Puijola Brothers

Puijola Brothers is a new approach to working with men in North Savo, supporting the wellbeing, participation and integration of men who have moved to Finland and their families. It aims to strengthen men’s active role in their families and communities, challenge harmful gender norms and discriminatory practices, and promote gender equality, a sense of community and integration as a two-way process. Accessible group activities, fathers’ groups and mentoring are at the heart of the project.

The project works closely with public authorities responsible for integration, the wellbeing services county and other local organisations. Activities take place in Kuopio, Varkaus, Leppävirta and Siilinjärvi. The project is funded by the European Union’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF), with additional support from the City of Kuopio’s Mieliteko Fund.

Elisa Hämäläinen
Coordinator
elisa.hamalainen@puijola.net
Tel. +358 50 362 4103

Charlis Anderia
Community Instructor
charlis.anderia@puijola.net
Tel. +358 50 514 6908

Group activities and fathers’ groups

Shared activities are an important part of our groups, giving participants opportunities to enjoy hobbies, try new things and discuss topics related to wellbeing with peers. The groups offer a safe and confidential space to talk and share thoughts. Activities take place at Setlementti Puijola’s Kompassi centre and other venues.

Our dedicated fathers’ groups strengthen fathers’ role in supporting their families’ wellbeing. Topics include parenting, raising children, family dynamics and shared responsibilities. We also occasionally organise events where children can join in.

View the group activities calendar here

Charlis Anderia
Community Instructor
charlis.anderia@puijola.net
Tel. +358 50 514 6908

Mentoring and individual support

Mentoring offers personal, practical support at different stages of integration. This may include help with finding hobbies, employment or a place to study, practising Finnish, or accessing and using services. The aim is to help men who have moved to Finland find their place in the community, build social networks and strengthen their trust in the society around them.

During the project, Finnish men are trained as mentors to provide support and walk alongside men who have moved to Finland. If you are interested in becoming a mentor or would like to learn more, please get in touch with the project coordinator.

Elisa Hämäläinen
Coordinator
elisa.hamalainen@puijola.net
Tel. +358 50 362 4103

More about the project

Puijola Brothers – Building Participation and Belonging is a new approach to working with men in North Savo, supporting the wellbeing, participation and integration of men who have moved to Finland and their families. The project is funded by the European Union’s Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF), with additional support from the City of Kuopio’s Mieliteko Fund.