𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆, 𝘄𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲!

FREIIA Final Meeting in Trollhättan – Looking Back, Moving Forward

On 17–18 September 2025, partners from across the FREIIA network gathered for the final meeting at University West in Trollhättan. This closing event marked not only the completion of key project milestones but also the beginning of new collaborations inspired by FREIIA.

Highlights from Day 1

_{The final meeting, hosted by University West in Trollhättan, was a well-organized program that helped us maximize our outcomes.}

The first day focused on wrapping up major work packages, including the Rudder Guide, the projects in Schiermonnikoog, and the creative concepts of Waterbattle and the Eternal Water House. 

_{We shared insights from the Rudder Guide, highlighting the methodology and how it was developed and appllied throughout the project.}

_{Insights from the Water Battle and its role in the project were also shared, showing how young island residents became more aware through this game and how it could be used more effectively in water management to connect youth with structural island themes.}

To learn more about Waterbattle, check out the interview with FREIIA project leader Albert Ruiter.

_{FREIIA in Schiermonnikoog was presented as a best practice, showcasing what we have achieved on the island so far.} 

_{Updates from Bornholm’s Material Bank underlined how research can support practical solutions for island communities.}

_{Presenting FREIIA inspired and related projects within the Les Îles du Ponant network  highlighting our contribution to island innovation.}

_{Updates from FREIIA Bachelor Project underlined how we’re boosting communication and introducing fresh initiatives to participating islands, by students involvement from various universities.}

A special highlight: The interview with researcher Yuyao Mei was also shared with audience: Check out the video, where we explain: what Greenmapper is and why it's valuable for islands.

The day 1st closed with a social activity at Trollhättan’s iconic areas. Thanks to our guide participants experienced the city’s historical heritage and natural beauty a fitting reminder of the strong ties between people, place, and water.

_{We explored the iconic locksarea and enjoyed the beautiful view over the city.} 

Workshops and Reflections on Day 2

The second day shifted towards the future. In interactive workshops, participants worked in groups on themes such as red tape, student involvement, and new forms of collaboration.

_{Using Padlet, each table generated fresh ideas and shared their insights.}

The meeting concluded with a final plenary session, where partners reflected on the journey of FREIIA, exchanged lessons learned, and looked ahead to how the spirit of collaboration can continue beyond the project.

Future learnings and collaborations (forward-looking insights, potential new projects, and opportunities for collaboration) have been collected from all tables and shared on Padlet

_{Online participation made it possible for remote contributors to connect, share insights, and stay engaged throughout the meeting.}

_{To ensure the legacy of FREIIA, follow-up meetings were proposed, and our LinkedIn page was identified as the platform for ongoing connections.}

The Trollhättan meeting was not just an ending, but a new beginning. FREIIA has created a community of researchers, students, and island stakeholders who will carry forward the ideas, energy, and partnerships developed over the past years. It was not only a moment of celebration of achievements, but also of looking ahead, building on the strong foundation FREIIA within Interreg North Sea Programme created. Hear directly from the FREIIA Project Manager Albert Ruiter in this short video.