On February 5, 2025, a civil society recognition event took place at the Knights' Hall in Toompea, where the President of the Republic of Estonia, Alar Karis, presented awards to notable contributors to civil society. MTÜ Sa Suudad was also recognized, and its founder and board member, Enelis Linnas, received the "Newcomer of the Year" title.
Introducing the recognition, the Chair of the Estonian Nonprofit Organizations (NGO) Union, Triin Toomesaar, said: "Although established only in 2024, MTÜ Sa Suudad has already made a significant impact by giving a voice to young people who have engaged in or are currently engaging in high-risk behaviors, thereby helping to make the education, social, and justice systems more youth-friendly. Through the organization, young people have been able to talk about their difficult experiences and their root causes, as well as provide adults with recommendations on how to better support young people."
MTÜ Sa Suudad has been working diligently to raise awareness and understanding in society about the challenging experiences of young people, while offering them the support and opportunities they need to build a better future. The "Newcomer of the Year" recognition demonstrates that the organization's short but meaningful period of operation has already started to bear fruit. Enelis said the following about receiving the recognition: “The last year has been very special. I have been able to fulfill my dream, which began more than 10 years ago, to create an NGO to help drive change in society. In my opinion, it is impossible to start a nonprofit without the right people by your side, and that these people are willing and motivated to contribute their time and energy to a complex journey where everything is developing rapidly, and there are more ideas than can be accomplished. I am deeply moved by how kind, supportive, and helpful people can really be. Thank you to each and every one of you who has contributed to the creation of the NGO, allowing it to grow and develop in a start-up way. But my biggest thanks go to the young people! To the young people who have had a tough time in life, who have been let down by many adults, but you trusted me, helping this NGO truly be youth-inclusive. Inside of you is such strength and a desire to contribute to making sure that other young people will have a better future than you did. Thank you! This recognition is for all of you who have been with me on this journey! Now, let’s keep going!”
More information about the event can be found here: The Civil Society Achievers of the Year 2024 have been revealed