Hanken student receives award from Folktinget

Harju, who studies entrepreneurship and management at Hanken, says the recognition came as a surprise.

“I was very surprised, as I did not know that I had been nominated. But of course, I was extremely happy, and it felt great to see that my work is appreciated and recognised by Folktinget,” she says.

She first heard about the language ambassador role through an acquaintance who thought she would be well suited for it. Although she was not previously familiar with the assignment, she became curious and quickly found that she enjoyed the work very much.

Her studies at Hanken have also strengthened her commitment to language-related issues, as she sees every day how important it is to be proficient in both of Finland’s national languages in working life.

“When you know Swedish, your opportunities are doubled,” says Harju.

As a Finnish speaker, she feels that her studies at Hanken have strengthened both her Swedish language skills and her confidence in using the language. This has made it easier for her to tell younger Finnish-speaking pupils about Swedish and the opportunities that come with learning the language.

Harju has worked as a language ambassador for the Svenska nu network, which aims to motivate and inspire Finnish-speaking children and young people throughout the country to use Swedish with confidence. Read more about Svenska nu.

The award was presented at Folktinget’s Finland Swedish Heritage Day celebration at the House of Nobility on 6 November. Folktinget honoured individuals who have contributed in various ways to strengthening the position of the Swedish language in Finland.

Text: Marlene Günsberg
Photo: Private