I am Mari Holopainen, and I am running for re-election to the Helsinki City Council. I am a university lecturer and researcher in business and organization studies at Aalto University, and a mother of two school-aged children. I have previously served as a Member of Parliament and have been a city councilor for four terms.

Read more about what I stand for.

The most important goal for me is to create a sustainable future and opportunities for everyone. I have long worked for schools and early childhood education and hope to continue this work. I believe that more free leisure activities should be offered to all children and young people. Helsinki should better protect its nearby nature from construction and invest in interesting architecture.

Helsinki is an open, international, and great city, but there is still much to develop. On my initiative, a library was established in Kalasatama, a winter swimming spot is being created in Jätkäsaari, and previously, the open art event Helsinki Biennial was launched. I work boldly, get things done, and know how to make an impact. Welcome aboard!

Election promise

  1. A more supportive and equal life – I have worked for a long time in support of early childhood education and schooling to ensure that every child has equal opportunities to learn and succeed. I promise to continue this work. Helsinki must offer more free recreational opportunities to all children and young people. More investment is needed in education and culture, starting from early childhood education, group sizes must be reduced, and children must have room to learn without excessive centralization of spaces. We must address loneliness more effectively, and social and healthcare services must be improved.
  2. A more sustainable future – Helsinki must be a leader in sustainable economy. Sustainability can only be achieved within the boundaries of nature, and this is also visible locally. Helsinki is an open, international, and future-oriented city that values its history and does not destroy its local nature or the distinctiveness of its neighborhoods. More interesting architecture, more sustainable construction, culture, and university cooperation will make the city more attractive.
  3. Evidence-based decisions – I work based on researched information and by listening to residents. Sustainable solutions are born through knowledge, transparency, and involving residents. I will continue to listen and investigate the wishes of different neighborhoods in Helsinki and make initiatives in collaboration with residents. For example, at my initiative, we established a library in Kalasatama, a winter swimming spot is coming to Jätkäsaari, and earlier we launched the open visual arts event, Helsinki Biennial. From experience, I know when and how to make an impact. By voting, you will bring an effective and bold advocate to the city council.