Meeting people and growing together – OmaStadi has brought community to Helsinki

OmaStadi funding has been used to organise events that bring people together all around Helsinki. It has helped with renovating the canopy kiosk near Arabianaukio Square into a meeting place for local residents and strengthening the emotional and interaction skills of schoolchildren, among other initiatives.

Around 7,500 people gathered in Sinebrychoff Park in South Helsinki in August. Koffari, as the park is more commonly known among locals, was the venue for the Koffarin Kinofest film festival for all ages. During the three-day free event, people watched films and jammed to music in the park.

The atmosphere was electric. A varied programme entertained people of all ages, from small babies to grandparents.

“I think this is a great example of an OmaStadi implementation. The proposal passed in the spring 2024 vote, and the very next year we were able to enjoy the festival atmosphere,” says Borough Liaison Lotta Jäättelä.

Read the full article (hel.fi/en)

Photo: Paavo Jantunen