JEF Finland President Amanda Alvesalo received an invitation in early November from President of the Republic Sauli Niinistö and Dr Jenni Haukio to the Independence Day celebration at the Presidential Palace. This year’s theme is “times are changing”.
”It’s a great honour to represent our organisation at the Independence Day reception. I’m also very pleased with this year’s theme. The President wants to look to the future and consider solutions to the challenges we face. As the world is in turmoil, JEF Finland’s view is that Finland’s interests are best served within a strong European Union. Times really are changing, and we won’t get through it alone. My way of expressing patriotism is to nurture European cooperation and our shared values,” says President Alvesalo.
The reception is also generating interest for other reasons.
“Many people have asked what I’m wearing. The dress was designed by Katri Niskanen, and the jewellery is on loan from Atelier Torbjörn Tillander. The fan was designed and painted by designer Maria Jokinen. The inspiration for the fan’s design came from the merging of Finnish and European identity. We have an entire generation that has lived within the era of the European Union, and a European identity in no way detracts from one’s Finnish identity. This false opposition is entirely unnecessary, and it makes me sad.”
There has also been a bit of bad luck along the way.
“Unfortunately, my partner fell ill a couple of days before the event. He’s at home with a fever and can’t join me. I, fortunately, have stayed completely healthy, and despite everything I’m attending the celebration with great joy,” concludes Alvesalo.
Alvesalo’s estimated handshake time is 19:00. You can follow the Independence Day reception on Yle’s channels, or watch it live on Yle Areena.
Happy Independence Day!