Amani Al-mehsen builds bridges

As Chair of the National Council of Women of Finland (Naisasialiitto Unioni), Amani Al-mehsen’s work and life are deeply rooted in the pursuit of equality and human rights. She describes herself as a human rights expert, freelance journalist, columnist, and author. Her interest in social issues has grown through grassroots work and personal lived experience.

Being born into a refugee family in Kuopio gave Amani a different perspective on the world from an early age. She has grown up between Iraqi and Finnish cultures. Building her own identity while navigating two communities and cultures has not been straightforward.

“I was, and still am, between two cultures and communities, both of which I belong to and do not belong to at the same time,” she says.

Amani does not see biculturalism as a ready-made answer but as an ongoing process. She describes herself as a combination of different influences that creates something new while respecting the old. Her identity is still evolving and, in her view, may never be completely finished.

The search for belonging has not been made easier by hate speech and difficult experiences. At the same time, Amani emphasizes the importance of human connections.

“What makes it easier are the wonderful people and encounters that create a sense of belonging.”

Determined hope inherited from her mother

Amani’s mother has had a profound influence on her life. She also mentions her close friends, whom she admires and from whom she draws wisdom and love. From her mother, Amani says she inherited a strong work ethic, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to defending justice.

“I often say that the strongest emotional legacy I inherited from her is determined hope. The kind of hope that inspires action toward a better future,” Amani says.

Her mother’s life experiences have shaped both her mother and Amani herself.

“My mother has more wisdom and life experience than anyone should need in a single lifetime, but those experiences have shaped her and, through her, shaped me as well.”

Courage grows from responsibility

Amani is known as a courageous voice in public discussion. For her, courage does not mean avoiding difficult topics but addressing them in a way that brings dialogue and empathy back into the conversation.

“I believe that each of us has a responsibility to do what we can to build a better world and to use our voice on behalf of those who are often left in the shadows,” she says.

Amani is inspired by the idea that every speech, article, or training session can open the door to new conversations, ideas, and change.

“It happens little by little, but every single step matters and is inspiring.”

A proud generalist

Amani’s educational and professional background is diverse. With a laugh, she admits that her résumé is somewhat complex. Behind it lies a desire to take action, explore new opportunities, and pursue even the dreams that seem intimidating.

“I have always been highly driven, willing to pursue even the dreams that feel frightening, and interested in many different things,” she says.

In the past, she wondered whether having such a broad range of experiences might weaken her career prospects. Since then, she has come to see it differently.

“All kinds of different experiences help build a broader understanding of the world, Finland, society, and my own skills. I am a proud and capable generalist, with a few clear areas of expertise that I focus on,” she says.

Kuopio has changed while remaining recognisable

When Amani compares today’s Kuopio with her memories of the early 2000s, she sees a city that has undergone significant change. It still feels familiar, yet at the same time it has become a more open and diverse place.

“Kuopio has changed tremendously. It still feels familiar, but I have been impressed by the city’s bold development over the past decade. Today, Kuopio is more diverse, open-minded, aware, and a growing centre for all kinds of Finns and Savonians who want to build a better society together while also living the best lives they can,” Amani says.

According to Amani, change does not mean that the city has lost its sense of familiarity. On the contrary, she believes the best places are those that can evolve while preserving what is valuable about them.

“Yet people still greet familiar market vendors and stop for a chat at the marketplace. The best places are those that dare to change while holding on to the traditions that matter.”

Amani’s own multicultural everyday life is built on the best aspects of both cultures. From her Iraqi roots, she values community spirit, storytelling, good manners, generosity, and a rich cultural heritage.

She sees many of the same qualities in Finnish and Kuopio culture.

“I could list many similar characteristics, because these two cultures have a great deal in common. Above all, it is about treating people as people, a sense of community, perseverance, the courage to try new things, and the desire to create equal opportunities. And especially here in Kuopio and Savo, it is about Finland’s very best humour and dialect.”

Text: Creative marketing agency Ida Fram

Photo: Amani Al-mehsen