When I began work as chairperson of the board of the Kone Foundation a little over ten years ago, the world of foundations was masculine and conservative. The founding charter of the Council of Finnish Foundations was signed in 2003 by 52 representatives of various Finnish foundations, two of whom were women. The situation has changed since then, as there are a few female board members and managers in many foundations. I believe that the Kone Foundation has shown a pioneering example for equality in foundations; at this moment half the board members are women, as are the executive director and the head of administration.

A strong female perspective has undoubtedly influenced the foundation’s activity. When I followed in my father’s footsteps by taking this job, I consciously strived to be a different chairperson from the kind he was. Together with the other board members, we have developed our working methods to be open, responsive and in a spirit of dialogue. When there is an atmosphere of mutual trust, differences of opinion can be tolerated and intuition can form the basis for decision-making. Kone Foundation takes care of the recipients of its grants, offering personal guidance throughout the application process. Our monthly grant is enough to live on (although not very lavishly). Researchers who receive our grants can also apply flexibly for an extra grant for congress trips and other travel abroad. We organise seminars, networking events and every once in a while cheerful parties for the researchers and artists. Our staff continuously receives positive feedback for their friendly counselling and thorough guidance in any problems our clients’ might have.

Read the story of the Kone Foundation here.