I first learned about the IN-HABIT project in the summer of 2024 while working at Āgenskalns Market as an assistant and “right hand” to the communications lead in charge of overseeing media channels. The project’s key themes – urban development, sustainability, social innovation, and inclusivity – speak for themselves. IN-HABIT aims to build a community where everyone feels welcome, included, and supported.
Not being from Riga, I had my own ideas and impressions about the city – its inhabitants, how supportive they are, and whether such a relatively small place could host events like this. But I witnessed it in action – every visitor can fit right in and enjoy the event both with their eyes and taste buds.
Having attended several events at Āgenskalns Market, I can sincerely say that the goals and values of IN-HABIT ar reflected in real life. Āgenskalns Market is the right place to implement various initiatives and solutions so that people from other districts and cities also want to go there. Friendly, warm, cheerful and actively involved - these are some of the many ways that describe the people that can be found at Agenskalns Market. It should be mentioned that the RE CEP TE co-creation kitchen is also one of the places in the market where people can meet each other, share culinary skills and recipes passed down through generations, organise birthday parties or Sunday brunches and enjoy the buzz of the market with vinyl records in all its magic.
Entering its fifth year, IN-HABIT has left a significant impact. Cultural events draw both locals and visitors from other cities. Thousands visit the market daily; tourists include it in their list of “must-visit” venues. People of all ages and backgrounds mingle and form new friendships. Cooking workshops help foster knowledge about healthier eating habits and sustainable consumption. Āgenskalns Market has become more than a place to shop for local goods and exotic fruits and delicacies from other countries – it is an inclusive community.
IN-HABIT is a valuable project which makes a tangible contribution to urban development in Riga and other European cities. It proves that sustainable, inclusive solutions make cities better, both socially and economically. I have seen it happen. Hence, I encourage others to follow along, take part, and help build something even greater.