Ilona Hirvonen
Ilona Hirvonen is a candidate for the SAMOK board for 2025.
Ilona is from Helga, the student union of Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, and has served this year as chair of Helga’s board.
Why are you running for the SAMOK’s Board?
I am applying for SAMOK’s board because I want to influence equal opportunities, well-being, and a flexible academic experience for students in university of applied sciences. My goal is to improve the integration of international students and to develop higher education funding that benefits students.
The responsibilities and combinations of responsibilities on the SAMOK Board vary from year to year. Which areas of responsibility are of primary interest to you? And what are your secondary interests? Please explain.
My primary interests lie in education policy and internationalization, as these areas align closely with my experience and my ambition to enhance the student educational experience. Secondarily, I am focused on social policy, particularly in improving student well-being and livelihood.
What kind of networks do you have and what kind of networker are you?
I have cultivated networks within the student union sector, the trade union movement, the business community, as well as with university leadership and local politicians. I view these networks as valuable assets for advancing shared objectives and fostering impactful collaboration.
What kind of political lobbying experience do you have? For example, experience in lobbying.
At Haaga-Helia, I have persistently worked to influence the attendance reform to better accommodate the diverse backgrounds of students. I have also met with decision-makers in the Helsinki metropolitan area and actively made statements and given feedback this year. Locally, I have lobbied a company with a monopoly, encouraging them to better consider students and take responsibility for their societal obligations.
What kind of leadership experience do you have and what kind of leader do you aspire to be?
I have developed my leadership experience through positions in associations and student union, supported by supervisory positions in the workplace. I have always valued collaboration and a discussion-driven leadership style. I strongly believe in solution-oriented approaches and the importance of teamwork, a mindset shaped by my background in synchronized skating. My goal is to create a shared sense of purpose and foster a positive, inclusive atmosphere.
Tell us why you should be elected to the SAMOK Board.
I am committed to influence work the well-being and equality of students nationwide as a member of SAMOK’s board.
What else would you like to tell us?
The SAMOK of the future must be an even stronger advocate, ensuring that the voice of students is heard in decision-making at all levels. Student unions must be provided with more effective tools for advocacy so that together we can build a more impactful representation of student interests. A shared sense of purpose helps us focus on advancing the welfare of students. SAMOK’s role as the voice of students is more important than ever in the current societal context, and we must continuously strengthen this position.
Before joining the student union, I was actively involved in Haaga-Helia’s associations focusing on solution-oriented approaches and developing actions. Student advocacy has always been at the core of my work, and I constantly strive to improve student well-being and inclusion.
Contact info:
Instagram: ilona_hirvonen, helga_hki
Email: [email protected]