As Finns living overseas, our identity is a delicate dance between the past and present, a symphony that resonates with the echoes of our homeland while embracing the richness of foreign lands.

The Finnish term “ulkosuomalaiset” encapsulates those of us born in Finland but living overseas, each of us sharing a common thread despite our worldwide scattering.

Returning to Finland, whether after years or mere months away, is a heartfelt experience. Vantaa airport becomes a heartbeat, a rhythmic reunion with memories, culture, and the very essence of being Finnish. The native tongue, once a daily melody, now carries the weight of nostalgia that stirs our souls.

In Helsinki, the cityscape narrates tales of our youth, and even the aisles of local supermarkets become extraordinary as they connect us to the mundane yet magical aspects of our past. Yet, amidst the joy, a bittersweet undertone lingers, acknowledging the variance of our lives, the weaving into foreign fabrics, and the adaptation to diverse cultures.

Being a Finn overseas, means navigating the intricate dance between roots and wings. We’ve grown, evolved, and embraced the richness that comes with living beyond our homeland. Our love for adopted countries, friendships, and diverse experiences is profound, but a part of us always yearns for the simplicity of lakeside saunas, the aroma of pulla, and the mesmerising northern lights.

This identity is a harmonious blend of origin and existence, forever tethering us to the land of a thousand lakes. As we continue this beautiful dance, we find solace in the echoes of our past and the symphony of our present, embracing the complexity that defines us as “Finlanders Beyond”.