This autumn marks nine years since I joined European Youth Finland. Of these, I have spent the past two years serving as Chairperson of European Youth Finland. These years have included writing articles for our member magazine Tähdistö, getting involved in the regional organization, and working with the federal board. I could say that this organization has taught me to love organizational work and this incredible European Youth community. However, the time has come to continue my journey. I have received unanimous support from the European Youth Finland federal board to run for the Bureau of the JEF Europe Council. JEF Europe is the international umbrella organization of European Youth, of which Finland’s European Youth is the second-largest national member.
I am running for the Bureau of the JEF Europe Council because I believe JEF is the youth organization of the future. As Chairperson of European Youth Finland, I have seen how passion, cooperation, and shared values can transform an organization’s work. I want to bring this same mission to the level of JEF Europe as well. To me, JEF is not just an organization, but a movement that unites people across borders to believe in a democratic, open, and solidary Europe. I want to help build a Council where every representative feels heard and where decisions are made boldly, yet collectively.
My goal is to be elected to the Bureau of the Council. I have a total of five years of experience in European Youth Finland in various leadership positions, at both the regional and federal levels. I believe in listening leadership, openness, and the idea that the best ideas emerge through dialogue. As part of the Bureau, I want to promote an active, inclusive, and forward-looking JEF, where cooperation helps us get through even the toughest times.
JEF Europe’s new officeholders will be elected for a two-year term at the congress held in Strasbourg on 14–16 November. Although my path now leads me to seek trust at JEF’s congress, European Youth Finland will remain an important organization, forever cherished in my heart. Carried forward by this organization, I have graduated from upper secondary school, completed my master’s degree at university, and moved into working life. Through this organization, I have gained dear, close friends, with whom I believe friendship will last a lifetime. At this point, I can honestly say that I have given you my all, and you have given your all to me. Thank you for that!
Although my term of trust in European Youth Finland ends at the end of this year, you can always count on my support. Now it is time for a new generation of European Youth to build a cool youth organization in their own image.
