OUR FOUNDERS' STORIES
THE JOURNEY OF EMPATHY: ARINA'S IMPACT ON IMMIGRANTS IN FINLAND
Meet Arina, one of the two founders of CohereUplift, an organisation dedicated to fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and social sustainability. Arina’s journey is truly an inspiration to us all. With her unwavering dedication and passion for promoting the well-being and integration of immigrants and refugees in Finland, she has made a remarkable impact on countless lives.
Armed with an MA degree in Education and Personality Psychology, Arina specialises in Integrative art therapy, utilising innovative approaches to facilitate adaptation and integration. She has leveraged her expertise to arrange over 250 creative well-being workshops to promote confidence, self-compassion, self-esteem and a sense of belonging for immigrants in Finland. Her unique perspective as a former immigrant herself allows her to bring an empathetic touch to her work, understanding the challenges and struggles that newcomers face.
Arina’s commitment to reducing inequalities and supporting diverse communities is evident in her tireless efforts. As a social entrepreneur, she assists immigrants in their cultural, professional, and social endeavours, and also provides valuable employment consulting and facilitates events for international talents in Finland, drawing from her experience in international recruiting and human resources management.
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But Arina’s impact extends far beyond the local landscape. She actively participates in international projects aimed at accelerating Nordic integration and professional growth, showcasing her dedication to nurturing the next generation through mentorship and coaching initiatives. Her collaboration with various organisations in the Northern Ostrobothnia region and the city of Oulu, including the Finnish Red Cross and cultural centres, has allowed her to craft creative well-being projects that have left an indelible mark on the communities she serves.
Arina’s professional journey in Finland is a testament to her selfless dedication to helping others in need by active participation in international educational projects, supporting and leading women's community and reducing inequalities for minorities. She embodies the spirit of social entrepreneurship and community empowerment, proving that one person can make a significant difference in the lives of many.
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Arina’s story serves as a reminder to us all that with passion, dedication, and a willingness to make a difference, we can create positive change in the world around us. She is a true inspiration and a role model for aspiring founders and changemakers.
EMPOWERING CHANGE THROUGH VISION, EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE
Meet Niina, the second founder of CohereUplift, an organisation dedicated to fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and social sustainability. With a diverse range of experiences and knowledge, Niina's journey has shaped her into an advocate for social causes, particularly in the areas of mental health & wellbeing, learning and development, employment, empowerment of women and youth, and inclusion and wellbeing of disadvantaged & minority groups.
Niina's story begins with her personal experience. As a woman, she has faced and overcome challenges, defying societal norms and breaking barriers along the way. Her determination to create a better world for her child, who is on the autism spectrum, ignited a deep passion within her to drive change and ensure inclusivity for all. Having lived in five different countries, Niina has been exposed to a multitude of cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This international experience has granted her an understanding of the interconnectedness of our world and the importance of collaboration to address pressing issues like climate change, inequality, and social injustice.
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Throughout her professional journey, Niina has worked on research and projects focused on learning and development, culture, networking, job integration, empowerment and wellbeing. Her experience in these areas has enabled her to successfully guide individuals and organisations toward creating inclusive workplaces, fostering economic growth, and empowering marginalised communities. With an educational background in organisation and leadership, and Human Resources Development, she understands the power of conscious leadership, the value of continuous learning, and the importance of nurturing talent within organisations.
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As the founder of CohereUplift, Niina brings together her personal experiences, her diverse cultural background, and her professional expertise to create a platform for change. CohereUplift serves as a catalyst for transformation, providing individuals and organisations with the tools, resources, and support needed to address pressing social and economic challenges. With her passion, she is committed to making a lasting impact and empowering individuals and communities to create a brighter future for all.