezera, Country Manager at Pedersen & Partners and Novatore Leadership Facilitator, delivered a powerful session on authentic leadership. Quoting Einstein – “Everyone is born a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” – she reminded participants that brilliance comes in many forms. Whether you’re a creator, mechanic, deal maker, or accumulator, the key is recognising your innate strengths and investing in the skills that make you unique.

4. Holistic leadership is the future

A standout idea of the day was holistic leadership. Great leaders bring not only intellect and skill, but also empathy, character, and strong personal values. When all these elements are aligned, leaders create results that matter for both people and organisations.

5. Don’t postpone your life

Elza Priede, CEO of Novatore, encouraged attendees to prioritise what matters today. Waiting for the perfect moment often means delaying fulfillment. Small, intentional choices can enrich daily life and move you closer to what you truly want.

6. Latvia’s defence industry is accelerating

Dagnija Lejiņa, Novatore Co-founder and Strategic Advisor to the Minister of Defence, outlined how rapidly Latvia’s defence sector is evolving. Decisions are being made quickly, innovation is welcomed, and progress is driven by collective determination.

7. Compulsory service opens new doors

Beāte Krauze-Čebotare, CEO of Ammunity, spoke about the opportunities within Latvia’s national service. For those curious about defence, mandatory service offers valuable insight and access to a sector that is growing and eager for new talent.

8. Dedication beats background

Marta Elste, CEO of Beyron, shared her journey from marketing to defence technology. Her message was clear: passion, resilience, and a desire to make an impact outweigh specific qualifications. In Ukraine, women regularly excel in operational roles – proof that capability transcends stereotypes.

9. The defence sector needs you

Ģirts Priede, Head of SME Financing at SEB Latvia, emphasised that defence is a field full of opportunity. Investors are ready to support Baltic entrepreneurs, and the industry is actively seeking innovation. For those considering a pivot, this is a sector where doors are open.

10. Why we came together: Connection and empowerment

Above all, the Club Day intended to connect participants, who arrived seeking meaningful conversations and left with renewed motivation, shared vision, and the sense that progress happens through collaboration.

What’s Next?

The Novatore Club Day reaffirmed that growth flourishes in strong, supportive communities. When we share, challenge, and champion one another, we unlock leadership potential and accelerate progress.

The next milestone is the Novatore Impact Day on 10 December at the Citadele Conference Centre – a gathering designed for ambitious women seeking insight into leadership, AI, and strategic networking. If you’re looking for fresh ideas, actionable takeaways, and a strong community, now is the time to join us. Learn more and register here >>>

At Novatore, women’s economic empowerment and leadership are not just aspirations – they are actions. And they are made stronger by every woman who joins the movement.