Building Bridges: How South Ostrobothnia Welcomes Immigrants 

Joukko iloisia ihmisiä kävelee ulkona. A group of happy people are walking outside..

Moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. In South Ostrobothnia, a variety of initiatives are making this transition smoother for immigrants, helping them find their place in Finnish society, build meaningful connections, and even launch new careers. Here’s a look at some of the inspiring initiatives that are making a difference: 

1. Mannerheim League for Child Welfare – Supporting Families, Building Futures 

Every child deserves a happy, healthy childhood. The Mannerheim League works tirelessly to support families, offering services like home-help, counseling, and rehabilitation. For immigrant families, this means access to resources that help children thrive and parents feel supported. 

One of their standout programs is “Friend for an Immigrant Mum”, which pairs immigrant mothers with Finnish-speaking women. Together, they share everyday moments—like trips to the playground or grocery shopping—while building friendships and breaking down cultural barriers. 

Learn more about the Mannerheim League: https://www.mll.fi/en/ 

2. Kansalaisopisto (Adult Education Centre) – A House of Knowledge and Skill 

The Seinäjoki Adult Education Centre is one of the largest in Finland, offering a diverse range of courses to help immigrants and locals alike develop new skills and hobbies. From Finnish language courses to music, visual arts, crafts, sports, and more, there’s something for everyone. 

The course fees are moderate, and some courses are even free, making it accessible to all. Whether you’re looking to improve your Finnish language skills, explore a new hobby, or connect with others in a group setting, the Adult Education Centre provides a welcoming and supportive environment. 

Visit the Seinäjoki Adult Education Centre: https://www.seinajoki.fi/en/childcare-and-education/adult-education-centre/ 

3. WIISE – A Community That Connects 

Imagine moving to a new place and instantly having a network of people ready to help you settle in. That’s exactly what WIISE offers. This local community of various nationalities organizes regular meetups, mentoring sessions, and workshops to help immigrants find jobs, start businesses, and make friends. Whether you’re looking for career advice or just someone to chat with over coffee, WIISE is there to help. 

Learn more about WIISE: https://wiise.fi/ 

4. SIMHE – Unlocking Potential for Skilled Immigrants 

Have a degree or professional experience but unsure how to use it in Finland? SIMHE is here to help. This guidance service, offered by the University of Vaasa, helps immigrants navigate the Finnish job market and education system. Whether you’re looking to continue your studies or find work in your field, SIMHE provides personalized support to help you achieve your goals. 

Explore SIMHE services: https://www.univaasa.fi/en/services/simhe 

5. EKOISTAMO – Where Ideas Grow 

What if your next big idea could change the world? EKOISTAMO is a dynamic hub where students, entrepreneurs, and businesses come together to create innovative, sustainable solutions. Immigrants with a passion for green innovation can collaborate with local networks, turning bold ideas into real-world projects. 

Note: EKOISTAMO is a one-year project, and the responsible organization is SeAMK (Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences). 

Find out more about EKOISTAMO: https://www.ekoistamo.fi/ 

6. MONI Info – Your Go-To Guide for Life in Seinäjoki 

Need help navigating life in Seinäjoki? MONI Info is your one-stop shop for advice on everything from job hunting to accessing local services. Their friendly team offers free, personalized guidance to help immigrants feel at home in their new community. 

Visit MONI Info: https://www.moniseinajoki.fi/ 

7. Finnish Red Cross – A Helping Hand in Tough Times 

For immigrants facing difficult circumstances, the Finnish Red Cross is a lifeline. They provide essential support to asylum seekers, refugees, and others in need, guided by the principle of humanity. Their work ensures that no one is left behind, regardless of their legal or social status. 

Discover the Finnish Red Cross: https://www.redcross.fi/ 

8. Research Spotlight: Ukrainian Integration 

A study by Toni Ahvenainen & Markku Mattila (Migration Institute of Finland) reveals key insights: 

  • Language: Many Ukrainians postponed learning Finnish, hoping to return home quickly, but are now prioritizing language training. 
  • Skills gap: Highly educated Ukrainians often work in agriculture/cleaning due to Finland’s strict qualification rules. 
  • Regional limits: South Ostrobothnia’s job market favors primary industries over skilled professions. 
  • Adaptation: Ukrainians are pivoting to long-term strategies (retraining, entrepreneurship). 

Initiatives like SIMHE, WIISE, and Kansalaisopisto help bridge these gaps. 
Read full study here:  https://iilme-research.org/challenges-of-ukrainian-labour-market-integration  

A Warm Welcome Awaits You 

These initiatives show how South Ostrobothnia is opening its arms to immigrants, offering not just practical support but also a sense of belonging. Whether you’re looking for a job, a friend, or a way to contribute to your new community, there’s a place for you here. 

From learning Finnish at Kansalaisopisto to building connections through WIISE or finding career guidance with SIMHE, the region is full of opportunities to grow, connect, and thrive.