I have a diverse background in media, and one of my most memorable projects was Savaitraštis Kaunui, an 80-page weekly publication created by a dedicated team of 26 people. This project was unique not only for its content but also for its timing—it launched in 2015, a time when most publications were shifting to digital platforms. Accepting the role of director and the challenge of building this newspaper from scratch was a decision driven by my own ambition to create something exceptional.

Challenges and Solutions

The initial phase was tough. We faced financial constraints as the planned budget was significantly cut. Despite this, I tapped into my creativity to design the newspaper and develop its website. Social media advertising, especially through Facebook Ads, was instrumental in driving subscriptions and increasing visibility for the publication. Alongside the advertising team, I actively contributed to creating a sales plan for advertisements and attracting municipal funding. This collaborative work allowed us to secure the necessary finances and achieve the targeted results.

Team Support and Morale

One of the biggest challenges was managing and maintaining the morale of a team of 26 professionals. I focused on giving attention to each team member and constantly improving the work environment. A significant morale boost came when we moved to warmer, more comfortable offices, which greatly improved working conditions. I knew that supporting morale wasn’t my greatest strength, but I put in my best efforts, devoting my time and energy to ensure we moved forward together.

Personal Growth

This role gave me a deep dive not only into media and communications but also into the intricacies of building a business from the ground up. I was involved from the very beginning, setting up the company, recruiting most of the team, and uniting everyone around a common goal. This project, which spanned over a year and a half, provided valuable insights that I later applied in other roles. After I left, however, Savaitraštis Kaunui closed within a couple of years, leaving an emotional impact. Despite this, the skills and lessons I gained helped shape my professional growth and strengthened my confidence.

Conclusion

My experience with Savaitraštis Kaunui taught me the importance of being open to challenges, investing in ideas, and trusting one’s abilities, even in the face of complex situations. This project remains a testament to the impact of ambition, dedication, and teamwork on both professional and personal development.