Applications Open for 'Sēlijas Sudrabs 2026' Competition; New Youth Category Introduced
The 'Sēlijas Sudrabs 2026' competition has been announced, featuring a new youth category 'Jaunsudrabiņš' for individuals aged 13–25. Submissions are accepted until September 4.
The call for entries for the 'Sēlijas Sudrabs 2026' competition is now open. The competition honors individuals who contribute to the development of the historical region of Sēlija. Three main prizes will be awarded – each winner will receive a silver brooch with a wolf silhouette crafted by jeweler Ranta Roga. Any resident or organization from Sēlija can submit a nomination, which must take the form of a literary work (essay, story, poem, etc.) of 1–3 pages.
New Category: 'Jaunsudrabiņš'
For the first time, a dedicated youth category has been introduced. Named after writer Jānis Jaunsudrabiņš, who was born in Sēlija, this category is open to young people aged 13 to 25. One winner will be selected and receive a Sēlijas wolf mascot, based on a design by artist Ieva Svarāne and made by craftswoman Sandra Pontāga. Nominations may highlight a young person's involvement in community life, entrepreneurship, academic achievements, or other fields that promote Sēlija.
Award Ceremony and Past Winners
The award ceremony will take place on September 27, 2026, at the Viesīte Cultural Centre 'Sēlija' during the 6th Sēlija NGO Forum. Submissions must be sent by email to [email protected] or by post to Liepu iela 20, Aknīste, Jēkabpils novads, LV-5208, by September 4 at 11:59 PM. The full regulations are available at selija.com.
Previous main prize winners include Vanda Rimša (Ilūkste), Stefans Rāzna (Bebrene), and Daina Alužāne (Rubene) in 2025, as well as Sanita and Aivars Lūši (Sauka), Ieva Jātniece (Kaldabruņa), and Alberts Kreņevskis (Gārsene) in 2024. The competition is organized by the association 'Ūdenszīmes' and the community network 'Sēlijas salas', with financial support from the Society Integration Foundation.
