My own path in life hasn't been the most straightforward. I went to comprehensive school in my time, from where I moved directly into working life in the service sector, in a grocery store. When I wanted to return to studying at an older age, I made my way through adult high school and into university, where I studied history and became particularly interested in the histories of the Levant and North America. My decision to educate myself has enabled me to work as a substitute teacher of history and social studies, in expert roles at the university, and also as a freelance journalist writing about ice hockey. Now, at 42, I have settled into the role of an integration specialist, a role through which I get to help others find their own path in life.
In addition to work, I strive to find space in my life for hobbies, of which reading is the dearest to me. I read all kinds of literature from one extreme to the other and also encourage others to read by acting as a reading activist. In addition to books, I love video games, even though I don't have time to play them as often anymore. Leisurely walks in nature and visits to art exhibitions and museums are also dear to me.
I have been a Helsinki resident since I was four years old. For the past nearly four decades, I have lived in very different parts of the city and thus learned to know Helsinki's many faces. I have experienced being a Helsinki resident both when I have been financially tighter and when I’ve been financially secure. The city has given me both hope and the opportunity to act to change my situation.
I want to be involved in ensuring that development like mine is possible for other Helsinki residents in the future. I believe this is possible from the ranks of the Left Alliance, as the party has ambitious goals to create a more equal and better future for all of us. In previous elections, I have been involved in the campaigns of Mai Kivelä and Gashaw Bibani, during which I learned how important it is to meet people by listening. As a candidate, I see that council work for a better Helsinki requires precisely this: listening, so that we can respond to city residents’ actual needs.
