A Platform for Co-Creation
YoungTalk is a co-creation initiative coordinated by Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK) with regional partners. Over the years, it has grown into an important platform that connects international talents, young professionals, companies, educational institutions, and regional decision-makers around questions of attraction, inclusion, and talent retention in Ostrobothnia. This year’s event once again demonstrated a growing interest in these topics as more than 95 people attended, with a strong turnout of company representatives; a sign that the region has a genuine appetite for change.
The evening began with networking opportunities before participants gathered for keynote presentations and collaborative discussions.
People at the Heart of Regional Growth
The event opened with remarks by Minister Joakim Strand, who highlighted the central role of people in regional growth and competitiveness. His message reflected a key challenge facing not only Ostrobothnia but many regions across Europe: attracting talent is important, but creating a sense of belonging is what ultimately encourages people to stay, contribute, and invest in their communities.
The speech set the tone for the evening by emphasizing that successful regions are built through people, their skills, ideas, and willingness to participate in shaping the future. A region seeking international growth must also be able to embrace international perspectives and create opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds to feel valued and included.
Cracking the Code of Belonging
The first keynote speaker, Katarina Hellén, Research Manager at VILPE, explored the concept of belonging and its significance for both individuals and organizations. Her presentation examined why some people choose to stay in a region while others leave, highlighting that employment alone does not fully explain these decisions.
Belonging, she noted, is a fundamental human need with a significant impact on well-being, engagement, and retention. Creating opportunities for people to form meaningful connections, participate in communities, and feel welcomed can have a lasting influence on their decision to build a future in the region. Her insights encouraged organizations to consider how workplace culture, social networks, and everyday interactions can strengthen inclusion and support talent retention.
Unlocking Potential Through Collaboration
Kenneth Engblom, Vice President Europe & Africa at Wärtsilä, shared perspectives on how individuals and regional actors can work together to unlock talent and create pathways for growth. Drawing on his own career journey, he reminded the audience that careers rarely follow a straight line. “Every opportunity leads to something. I never say no. Every job leads to something. Career building is a marathon, it takes time.”
His message highlighted the value of remaining open to opportunities and recognizing that professional development is often built through small steps and accumulated experiences rather than a single defining moment.
The final keynote speaker, Keimo Kalliosaari, CEO of Leinolat Group, addressed inclusion from a strategic perspective. He emphasized that employees need to feel included not only in daily operations but also in the future of the organization. His presentation also highlighted how diverse perspectives can strengthen organizations and create workplaces where people from different backgrounds can contribute, develop, and see long-term opportunities.
“Employees need to feel included within the company, not only as part of daily operations, but also knowing they can grow within the organization. Taking perspectives from Finnish and other cultures helps us build stronger workplaces. Inclusion should be a strategy.”
Turning Discussion into Action
Following the keynote presentations, participants engaged in co-creation sessions focused on three themes: regional success, inclusion in practice, and recognizing hidden potential. The discussions encouraged participants to move beyond identifying challenges and toward developing practical solutions for both organizations and the wider community.
As part of these discussions, Henri Kinnunen, CEO of WeTech, shared a simple but timely message: “Be curious. Technology is changing fast, so keep learning.” His remarks highlighted the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability in a rapidly evolving world. Curiosity, openness to new ideas, and a willingness to continuously develop skills were presented as essential qualities for both personal and professional success.
The theme of inclusion was further explored by Sanna-Mari Kaakinen, Sustainability Manager at ABB Smart Power, who challenged participants to reflect on their own role in creating inclusive workplaces.
“Are we our own roadblock to inclusion?”
She emphasized that inclusion starts with everyday actions. By questioning assumptions, challenging unconscious biases, and speaking up when something feels exclusive, individuals can contribute to a more welcoming environment. Sometimes, even small actions such as initiating a conversation or inviting a colleague to join a discussion can help create a stronger sense of belonging.
The final co-creation session featured Johnny Lindqvist, CSO & Partner at TK Engineering, who encouraged participants, especially students and young professionals, to actively build their networks and seek opportunities.
Looking Ahead
YoungTalk26 once again demonstrated the value of bringing together regional companies, institutions, students, and international talents to discuss the future of Ostrobothnia. While the speakers approached the topic from different perspectives, a common thread emerged throughout the evening: creating a region where people choose to stay requires more than attracting talent alone.
Belonging is built through inclusive workplaces, meaningful opportunities, continuous learning, strong networks, and a shared commitment to recognizing the potential of every individual. As the discussions throughout YoungTalk26 showed, turning potential into belonging is not the responsibility of any single organization. It is a collective effort that requires collaboration between companies, educational institutions, public authorities, and the community.
