The first year as Deputy Mayor of Education and Training is coming to an end, and the new school year will begin in a few days.

My role is quite extensive and includes a variety of tasks. However, the focus is always on promoting the well-being and rights of children and young people.

My goal is to increase equality and inclusion in both the education sector and the entire city, making Helsinki a city for all children.

This work is done together, which is why I meet many people in my job, including our own employees and representatives of stakeholders.

It is a great privilege to meet different people and hear their views and opinions.

I also frequently visit various places, and I always try to meet children and young people during these visits.

My responsibilities also include advocacy and representation, both nationally and internationally. It has been wonderful to see that Helsinki’s daycares and schools attract significant interest around the world.

Collaboration with Ukraine has continued, and there have been several related meetings.

This year has included not only meetings, visits, and conferences but also various celebrations and events. It has been amazing to see how the City Hall also serves as a venue for receptions and festivities.

The importance of my skilled team is emphasized in this role as well. Over the year, we have come together beautifully, and our working methods have become established. Together, we accomplish a lot, and it doesn’t take much for us to “fog up the plexiglass.”

I am often asked if anything has surprised me. What is new and perhaps the most surprising for me in this role is the necessity to take photos of everything. I love photography, but I am much more comfortable behind the camera.

However, it has become increasingly clear that this job is extremely interesting and meaningful, and it is a great joy and honor to do this work together with wonderful professionals for the benefit of the people of Helsinki.