The uniform launch was part of a Flamekeeper orientation session, an informative and entertaining evening for more than 4,000 volunteers held at the newly-refurbished Heydar Aliyev Arena, which will host the sambo, judo and wrestling competitions.

The event served as a starting point for the European Games volunteer training programme and activities, which will shortly be getting underway ahead of the Baku 2015 Opening Ceremony due on June 12.

Famous Azerbaijani presenters Tural Asadov and Husniye Maharramova compered the evening, which featured music, videos, and extensive audience participation.

Flamekeepers took part in a social media selfie campaign, a dance flashmob, and heard presentations on the mission and values of Baku 2015. 

They were also given an overview of the venues, competitions and what to expect as a volunteer, and had the opportunity to interview Baku 2015 Athlete Ambassadors, archer Sugra Mugabilzada and triple jumper Nazim Babayev.

"Your participation in the Flamekeepers programme will help to give Europe's sportsmen and women the perfect stage on which to shine," said Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijan's Minister of Youth and Sports and chief executive of Baku 2015, in addressing the volunteers.

"You will also help to foster the spirit of the Games through your enthusiasm, warmth and dedication."

The Flamekeeper orientation session took place at the Heydar Aliyev Arena ©Baku 2015



Participants watched a video about the Baku 2015 uniform production process, showing the facility in Azerbaijan responsible for the manufacture of 110,000 polo shirts and tee-shirts - the Gilan Textile Park in Sumqayit.

"The Flamekeepers are part of what will make the first European Games so special," said Simon Clegg, chief operating officer of Baku 2015.

"I was delighted to see their enthusiasm on display tonight, and am certain that Baku 2015 volunteers will take this passion with them to the Games, and wear their Flamekeeper uniform with pride.

"Their role as the face of Baku 2015 will be critical to the success of the event."

In addition to the official uniform, Flamekeepers will receive a free SIM card from Nar Mobile, supporters of the volunteer programme, as well as meals and drinks while on shift, public transport to and from the venues, a certificate, and a number of other reward recognitions.

The SIM card, issued to Flamekeepers during the interview process, will facilitate communication between volunteers and Baku 2015 during the Games, and also offers users a chance to win a month's free tariff.

Flamekeepers were given an overview of the venues, competitions and what to expect as a volunteer at the orientation session ©Baku 2015



"By volunteering as Baku 2015 Flamekeepers, thousands of young Azerbaijanis will benefit from a dedicated training course, which will grant them valuable skills for the future," said Farhad Hajiyev, executive director of the Azerbaijan Youth Foundation.

"Azerbaijan has one of the youngest populations in Europe, and participating at Baku 2015 will help Flamekeepers develop their potential."

Kent McNeley, chief executive of Nar Mobile, added: "We are incredibly proud to be an Official Partner of the Baku 2015 European Games and supporters of the Flamekeeper programme.

"Nar Mobile will play an important part in ensuring that Flamekeepers are able to make their contribution to the success of the Games.

"We will be producing a mobile app and a pocket guide, and an exciting marketing programme which will help to promote Baku 2015 and put the Games on the international sporting map."



The design of European Games technical officials' uniforms was also presented at the orientation session.

Registration for the Baku 2015 Flamekeeper volunteer programme remains open.

For more information, click here. 

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