The dark, proud daughter of the plains is a description many authors from Southern Ostrobothnia have used in their writing. According to them, we women who have grown up in Southern Ostrobothnia are self-sufficient and hard-working. In company we always take our place with style. Pride in this context does not mean arrogance but knowing who you are and where you come from. Writers say we become old women in whom wisdom dwells.

My place of birth, Mietaankylä in Kurikka, created a strong foundation for my life. Communal spirit was ever-present and my childhood was spent at the athletics ground or by the riverbank. My goal of exercising at least an hour every day originates from that time.

My university of life was the National Union of University Students in Finland and the Students’ Union of the University of Helsinki. The cafes of the Porthania building and the University Main Building were also important places to me.

The atmosphere at the History Department in Heimola was very academic, but also inclusive. Many of the teachers became my friends, and I have often been in touch with them over the decades.

Studying history, political science and journalism at the University was a great combination for a career in journalism. However, as a 30-year-old I had already moved on to become a press officer. My longest lasting positions were as Head of Communications at the Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities and as Director of information and Communication for the Parliament of Finland.

What is amazing about my work is the big, important issues, meeting interesting people, and the international aspect of it all. I feel that I can do my part in supporting democracy and creating a better Finland as well as a better world.