Workshop: Leadership for Meaningful Change

Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, Pasila Campus
Two photos next to each other, on the left Jamie Hyneman with Jenni Ahonen during a discussion and on the right two people in front of a white board explaining the writing on it to an audience

This event is by invitation only.

In this solution-oriented workshop, through discussions and facilitated small group sessions,  participants will co-create concrete and actionable strategies to engage audiences and drive change in challenging environments.

The program will feature, among others, the Foundation's Senior Advisor Jamie Hyneman. 

14:45-15:00 Arrivals  

15:00-15:15 Welcome!

15:15-15:55 Fireside Chat: Creating Meaningful Change  

  • Jamie Hyneman, CEO, M5 Industries; Senior Advisor, Fulbright Finland Foundation  
  • Interviewer: Terhi Mölsä, CEO, Fulbright Finland Foundation

15:55-16:20 Coffee Break  

16:20-17:00 Thematic Small Group Discussions

Fostering Sustainable Finland–U.S. Collaboration (3 groups)
Examples of possible angles: 

  • How to continue to strengthen the relationships and collaboration after the Fulbright Finland term?
  • How to ensure long-term, sustainable collaboration between individuals?
  • How to ensure long-term, sustainable collaboration between institutions?

Facilitators:

  • Elizabeth Hintz, Assistant Professor, University of Connecticut; 2025-26 Fulbright-Tampere University Scholar
  • Fred Markowitz, Professor, Northern Illinois University; 2021-22 Core U.S. Fulbright Scholar, University of Helsinki
  • Shelley Stephenson, Senior Advisor, Fulbright Finland Foundation

Communicating Science for Change (2 groups)
Examples of possible angles: 

  • How can researchers communicate their research to diverse audiences e.g. decision makers, media, and the general public in ways that are clear, actionable, and politically viable?
  • How to ensure constructive engagement in polarized environments?

Facilitators:

  • Alexandra Middleton, Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Oulu; 2024-26 Fulbright Arctic Initiative Research Award
  • Emma Mulhern, Research Scientist, VTT Research Center of Finland; 2021-22 Fulbright-LUT University Graduate Award

Leadership for Meaningful Change (1 group)
Examples of possible angles: 

  • How to develop skills that amplify one's leadership capacity, regardless of one's title?
  • How do we equip young scholars and professionals to step into meaningful leadership roles, especially in uncertain or politically complex environments?
  • How do we move people from caring about issues to taking constructive action?

Facilitator:

  • Elizabeth Ko, Lower School Counselor, The Summit Country Day School; 2025-26 Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching Research

Empowering Youth as Change-Makers (2 groups)
Examples of possible angles: 

  • How do we communicate about global challenges in ways that motivate and inspire action rather than overwhelm young people?
  • How to help young people apply what they know for positive change, not just learn facts?
  • How can youth be included more meaningfully in decision-making and public conversations?

Facilitators:

  • Seda Altunbay, Teacher of English, Latokartano Comprehensive School; 2023 Study of the U.S. Institute for Secondary Educators
  • Jenni Halonen, Member, Youth Climate and Energy Vision 2040; 2022 Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders from Europe

17:00-17:30 Debriefing the Small Group Discussions

17:30-19:00 Networking Event for Workshop Participants

Light buffet will be available. 

For any questions, please contact Maija Kettunen, Communications Manager ([email protected])