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Recognition for Exceptionally Devoted Individuals in MV

Recognition for highly involved individuals in Monterey Valley

, and ASMedia

2025 September 17 . 9:22 PM

2 min read

Prestigious Recognition for Dedicated Individuals in MV - Recognition for Exceptionally Devoted Individuals in MV

In a grand ceremony held in Schwerin, Minister President Manuela Schwesig (SPD) presented the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany to nine distinguished individuals from Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The awards recognised achievements that go beyond the usual measure and have been rendered over a long period of time.

Stefanie von Laer, a cultural philanthropist, was honoured for her efforts in preserving the approximately 350-year-old historical organ in Ruchow. Through her organisation of music events, she contributes significantly to the cultural enrichment of the region. The award also recognised her role in founding the support association "Historical Organ to Ruchow", now classified as "cultural heritage of national significance".

Karin Wien, another honoree, co-founded the women's protection initiative Guestrow in 1991. Her initiative led to the formation of the state working group of women's houses and counseling centres. Simone Oldenburg, who took the initiative to found the State Working Group of Women's Shelters and Counseling Centres in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, was also among the recipients.

Heiko Kauffmann, a human rights activist, received the award for his commitment to refugees. Falk Koop from Schwerin was honoured for his voluntary work promoting acceptance and tolerance towards queer lifestyles.

Kay Czerwinski, who led the state parents' council MV for eight years, was a co-initiator of the "Alliance for Good Schools". Ulf Schwarzer from Stralsund received the award for building up the local group of the German Life Saving Association (DLRG) in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. His work includes training lifeguards for over 30 years and promoting competitive sports through the organisation of the Sund swim.

Heike Grawwert from Sassnitz received the award as initiator of the folkloristic dance group Jasmunder Plattdancers. Lastly, Karsten Fennel was honoured for organising encounters for understanding between young people of different nationalities and setting up a housing project for disadvantaged young people in Rostock.

The award ceremony was held in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania by Manuela Schwesig on behalf of the Federal President of the Federal Republic of Germany. The honourees' contributions have undeniably enriched their respective fields and the region as a whole, making them deserving recipients of this prestigious award.