Meet our team
Here you can find more information about the people at the National Foundation of Civil Society (NFCS) who are working with social innovation.
Evelyn Valtin, Project manager
Evelyn Valtin is the Pproject manager for social innovation activities under the Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme measure “Supporting Social Inclusion.”
Evelyn joined the NFCS team in 2017, bringing with her a wealth of experience in international cooperation, civil society leadership, and values-driven work. She has been one of the key initiators in establishing the Social Innovation Competence Centre and continues to contribute actively to the development of the field, supporting networks and shaping new collaboration opportunities.
Alongside her professional work, Evelyn has dedicated decades to advancing animal welfare and participating in socially significant initiatives – from organising animal welfare conferences and visiting schools to volunteering in various organisations. She finds balance and inspiration in spending time in nature, gardening, nurturing family and friendships, and researching her family tree.
Evelyn’s heartfelt wish for Estonian civil society is more understanding, collaboration, and care:
“I wish we valued both nature and each other more. That everyone would feel their contribution matters and recognise that caring can be the strongest catalyst for change.”
Elmo Puidet, Coordinator
Since 2024, Elmo Puidet has been the coordinator for social innovation sub-activities within the Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme. His mission is to promote social innovation as a mindset in both civil society and the public sector. Elmo believes that society flourishes when active people and organisations are supported with resources, knowledge, and opportunities for collaboration.
Previously, Elmo led the Viljandimaa Development Centre and has long been involved with civil society organisations, including JCI Estonia, where he served as President, trainer, and mentor. Elmo is a go-to person for anyone seeking advice, collaboration, or fresh perspectives on social innovation.
In his free time, Elmo enjoys his new role as a grandfather, loves science fiction literature, and travels to places rich in history and architecture. For the third sector, his wish is courage, entrepreneurial spirit, and collaboration that brings value to entire communities.
Sandra Paulus, Coordinator
Sandra Paulus coordinates sub-activities under the Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme, aimed at supporting creative and impactful solutions to societal challenges.
Sandra joined NFCS in 2020 after returning to Estonia from abroad, diving deeply into civil society issues in Estonia for the first time. Beyond her work, she is an active member of Effective Altruism Estonia, gardens at Pelguaed, is a regular donor and blood donor, and a member of the Women’s Voluntary Defence Organisation. Her life flows in a rhythm where meaningful work and personal contribution to society go hand in hand.
Sandra’s wish for Estonian civil society is to preserve what has been built and to move forward together – boldly, creatively, and collaboratively:
“I hope we learn to take time, to stay open, curious, and cooperative in finding impactful solutions to the challenges that affect us all. And to trust ourselves more – within each of us lies something that can make the world a little better.”
Maris Praats, Communications Specialist
Maris Praats works as a Communications Specialist for the “Supporting Social Inclusion” measure of the Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme at NFCS. She brings stories to life that make complex topics easier to understand and help make social impact more visible.
For Maris, civil society is not just a job – it is a way of life and a conscious choice of values. From a young age, she has been involved in youth organisations and today remains active in JCI and as a volunteer assistant police officer, contributing to various initiatives both big and small. She has graduated in Community Development and Social Wellbeing from the University of Tartu, equipping her with a strong foundation to create positive change that responds to the real needs of communities.
In her free time, Maris is often found outdoors – hiking, exploring bogs, or walking along the seashore. She loves an active lifestyle, is a passionate participant in public sports events, and embraces new challenges that test both mind and body.
