Monaliiku at Integration 2026: Building Connections, Sharing Ideas and Strengthening Inclusion

4.11.2026

Last week we were at the Integration 2026 event, Finland's national event bringing together professionals, organisations, public authorities, educational institutions and other stakeholders working in the field of integration and refugee reception.

Held at Clarion Hotel Helsinki Airport in Vantaa, the two-day event offered an inspiring opportunity to exchange knowledge, explore new perspectives, strengthen professional networks and discuss how we can build a more inclusive society together.

Our participation focused on gaining new insights, meeting potential partners and identifying opportunities for future cooperation that could strengthen our work supporting the wellbeing, inclusion and participation of immigrant women and girls.

Important conversations about integration and equality

The programme covered a wide range of relevant topics. Among the sessions we attended were The Need to Rethink Migration, From Myths to Reality, How Modern-day Slavery Took Root in Finland, and Integration as a Driver of Europe's Competitiveness and Social Cohesion.

These discussions highlighted the complexity of migration and integration, reminding us that successful integration requires more than access to education or employment. It also involves equal opportunities, human rights, safety, social participation and a genuine sense of belonging.

The session Upper Secondary Schools Supporting Integration and Employment also offered an interesting perspective on the role of education in creating pathways towards employment and active participation in society.

Empowering ideas and new perspectives

One of the highlights of the second day was the Elevator Pitch Competition, organised by Diaconia University of Applied Sciences (Diak) and Moniheli ry.

It was particularly exciting to see how different ideas and initiatives could be presented in a short but impactful format. The competition created a platform for innovative approaches to integration, including digitalisation and AI, sustainable development and the promotion of participation.

It was engaging and inspiring to hear people share practical ideas, fresh perspectives and solutions that could make a difference in the future of integration work.

Another particularly meaningful session was Without Mental Health, We Cannot Talk About Integration, featuring the important perspective of MIELI ry. It highlighted the essential connection between mental wellbeing and successful integration.

Moving to a new country and building a life in an unfamiliar environment can involve uncertainty, isolation, difficult experiences and emotional challenges. Access to support, safe spaces, community connections and opportunities to build mental resilience are therefore essential. Integration must also mean feeling well, being seen, and having the opportunity to participate in society.

Belonging is something we create together

A wonderful way to conclude the event was the session Shared Sounds, Shared Belonging. Through music and collective singing, participants experienced how something as universal as music can bring people together across languages, cultures and backgrounds.

It was a joyful and meaningful reminder that belonging is not created only through policies, programmes or formal structures. It also grows through shared experiences, human connections and the feeling of being welcomed.

Looking ahead: partnerships and shared opportunities

For Monaliiku, events like Integration 2026 are valuable not only for the knowledge they provide, but also for the opportunities they create to connect with organisations and individuals who share our commitment to equality, wellbeing and inclusion.

We are particularly interested in developing new partnerships and joint initiatives that support immigrant women and girls, strengthen their wellbeing and create more opportunities for participation, empowerment and active involvement in society.

We believe that meaningful and lasting integration requires cooperation across different sectors. By bringing together the expertise, experiences and resources of different organisations, we can create stronger initiatives and reach more people.

Two intensive, inspiring and thought-provoking days - filled with valuable discussions, new perspectives and the reminder that a society where everyone belongs is something we build together.

Thank you to the organisers, speakers and everyone we had the opportunity to meet and connect with!

by Maria Tikka