International expert is a term that doesn’t tell a whole lot about a person. Even as one of them, it is challenging to see across the vast diversity that is present within the group. My own experiences are unique, and vastly different in a whole number of ways from any other.
From the perspective of TEK, this presents a challenge. How to best serve a group so diverse, a group with such a variation of needs, backgrounds, and experiences in Finland?
Our services are almost equally in English, often with more than just a translation of what Finnish members receive. We recruit and help an ever-growing percentage of international students, as well as working to better reach those in employment. Through bilingual or English communication, we ensure that our members are more able to follow what we are doing.
In my work, I take part and lead projects that aim to connect international members with TEK and with Finland, the first such time TEK has had this position. This includes for example working to improve the international student experience, providing both the ability and the desire to stay in Finland after graduation. My voice is also a part of how TEK reacts to topical issues facing our international members, such as the recent 3-/6-month rule proposal.
There is, however, still a long way to go. Our international members need more help with building communities and connections, and in learning the language to a working level. They need more events in English, and ways to feel more connected to our legal advice to avoid exploitation.
Fundamentally, Finland is still a country with an inclusion problem. That was shown all too well by our Survey of International Experts earlier this year. Our members need us to be better at representing them, need us to make Finland a place for them and their expertise, rather than one of discrimination.
Some would say all of that is too much expectation. I believe it is simply what we owe to them as a union.
Some things to look forward to?
I am already excited for what next year will bring to TEK and our international members. There are a number of things already planned, both in terms of our services and our advocacy.
As a member, make sure to follow our newsletter and social media channels to be the first to hear about new events and services. You can edit your newsletter subscriptions at OmaTEK.
For the rest of the week, you will be able to follow what we are doing on our Instagram and LinkedIn accounts. On Friday, look out for another announcement I am excited about!
