Moving Forward Together: Inclusion, Equality and the Future of People of African Descent in Finland
On 26 October 2026, Helsinki Central Library Oodi hosted Forward Together: Inclusion, Equality and Future of People of African Descent in Finland. The seminar and dialogue event brought together researchers, experts, community representatives and members of the public to discuss equality, inclusion and the experiences of people of African descent in Finland.
The event created space for meaningful conversations about representation, belonging and the importance of recognising the history and contributions of African-descended communities in Finnish society.
The event also featured contributions from researchers and international representatives. Dr Faith Mwkesha shared commentary on the history of people of African descent in Finland, contributing to the discussion on recognition and representation. H.E. Mohamed Achgalou, Ambassador of Morocco to Finland, also participated in the opening session, highlighting the international perspectives brought together at the event. The opening session also included remarks from Michaela Moua, the European Commission's anti-racism coordinator.
Recognising History and Experiences
The programme included a keynote address on the history of people of African descent in Finland by Anna Rastas and Leila Koivunen, authors of Ensimmäiset tulijat. Participants also watched the short film ROSA and reflected on African influences over time.
The Tree of Belonging: A Story About Our Shared Future
A memorable contribution came from Fatima Usman, Chairperson of AFAES, who shared The Tree of Belonging, a Nigerian story about equality, inclusion and our shared future in Finland.
In the story, a grandmother explains that a tree is strong because its roots are deep and all its branches have space to grow. Fatima used this message as a reflection on Finnish society, where people from different backgrounds and cultures share a common future.
She highlighted the importance of ensuring that people of African descent feel they belong, have a voice and receive fair opportunities. She also emphasised the importance of encouraging Black children and young people to pursue their dreams without being limited by stereotypes or low expectations.
The story offered a powerful reminder that when people are denied the opportunity to reach their potential, society as a whole loses something.
Dialogue on Equality, Working Life and the Future
Facilitated discussions explored the experiences of people of African descent in Finnish working life and Afro-Finnish young people's experiences of equality and their hopes for the future.
The working-life panel examined barriers to employment, experiences of discrimination and the challenges many people face in having their qualifications and skills recognised. Speakers also highlighted the importance of positive role models, supportive communities and concrete action to create genuinely equal opportunities.
The youth panel featured Vida Amoah of the Vantaa Youth Council, Salman Gadid of the Finnish Muslim Forum and Jenny Kasongo of Fem-Ry, moderated by Julian Owusu. The discussion highlighted the importance of giving young people a genuine voice in decisions affecting their lives. Education, employment, participation and representation were among the issues explored, alongside the need to ensure that young people's contributions lead to meaningful change.
The questions and comments throughout the event encouraged the exchange of perspectives and reinforced the importance of listening to people's experiences when working towards a more equal society.
Moving Forward Together
The event highlighted the importance of continued dialogue, recognition and collaboration in building a more equal and inclusive Finland. Creating opportunities for people to share their experiences and be heard is an important step towards meaningful change.
As we continue through the Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025–2034), the message remains clear: everyone deserves the opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive.
Moving forward together means recognising our shared responsibilities and building a future where everyone has a place, a voice and the space to grow.
Want to see more photos from the day? Browse the full photo gallery from Forward Together.
Photos: Fumnanya Nketa
Written by: Natalia Ericksson