WFWP Finland - International Women’s Day; Give to Gain

The event, initiated by AFAES in collaboration with five partner organizations, brought together

round 100 women from diverse backgrounds to celebrate International Women’s Day and strengthen

community ties. The program opened with a poetic improvisation by Fatima Usman, accompanied by

Kora artist Yaya Sonko, highlighting women’s resilience and their journey toward recognition and

value in society. WFWP singers then performed Hand in Hand, inviting the audience to join and

creating an uplifting atmosphere.

A panel discussion followed under the theme “The Unseen Woman: Moving from Shadow to the

Table.” Panelists included Johanna Poutanen from CMI, Sandra Tutah from Mirsal, and lawyer

Georgiana Forsang, with Päivi Yoshizumi from WFWP moderating. They reflected on women’s

growing presence in decision‑making roles, the impact of mentoring, and personal stories of

overcoming barriers—such as navigating foreign qualifications and building a meaningful career in

Finland.

Participants continued the conversation in table groups, discussing immigrant women’s integration

challenges, including racism, loneliness, language barriers, and employment difficulties. The focus

remained on empowerment and recognizing each woman’s strengths. The evening concluded with a

shared multicultural dinner and warm networking.