JCI – Junior chamber international in Kuopio

unior Chamber International (JCI) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young people to create positive change in their communities and around the world. It brings together individuals aged 18 to 40 who are committed to developing leadership skills, fostering entrepreneurship, and engaging in civic initiatives.

“JCI Kuopio is a safe community where anyone can join to know other people in Kuopio and to try out new things”, says Maria Kukkonen, President of JCI Kuopio.

JCI operates through local communities called chapters, which provide members with a supportive environment to grow and lead. These chapters are active in cities and regions, each adapting the JCI mission to local needs and opportunities. They serve as platforms for members to engage with the JCI activities. In Kuopio, JCI has adopted the name, JCI Kuopio.

“We use the United Nations sustainable development goals in our organization, and we usually do this in our own strategy”, says Kukkonen.

JCI Kuopio equips its members with leadership skills

JCI Kuopio teaches its members to become leaders by providing hands-on opportunities to manage projects, lead teams, and contribute to strategic planning. Through this practical approach, combined with structured training in areas like public speaking, negotiation, and goal setting, members develop a well-rounded set of soft and hard skills essential for success in both personal and professional life.

“JCI Kuopio is a community of young people in Kuopio who want to grow by doing. We build our leadership, communication, and other skills through trainings, company visits, and practical projects”, says Sujan Pandey, a trial member at JCI Kuopio.

JCI Kuopio not only supports local leadership and community engagement but also opens doors to international exposure and collaboration. By participating in global events such as the JCI European Conference and the JCI World Congress, members gain firsthand experience in international cooperation and cultural exchange. These opportunities allow them to connect with young leaders from around the world, share ideas, and bring back fresh perspectives to strengthen local initiatives. This global engagement enriches both personal development and the community, fostering innovation, diverse partnerships, and a broader understanding of leadership in a global context.

“You have a chance to develop yourself in many ways if you join this organization”, says Kukkonen

Collaborating with local organizations

JCI Kuopio has actively collaborated with various local organizations and offices to support the international community in Kuopio. By partnering with initiatives such as Talent Hub Eastern Finland, Kuopio Talents, Talent First, and few other organizations, JCI Kuopio has played a role in organizing events that promote inclusion and engagement among international community members. These collaborations have provided valuable opportunities for international community members to connect with the JCI community through networking events and career guidance sessions. Through these joint efforts, JCI Kuopio helps create a more welcoming and integrated environment, contributing to the diversity and vitality of Kuopio’s community.

“We enjoy a lively social side with hikes, games nights, and whatever fun ideas we come up with together. New thoughts are always welcome, and we plan things as a group keeping the spirit open and creative”, says Pandey

Open to all individuals in Kuopio aged 18 to 40

JCI Kuopio is open to anyone interested in joining the community. New members begin with a trial membership, which lasts between 6 to 18 months. During this period, they can participate in all JCI Kuopio activities but are not eligible to vote in official meetings or run for a board position. After the trial period ends, and upon meeting certain criteria, trial members become full members of the JCI Kuopio community. At that point, the membership fee applies. This structure allows new members to experience the organization fully before committing to a full membership.

“After the trial membership period has ended and all requirements have been met, the members of JCI Kuopio collectively vote at the annual meeting to approve the transition of a trial member to full membership”, says Kukkonen.

For more information, visit the website

Text: Ezekiel Kuhoga

Photo: City of Kuopio

The series about international communities is part of Talent First’s efforts to support the integration of international professionals into the region. For the series, a video introduction was created for each community. You can watch all the videos on YouTube.