What a memorable milestone to be part of, the 20th anniversary of Hanken Dagen and the 20-year celebration of Hanken School of Economics & Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) collaboration in Helsinki.
As an alumna and former Hanken staff member, this event was more than a professional engagement, it was a homecoming filled with meaningful encounters, pride, and reflection on how education continues to shape leaders for a global world.
A Conversation on Internationalization and Leadership
I had the honor of moderating a lively panel discussion featuring:
- Magnus (based in Sweden)
- Kaj (based in Finland)
- Mari (based in the Netherlands)
Together, we explored the theme of internationalization and navigating a changing world.
The discussion invited participants to stay curious, lead with values, and embrace cross-cultural competencies as a core leadership skill. In times of uncertainty, understanding diverse perspectives and connecting across cultures has become not just beneficial, but essential.
My gratitude to Mari, Markus, and Kaj for an engaging, human-centered conversation, and to the audience for your openness and energy.
One message stood out clearly: universities hold the power (and responsibility) to enable future-proof leaders.
Alumni networks like Hanken’s play a vital role in bridging knowledge from classrooms to boardrooms, helping leaders translate theory into practice and values into action.
This interconnectedness of academia, alumni, and society reminds us that the purpose of education is not only to excel but to contribute, to lead in a way that uplifts others.
A Personal Homecoming
This event also carried deep personal meaning. I met familiar faces, colleagues such as Nikoline Stenman-Möller, alumni I’ve collaborated with, and even former students from the HankenHIT program I once managed.
One student, now leading their own career, came up to thank me, a full-circle moment that beautifully captured the long-term impact of mentorship and opportunity.
It was a pleasure to meet Ingmar Björkman, Hanken’s Rector; Anders Adlercreutz, Minister of Education; Mari Tasanto, D.Sc.(Admin); Camilla Wardi, now at Aalto University; and Marc Hinnenberg.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a true Hanken celebration without some traditional Swedish alumni singing moments, heartfelt, nostalgic, and full of pride.
As I reflected on the day, a common thread emerged, the importance of being door openers.
Whether at the Nordic Women in Tech Awards (NWiTA) or at Hanken Dagen, both events embodied the same essence: community, legacy, and courage.
The courage to open doors for others.
To lift as we climb.
To keep Finland (and the Nordics) open, global, and deeply human.
Gratitude
A huge thanks to Mira, Judith, Marlene, and the entire Hanken & SSE team for creating such a trust-filled and collaborative atmosphere.
Special appreciation to Robert Ingman and Lotta Backlund for their sharp humor and seamless hosting, and to alumna Jennifer and her piano partner for a flawless performance that made the evening truly unforgettable.
Here’s to 20 years of knowledge, connection, and leadership, and to the next 20 years of shaping a world where internationalization and inclusion walk hand in hand.
