Finnish Soil & Soul | #suomi100

There is something absolutely magical about Finland. You cannot see it, touch it or hear it – it’s engraved in Finnish soil and Finnish soul. Embracing it is what brings you closer to Sisu – something I strongly associate Finnish mindset and lifestyle with. I feel very privileged to have lived in Finland for over 5 years, and here is why.

At a first glance, this northern land might not seem very welcoming because of its harsh weather conditions, its relatively distant people and its unimaginably twisted language. But once you let yourself embrace the truly local culture, Finland transforms from what to be known as cold Scandinavia to a Wonderland full of surprises, magic, warmth and soothing comfort. Finland has had its fair share of “downs” in the times of wars, economic recession, Nokia crisis. But what amazes me most is how gracefully the country got back on its feet. In different historical periods, Finland and its key leaders made bold moves to recover, to improve the status, to grow and to always be one step ahead of the whole world regardless of scarce resources, land size, slightly remote location from the rest of the Europe and rough weather. Finland always made it and it will continue doing so. It’s a nation of creative decision-makers and thinkers who are capable of adapting new ways of doing things. Having an incredible mix of rational and innovative minds, Finland produces visionaries who keep their feet on the ground and at the same time dream big making the impossible possible. Finland is all about “Less is more”, “Work smarter, not harder” and “Sisu”. It’s a country where things simply work the way intended. Being a hidden gem of Europe, Finland offers a palette of all imaginable opportunities for a family life, career growth, study path and hobbies. Here for the first time in my life I felt like I can become absolutely anything I want to be, I can shape myself with ease and accept Finnish ways of working and living without losing my inner self. 

It’s hard to keep it cool when I talk about Finland. I easily get emotional when sharing my immigration journey and the fact that Finland has taken me in as its own with no prejudices or limitations. This country gave me a great platform to grow and to route my life’s destination. And it did so for thousands of outsiders who moved to Finland seeking for job, study, peace or love. I found all of them here through determination, passion and, above all, my eternal gratitude toward Finland.

I feel it’s quite symbolic that I get to celebrate Finland’s 100 years of Independence being on the inside as county’s member and resident. I’m addressing these last words as a conclusion of this celebratory essay: “I take my hat off to Finland and Finns and declare to be working hard (and smart) on making this magical country even better, stronger and more unique. After all, I think I’m becoming one of you…!”

May Sisu be with you! Yuliya Nesterenko

#suomi100 #finland100