Kuopio’s Auroras Group for international women in Kuopio
The Auroras Group in Kuopio is a supportive and empowering network designed especially for educated immigrant women in Kuopio who are seeking to find their place in Finnish working life. More than just a mentoring scheme, Auroras group functions as a community-building initiative that helps international women gain the confidence, skills, and connections they need to move forward in their careers, studies, or personal development.
“Auroras is a place to come no matter if you are looking for a job or internship, or even if you already have a job. More than just the help one can get from the Auroras groups, this is a place where you can build confidence”, says Delia Chinta, Mentor at Auroras group Kuopio.
Supporting international women to adapt into a Finnish job market
For many women with international backgrounds, entering the Finnish job market can feel overwhelming due to language barriers, cultural differences, or lack of professional networks. Auroras group provides a welcoming environment where participants can share their experiences, learn about the Finnish work culture, and receive practical guidance in navigating the local job market.
“In Spring 2025, 81% of mentees experienced that they learned how to put in words their skills and competences in Finnish. 71 % told us that they got new ideas to develop their skills to advance their careers. 85% experienced that it was useful to get peer support, hear and share experiences in the group”, says Hanna-Leena Saavalainen, Specialist in mentoring program under Auroras network.
Mentorship and peer support are the keys
The main method of support is group mentoring, where participants meet in a small group which is supported by an experienced mentor. These mentoring sessions typically take place over several months, allowing time for reflection, growth, and meaningful interaction.
“I warmly welcome anyone who is interested, to join our groups and our network. In the end of every term, we get positive feedback from the groups’ mentees”, says Saavalainen.
Mentoring groups focus on relevant topics such as preparing job applications, understanding the recruitment process in Finland, and developing Finnish language skills related to working life. The sessions are designed to be interactive and participant-led, allowing everyone to bring their own questions and experiences to the table. In addition to structured meetings, the program encourages informal networking and peer support, helping participants build lasting connections and a sense of community. All the discussions are in easy Finnish, so the participants are required to know Finnish at A2-B1 level when entering the mentoring program.
Mentors play a vital role in the network. They are women from various professional fields who are willing to share their insights and support the integration journey of international women. Mentors work as volunteers, and it is also a rewarding opportunity to contribute.
“Delia is our mentor, and I am working as a specialist in our mentoring program”, says Saavalainen.
Everyone is equally respected, valued and respected regardless of their backgrounds
The strength of Auroras group lies in its atmosphere of mutual respect, encouragement, and cooperation. It is a space where participants are valued for who they are and where their potential is recognized. Through participation, many women have found not only practical support but also renewed confidence and motivation to pursue their goals in Finland.
“In our Auroras group meetings, we talk about values, our own powers and strengths, and challenges and it brings in a lot of awareness towards our own identity in the new country”, says Delia Chinta.
There is an open door for any woman who wants to join in as a volunteer
Whether you are an international woman looking to find your professional direction, or someone who would like to support others as a mentor, the Auroras group offers a meaningful way to get involved.
“We also wish to see everyone in our events even after the mentoring program is over. Auroras network is here for you, and we will be happy to meet you in our group-meetings!”, says Saavalainen.
More information, including how to apply, upcoming mentoring periods, and contact details, is available at www.auroras.fi.
Text: Ezekiel Kuhoga
Photos: Auroras Group
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.
