Three Men Define Latvian Life

Jöran Steinhauer, Alexander Thomas Mathewson, and Kavshanta Malinka Rambadagalla each describe finding a home in Latvia. Steinhauer, a German musician, first visited Latvia during a student exchange in Talsi.

He later returned after time in Germany, drawn back by a fondness for the country and its culture. Mathewson, of Scottish and Bulgarian descent, intentionally moved to Latvia after conducting a Latvian choir in Munich.

Rambadagalla, a neurosurgeon from Sri Lanka, came to Latvia twenty-five years ago after his mother discovered an affordable medical program. He now practices in several Latvian cities and also in Ireland.

All three men speak Latvian fluently, integrating into Latvian society through language and daily life. Mathewson emphasizes learning the language is simply a matter of respect for his adopted home.

The men’s paths to Latvia vary, suggesting that becoming Latvian is less about birthright and more about connection. However, Steinhauer notes he could have easily ended up in another country with a similar story, leaving open the question of what truly defines belonging. The three continue to contribute to Latvian life through their work and dedication.