In a city celebrated for its clean design, green spaces, and transparent governance, the story of inclusion is still unfolding. Two women – Itzel Ruiz and Ayisat Yusuf – are stepping forward to help write its next chapter, one that ensures Helsinki reflects the vibrant diversity of its residents. Both immigrants and community leaders in their own right, Itzel and Ayisat are running for municipal office in Helsinki. Their candidacies represent more than political aspirations – they are acts of resilience, community building, and hope.
From Reluctance to Purpose
Neither Itzel nor Ayisat imagined themselves in politics. In fact, both were initially hesitant. “I hate politics,” Ayisat said candidly, “because of my experience back home.” Coming from Nigeria, she associated politics with corruption and elitism. But in Finland, she began to see it differently – as a platform for inclusion and real change.
For Itzel, originally from Mexico, the turning point came when she attended a local political event and met Fredrika Biström, a community advocate who encouraged her to consider public office. “I was hesitant,” she recalled. “But I believe inclusion is action. If we want change, we need to be part of it.”
Though their paths into public life were unexpected, both women were driven by a clear understanding of their communities’ needs – and of the gaps that urgently need addressing.
Stories that Drive Their Vision
Ayisat’s journey reads like a film script. Raised in a conservative Muslim household in Nigeria, she was forbidden from playing football – her greatest passion – because of her gender and religion. After losing her father at age eight and being separated from her mother, she defied expectations, snuck out to play, and eventually ran away to pursue her dream. A national scout discovered her talent, and she went on to play for Nigeria’s national team in multiple Women’s World Cups and the Olympics.
But her motivation extends far beyond medals. “I want to be a voice for the voiceless,” she said. Today, her mission is to ensure that no girl – in Helsinki or anywhere – is denied opportunity because of her gender, race, or background.
Itzel’s background is rooted in education and intercultural exchange. As a former English teacher, she learned to see people as individuals rather than stereotypes. Her experiences volunteering and working across continents deepened her belief in the importance of listening to local voices. Later, in roles involving intercultural management and cultural awareness training, she became committed to fostering mutual understanding. “Inclusion,” she said, “requires curiosity and patience – always asking why, rather than jumping to conclusions.”
Helsinki: Love and Longings
Both women admire Helsinki’s safety, its walkability, and its expansive green spaces. But they also point to areas where the city falls short – especially when it comes to serving young people and marginalized communities.
“Helsinki needs more youth spaces – safe, accessible, and fun,” said Ayisat. As a sports coach and mentor for migrant youth, she sees firsthand the need for affordable sports clubs and community centers where immigrant youth can find belonging, make friends, and stay engaged. “If we don’t give them places to belong, we risk losing them to the streets.”
Itzel echoed this, emphasizing the importance of stronger, interconnected communities. “There are so many amazing community leaders,” she said. “But they’re all fighting their own battles. The city needs to strengthen these communities – give them space, visibility, and real support so they can grow and help each other.”
She offered a powerful metaphor: “It’s like a forest – every small plant and insect plays a role in the ecosystem. A strong community pumps life and energy into the city.”
The Need for Inclusive Spaces
A recurring theme in their conversations is the urgent need for public services that reflect the diversity of the population – especially for immigrant women. Both women shared examples of how cultural differences are often overlooked in urban planning.
“Many Muslim women want to swim, but don’t feel comfortable in mixed-gender pools,” said Ayisat. “They need women-only times – spaces where they feel safe and respected.” Yet such options remain scarce in Helsinki, despite its growing diversity.
Itzel added that these needs are often dismissed unless someone explicitly advocates for them. “If we’re talking about equity,” she said, “we have to recognize that people start from different places. We need systems designed to serve everyone – not just the majority.”
She also shared a telling experience from a healthcare visit where her Swedish-language skills were initially brushed off. The nurse only became more helpful once reminded that Swedish is an official language in Finland. “There’s a lack of empathy,” Itzel said. “And that creates barriers that make people feel invisible.”
Barriers to Employment and Participation
Despite their qualifications and community engagement, both women highlighted the structural barriers immigrants face – especially in employment and the recognition of foreign credentials.
“I’ve been lucky,” said Itzel, who secured a job after studying in Finland. “But I’ve seen so many capable people struggle to find work. There’s a lack of long-term planning and services are often only in Finnish.”
Ayisat agreed. Language, in particular, remains a major obstacle. “Finnish is hard,” she said, laughing. “If you try too hard, the Finnish will ‘finish’ you!”
While her football career helped open doors, she knows many immigrant women don't have similar opportunities. “People have potential. But without the right support, that potential is wasted.”
A Shared Vision for Helsinki
Looking ahead, both women envision a Helsinki that is inclusive, equitable, and truly representative of its residents.
For Ayisat, this means more youth centers, safe spaces for girls, and genuine investment in immigrant communities. “We need to see more women – especially immigrant women – not just as service users, but as decision-makers.”
Itzel dreams of a Helsinki where policies are co-created with the people they affect. “Inclusion means you don’t have to change who you are to belong. We shouldn’t have to erase our identities to be accepted.”
They call for better integration strategies, long-term education initiatives, and multilingual information that allows all residents to access services. They also urge city agencies and unions to work together – to stop operating in silos and to offer inclusive training in languages beyond Finnish.
A Message to Women: Speak Up, Act Now
To young women – particularly those from marginalized backgrounds – Itzel and Ayisat offer the same advice: don’t wait.
“Talk is good, but action is more important,” said Ayisat. “If you have strength, use it. If you don’t, find someone to guide you. But don’t stay silent.”
Itzel added, “If you’re afraid, that’s okay. Find a mentor. And if you’re already confident, make sure other women know you’re there to support them.”
For both, politics isn’t about power – it’s about community, accountability, and rewriting the narrative, one voice at a time.
What They Stand For
Ayisat Yusuf is campaigning for:
- Empowerment of women and girls, especially through sports
- Better integration policies for immigrants
- Affordable and accessible youth spaces
- Stronger anti-racism efforts and equitable housing
Itzel Ruiz advocates for:
- Stronger community networks and cross-group collaboration
- Transparent, multilingual employment services
- Long-term inclusion policies for immigrants
- Implementation and awareness of Finland’s anti-discrimination laws
These women are not just running for office – they are running toward a future where Helsinki belongs to everyone.
Text and pictures: Sakthy Edamaruku