New colleague Maris Praats – our jack-of-all-trades and a slightly daring optimist
When Maris joined the NFCS team a few months ago, she brought with her more than just professional skills and expertise – she brought warmth, energy, and a genuine curiosity about everything and everyone. When something needs to get done, she organises, connects, and gets the wheels turning – that’s our Maris!
Maris doesn’t shy away from new challenges; she faces them boldly and has a gift for making even complex topics understandable and engaging. She’s the kind of person you can always count on – whether it’s keeping a work promise or offering a kind word of support. But who is Maris, really? And what are her thoughts on civil society and life in general? Let’s find out!
Welcome, Maris Praats! How would you describe yourself?
I like to call myself a social landscape chameleon, a Jack-of-all-Trades, and a slightly daring optimist who believes even the craziest ideas can be brought to life. When something sparks my passion, I go all in – I don’t know how to do things halfway!
You’ll find me moving between different fields – from communications to internal security and youth work. But you might also catch me hiking in the mountains, tackling an obstacle course, or reflecting on how to make the world a better place while sitting in a sauna. I’m not the type to sit quietly and wait for things to happen – if needed, I’ll organise, connect, create, and get things moving. I believe no challenge is too big; the important thing is to start!
When things feel difficult, I take the first step, then the second – and soon what seemed impossible becomes reality. I enjoy testing my limits and trying new things – whether it’s taking on an unexpected project, speaking in front of a large audience, or trying a completely new sport that demands both courage and persistence.
What is your role at NFCS, and what kind of questions can people bring to you?
At NFCS, I work as a Communications Specialist, focusing on communicating the social innovation project under the Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme. My job is to make complex topics understandable for people, highlight important stories, and help the project reach its target audiences effectively.
What has been your experience with civil society so far?
For me, civil society is both a profession and a way of life. I’ve been actively involved in youth organisations since middle school and have served as both a volunteer and a leader in various initiatives. Currently, I’m active in JCI and serve as a volunteer assistant police officer, while also contributing to several smaller and larger projects.
I’m also studying Community Development and Social Wellbeing at the University of Tartu, which gives me a deeper understanding of how civil society works and how different initiatives and organisations can come together to create positive change.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy an active lifestyle and sports, especially public sports events and extreme challenges that push both my body and mind. I’m also a passionate learner who believes in lifelong development. And yes – I’m quite the organiser: my email inbox is usually so well sorted that you’ll rarely see more than ten emails on the front page.
When I’m not working or chasing new knowledge, you’ll likely find me in nature – hiking, walking in bogs, or just breathing in the fresh air and gathering my thoughts. The forest, sea, and mountains are my recharge zones, where I can slow down, make space for new ideas, and clarify my goals. Often, I’m accompanied by my four-legged friend, who teaches me the art of living in the moment.
I also love travelling and seeking out new experiences. I’ve participated in youth exchange programmes and simply explored new and fascinating places. Volunteering is another key part of my life – I truly believe everyone can contribute to building a better society.
What is your heartfelt wish for Estonia’s civil society, NGOs, and communities?
I wish for Estonian civil society to become more confident, bold, and visible! We have an incredible wealth of ideas and doers, but too often these remain within small circles and don’t reach a wider audience. I believe collaboration, courage, and telling our stories are key to truly changing the world.
I hope more people will realise the power of civic activism and feel that their contribution matters. That they’ll find their community, feel a sense of belonging, and know their input is valuable. Civil society should be a space where everyone can bring their ideas to life, share knowledge, and create something meaningful together.
Interview by Priit Põiklik.