My name is Ulrika, I am 26 years old, and I come from Finland. I am a geographer by heart and profession, always interested to learn about new places and cultures. Since the last few years, I lived in Sweden, Austria and Czechia. I have a special passion to understand how we could create more inclusive societies and increase participation in different decision-making arenas, and especially how urban spaces could be more co-created by its people. Outside of my geographer persona, I am also interested in sustainability and learning about how to live in a better way for the planet. Meeting people to exchange thoughts and ideas about sustainable development, and co-creating some exciting projects is one of my favourite ways to spend time.
Additionally, I love to play the guitar, knit some nice new shirts, and try headstands and other yoga poses. Since one year, I am learning Turkish, because it is a nice way to learn about a new culture (and helps if you go to summer school there!). Exploring the forest, trying a new café and experimenting with kombucha-making are my current interests.
The feeling is just amazing – the wind of the sea, the excitement of sailing, and the curiosity to learn about the other people. I have never experienced such a feeling of calmness and excitement at the same time. The scenery is amazing, but the people are even better. This week gave me motivation to continue with the topics I am interested in, by seeing how others are also engaged in their interests. Everyone is so motivated in their fields, it is truly admirable.