Jury
Our jury comprises esteemed professionals who drive change and set trends within the industry daily. They possess the unique ability to approach matters both analytically and creatively. This year, the Competition's jury, consisting of 20 members, will help identify communication excellence. The panel includes five representatives each from Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania, along with five international members drawn from business, public administration, academia, the creative industries, and non-governmental organisations. 
Vilma Balčiauskaitė

Vilma Balčiauskaitė

Head of Communication and Marketing at Ekonovus

Experienced communication professional with 13 years in the field, specializing in developing communication and marketing strategies across diverse industries, including pharmaceuticals, engineering, business finance, agriculture, waste management and sustainability. Passionate about creating meaningful value for companies and their teams, she works alongside colleagues to educate various societal groups on proper waste sorting and sustainability. In 2024 she was named among Lithuania’s TOP 10 communication professionals.
Indrek Raudjalg

Indrek Raudjalg

Board member at Estonian Public Relations Association

Indrek Raudjalg is a board member of the Estonian Public Relations Association and founding partner at the Estonian communications firm Agenda PR. His career spans roles at the Ministry of Finance, the Police Board, and PR companies such as Corpore and Hamburg & Partners.
Annela Laaneots

Annela Laaneots

European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024 Southern Estonian coordinator

Annela belongs to the team that won the European Capital of Culture title for Tartu 2024 and is responsible for the 19 municipalities to fulfil the European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024 goals.

Annela has been a communication manager for Estonian and international corporations for more than 20 years and has been twice a member of the board of the Estonian Public Relations Association. Annela was a leader of the European Year of Cultural Heritage in Estonia 2018, she was elected Regent of The King of Setomaa in 2015 and belonged to the team that ran the Finno-Ugric Capital of Culture title year for 28 million Finno-Ugric people in Obinitsa, Setomaa in 2015. She has won several prizes for her work in the cultural and communication field. She has written two books and has worked as an editor-in-chief of Estonian communication managers’ magazine. She has studied in the US and Germany and has taught communication science at Tallinn University for 18 years.

Tomas Kirša

Tomas Kirša

Brand & Digital Consultant

I’ve spent over 15 years navigating the ever-evolving world of marketing 
and communication. Growing up with offline media, public relations, and 
marketing, I witnessed the digital revolution firsthand and understand 
how to bridge the gap between traditional and digital strategies.
As a longtime member and director of the Lithuanian Communication 
Association (LTKA), I stay engaged with industry trends, helping brands 
craft impactful digital campaigns, develop go-to-market strategies, and 
position products for success.
To drive real impact, we need to talk about digital PR and creative 
performance—not just familiar traditional tools and tactics.

Rihards Bambals

Rihards Bambals

Director of Strategic Communication at the State Chancellery of Latvia

Leads strategic communication at the Government Office of Latvia. Rihards is the author of Latvia’s first doctrine on strategic communication and security of the information space (2023-2027), and the editor of Latvia’s first handbook on recognizing and countering disinformation (2022). Rihards has a background in diplomacy, international security, and communication; in the past, he has worked at the Latvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at the Latvian Permanent Delegation to NATO, and at the Task Force of the European External Action Service that exposed and countered the pro-Kremlin disinformation. He has a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Latvia and is the author of numerous publications on societal resilience, international security, NATO, and the EU.

Hanna-Liisa Ruul

Hanna-Liisa Ruul

Head of Communications at Orkla Eesti

Hanna-Liisa has been working in the field of communications for over 15 years. She has gained experience at Estonia’s leading communication agencies, Hamburg & Partners and Agenda PR, advising dozens of companies on strategic and marketing communications. She has also led communications at Statistics Estonia, managing the PR for a large-scale national census project. Today, she leads external and internal communications at Orkla Eesti, part of the international Orkla Group, ensuring the positive reputation of Estonia’s most beloved brands, including Kalev and Põltsamaa. Hanna-Liisa is also a board member of the Estonian Public Relations Association (EPRA). Several PR and marketing communication projects led by her have been awarded at various PR and creativity competitions.

Marius Gurskas

Marius Gurskas

Director of Communications at the Office of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania

More than 15 years experience in communication - public and digital diplomacy, stratcom, government affairs, media relations, PR, country branding. Together with my team in 2019 we have launched a new country's brand strategy and platform - Lithuania Co-Create. In 2023 was responsible for NATO Vilnius summit communication campaign.

Marika Jahilo

Marika Jahilo

Cannes Lions representative in Estonia

Estonian Country Representative for Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity and Managing Partner of Northern Lights Group. Adult education professional with a strong background in media and communications. Having lived a diplomatic life, I have gained valuable experience in international communication and cultural exchange. I see a strong connection between diplomacy and marketing, as both draw from the philosophy of positive psychology. As an influential networker with a passion for creating meaningful connections, I love life filled with creativity, authenticity and playfulness.

Jeffery McMillan

Jeffery McMillan

Director of Brand, Marketing and Communications, PwC Central and Eastern Europe

Jeffery McMillan is the Director of Brand, Marketing, and Communications for PwC Central and Eastern Europe, based in Warsaw, Poland. He leads a regional Marketing, Communications and Business Development team of 36 professionals and coordinates the activities of local territory teams in 27 countries. Jeffery is passionate about building international communities and supporting the development of the CEE region. His professional interests include storytelling, corporate affairs, executive communications, sponsorship activation, leadership and mentoring. In his 18 years at PwC, he has held various roles, including leading communications for former PwC Chairman Bob Moritz in the Global Marketing Organisation.

Janina Sabaitė

Janina Sabaitė

Lecturer at the Department of Communication, at Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution.

I am honored to serve as a jury member for M:it Links (Baltic PR Awards), bringing my 20 years of experience in the communication sector to the evaluation process. Throughout my career, I have worked on projects that shape public thinking and habits, driving meaningful societal change through strategic communication. My expertise spans across the NGO, business, and public sectors, where I have led and facilitated management and communication training for organizations of all sizes. Additionally, my work in social initiatives, environmental education, psychological helplines, and autism advocacy has reinforced my commitment to communication as a tool for impact, inclusion, and transformation. Now as a Board Member of the Lithuanian Association for Mindfulness-Based Psychology and the European Associations for Mindfulness (EAMBA), I also bring a deep understanding of mindful leadership, well-being, and sustainable communication strategies.

Kristel Abel

Kristel Abel

Lecturer of PR Studies at the "Tallinn University"

Balancing theory and practice of public relations has been my professional motto in teaching communication students and working as a communication professional. I have taught communication on both BA and MA levels at different Estonian universities, from propaganda to communication theory courses. My professional experience in communication comes mainly from the Estonian public sector where I have worked at different positions for several organizations. Currently I am managing the communication of the Estonian Social Insurance Board.

Inga Oliņa

Inga Oliņa

Parent Education Program Development Lead at "Plecs Foundation" and "CentrsZIN"

A communications and branding expert with 20+ years of experience in cultural and public engagement projects, she has led major national initiatives, including the Latvian Nationwide Song and Dance Celebrations, "Katram savu tautas tērpu" ect. As the Head of Communication and Branding for Latvia’s Centenary, she developed impactful communication campaigns and fostered international collaborations. For over a decade, she has lectured on communication science and innovation management at Latvian universities. She also leads educational development projects at Plecs Foundation and CentrsZIN, focusing on child well-being, and manages media relations at Hanzas Perons to strengthen its public presence.

Ellen Gunning

Ellen Gunning

CEO of the Irish Academy of PR

Ellen Gunning is a Data Prophet, PR Consultant, Crisis Communications Specialist, Thought Leader, Author, Broadcaster, Serial Entrepreneur, Media Commentator, Radio Station Chairperson and Business Woman. She has developed the first Communications Intelligence platform for the PR industry – Mettacomms – which is powered by AI, and accesses politics, public opinion, economic insights, academic research and worldwide media. She is also CEO of Irish Academy of Public Relations.

Michael Strauss

Michael Strauss

Head of Press and Media for the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group in the European Parliament

Michael leads a multinational communications team, advises political leaders and Members of the European Parliament, and oversees the Group’s media work, communications and campaigns. With over a decade of experience in political communication at EU level and in international media relations, he focuses on combining strategy, messaging and outreach. Michael aims to develop narratives that resonate both internationally and across Europe’s diverse national contexts. He is a member of the German Federal Association of Communicators (BDKOM).

Sebastian Stępak

Sebastian Stępak

Chief Executive Officer, CEE, MSL

Sebastian has over 20 years of experience in communication. He’s been working on the agency's side from the very beginning. He started at a local, Polish agency in 2002 and in 2011 settled in the MSL, a part of Publicis Group. Since 2020 he serves as a CEO CEE, responsible for key markets in Eastern Europe region. During his career, he advised the largest Polish and global brands: Google, Netflix, P&G, IBM, Unilever, Pernod Ricard, Danone, Canal+, Skype, Allegro, Scripps Networks International, TVN, LG, Samsung, Lenovo, Discovery, Viacom and many others. He focuses mainly on corporate, crisis and issue management communications, but he also co-created many marketing and advertising campaigns. He always greatly appreciated the role and strongly promoted creativity in Public Relations. Sebastian sat on the jury of the most important industry competitions such as: Cannes Lions (2015,2024), Sabre Awards, Clio Awards, Golden Drums, Young Creatives, Złote Spinacze, KTR. During his period in MSL was honored in Poland and in the region, winning multiple best agency awards a couple of years in a role.  Sebastian is a great advocate for pro-bono initiatives. For many years he held various positions in the of Polish Public Relations Firms Association. He was given a position of vice-president several times and most recently served as president of the organization. He also serves on the board of the K.I.D.S. Foundation. – Club of Children's Hospital Innovators. Privately, he loves to spend time with his family and restores classic cars (from the 1970s and 1980s), trying to do most of the work himself.

Jānis Palkavnieks

Jānis Palkavnieks

Draugiem Group, Member of the Latvian Exporters Association The Red Jackets

An experienced public relations professional who currently serves as the spokesperson for Draugiem Group. As a board member of the Latvian Exporters Association / Red Jackets, he is dedicated to knowledge export while keeping the brains in Latvia. A diversity management enthusiast and active public figure who shares his expertise in socially responsible entrepreneurship on a global scale. Supports the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom through the “Entrepreneurs for Peace” fund and works on the LGBTQ+ council to improve the legal status of all people in Latvia.
 
Liutauras Ulevičius

Liutauras Ulevičius

Partnership docent at Vilnius University’s Faculty of Communication

Liutauras Ulevičius is a partnership docent at Vilnius University’s Faculty of Communication, where he teaches courses on persuasion, strategic communication, propaganda, disinformation, and manipulation. He is an independent PR consultant and a senior advisor for Lithuania at Aretera Public Affairs. Additionally, he serves as an ad hoc expert for the European Commission and the Lithuanian Council for Culture.
Esra Chism

Esra Chism

Board member of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA)

Esra Chism is a London-based international public relations professional with extensive experience in orchestrating strategic PR campaigns and managing high-profile events. She is the Chief Executive Officer of E02PR, where she leads a team dedicated to delivering impactful media solutions for a diverse clientele. She also serves as a board member of the International Public Relations Association (IPRA), contributing her expertise to the advancement of global PR standards. Throughout her career, Esra has demonstrated a passion for effective communication and brand management, working closely with clients to achieve their objectives. Her expertise spans a wide range of PR activities, including media relations, event coordination, and strategic planning. Esra maintains an active presence on social media, where she shares updates on her latest projects and travels, reflecting her dynamic approach to public relations and her commitment to staying connected with her audience.
Lolita Štašāne

Lolita Štašāne

Head of Brand, Communication and Sustainability at Swedbank Latvia

Lolita Stašāne has more than 25 years professional experience in the communication field. Now she is the Head of Brand, Communication and Sustainability at Swedbank Latvia and a member of Latvian Management Team, also a co-chair of the Finance Latvia Association’s Communication Committee. Lecturer at the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University of Latvia for more than 20 years. For many years she has been a member of Latvian Association of Public Relations Professionals. 

 



 
Ruta Siliņa

Ruta Siliņa

Lecturer at Riga Stradins University, Ombudsman Office of the Republic of Latvia Communication and Head of International Cooperation

Invoice Information
Latvijas Komunikācijas asociācija:
Address Brīvības iela 40-24, Rīga, LV-1050, Latvija
Bank: A/S Swedbank
BIC code: HABA LV22
Acc no.: LV48HABA0551009170794
Registry No.: 40008060436