Leadership development, regional advocacy and growth-focused collaboration are the key themes in this fortnight’s Turku Chamber of Commerce digest. Read how MentorChamber participants, award-winning regional influence work and recognition for Vesa Palander are helping strengthen Southwest Finland’s business ecosystem.
MentorChamber Profile: Ainokaisa Saarinen and Mari Koskiranta
The latest MentorChamber profile features Ainokaisa Saarinen, Development Director at Telia Company and leader of the Chamber’s MentorChamber programme, together with mentee Mari Koskiranta, HR Director at Finnish Design Shop. The article highlights how structured mentoring supports leadership development, strategic thinking and organisational learning across industries.
The participants emphasise the value of confidential discussions, cross-industry learning and continuous professional development. For member companies, the programme demonstrates how regional business networks can strengthen leadership capabilities and talent development.
Full article in Finnish: https://turunkauppakamari.fi/news/mentorchamber-esittelyssa-ainokaisa-saarinen-ja-mari-koskiranta/
Award-Winning Advocacy Work from Southwest Finland
This blog discusses the advocacy work that contributed to the Chamber being recognised as Finland’s Chamber of the Year 2026. The article highlights long-term cooperation between businesses, public authorities and regional stakeholders to advance issues important to economic growth and competitiveness in Southwest Finland.
The recognition highlights how the Chamber turns member input into concrete influence. Its advocacy follows an annual plan, with ”Sustainable Growth for Southwest Finland” as the 2026 theme. In practice this has meant member surveys on competitiveness and export prospects, statements on transport investments and the proposed tourist tax, a forum on regional rail projects and visits by Parliament’s Commerce Committee to member companies.
Full article in Finnish: https://turunkauppakamari.fi/blog/palkittua-vaikuttamistyota-varsinais-suomesta/
MentorChamber Profile: Juuso Enala and Tuija Kaipia
Another MentorChamber feature presents mentor Tuija Kaipia and mentee Juuso Enala, focusing on the practical benefits of mentoring for career growth, leadership skills and professional reflection. The programme brings together experienced executives and emerging leaders from member organisations.
By fostering knowledge-sharing across companies and sectors, the initiative supports the development of talent and management expertise in Southwest Finland’s business community.
Full article in Finnish: https://turunkauppakamari.fi/news/mentorchamber-esittelyssa-juuso-enala-ja-tuija-kaipia/
Recognition for Vesa Palander, Director, Business and Economic Development Services
Vesa Palander received the Varsinaissuomalainen viestintäteko recognition from the Chamber’s Communications and Marketing Committee. The award recognises his contribution to strengthening the region’s attractiveness, sustainable growth and business environment.
The committee highlighted his work in promoting cooperation, investment attractiveness and employment initiatives, including the Gen T youth employment movement. The recognition underlines the importance of positive regional development and effective communication in supporting economic growth.
Full article in Finnish: https://turunkauppakamari.fi/news/elinvoimajohtaja-vesa-palanderille-tunnustusta/
AI-assisted translation