Interreg INVOLVIM Project Kick-off in Seinäjoki, Finland
Seinäjoki, Finland | June 18th - 19th, 2024
The Interreg project INVOLVIM launched with a dynamic kick-off and steering committee meeting in Seinäjoki, Finland, from June 18th to 19th, 2024. This event united partners and stakeholders to strategize on enhancing the integration of work-based immigrants through voluntary and informal services. The project aims to leverage the knowledge gained across different European regions to improve political instruments related to immigrant integration.
Event Highlights
The meeting began with partners sharing their roles and contributions, setting a collaborative tone for the project. SIMHE, an initiative supporting immigrants in higher education, was presented by the University of Vaasa. Participants visited MONI-info, Seinäjoki's immigration service office, to observe effective local immigration practices. The Wiise Association presented its successful work integration services for immigrants, offering a replicable model. A visit to Lapua’s Jokilaakson matkailupuutarha garden highlighted community efforts in cultural and social integration. A thematic workshop titled “Who is Responsible for Integration?” sparked meaningful discussions on shared responsibilities in immigrant integration. The day concluded with a networking dinner at Nature House Käpälikkö, providing a relaxed environment for networking and idea exchange.
Project Planning and Local Challenges
A detailed overview of the project’s main activities was presented, followed by discussions on local needs and challenges faced by each partner region. This collaborative approach aimed to develop targeted strategies for effective immigrant integration. The objective is to enhance political instruments by incorporating the diverse experiences and knowledge gained from different European regions throughout the project.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Special thanks to Terhi Lake and Sanna Inkeri for hosting the event. We also appreciate the contributions of our guests: Sanna Valkosalo and Kukka-Maaria Huhta-Koivisto from the University of Vaasa, Terhi Hunnakko from MONI-info in Seinäjoki, Jiuliano Prisada, Paul Fairchild, and Mark Wiltshear from Etelä-Pohjanmaan WIISE, and the dedicated volunteers from Iisi in Lapua.
Paving the Way Forward
The kick-off meeting of the Interreg project INVOLVIM in Seinäjoki set a strong foundation for collaborative efforts in improving the integration of work-based immigrants. The exchange of best practices and strategic planning sessions underscored the commitment of all partners to this crucial endeavor. The insights and strategies developed will be instrumental in enhancing political instruments and achieving the project’s goals across different European regions.
