People are the foundation of all cross-border cooperation. Interreg Aurora is happy to present the people and different professions working across borders with the aim to improve our daily lives.
Meet Helene Ajuna Olsen, Communication advisor at the Saami Council
I am from Olmmáivággi on the Norwegian side of Sápmi, currently living in Romsa. I have a bachelor’s degree in religion, politics, and society and a master’s degree in European studies. My studies have given a special insight and understanding into today’s multicultural societies, and how to navigate and communicate across different cultures and societies, which I believe is important for working in cross-border projects. Sápmi and Sámi issues have always been present in my work.
Communication ensures people understand the importance of your project
I am responsible for communication within the Interreg Aurora funded project ReCap ASáp that aims to strengthen the Sámi civil society. Project activities are directly targeting Sámi organisations and institutions. Therefore, it is important to have good and open communication. This includes having a two-way communication that ensures that the Sámi communities are informed about the project and how to participate in the project activities. At the same time, it is important to ensure that the Sámi communities can let us know their needs and how we might be able to help strengthen their positions.
Participants from course with Sami NGO:s
In my day-to-day work I follow up on the project activities, whether that is announcing sign-ups and inviting people to participate, sharing photos from events, or disseminating the results of the activities afterwards. I also assist in organising activities, such as by brainstorming who can hold a workshop, booking venues or accommodations, or even help with leading meetings. In a smaller project group, it is necessary to be able and prepared to do a variety of things that might be outside of your regular job-description. This is exciting as it allows you to push yourself out of your comfort zones.
Strengthening the Sámi society and culture
Sápmi is naturally a cross-border region, and having opportunities to work together across the national borders is something incredibly important to continue to foster our own bonds and connections. One of the best things about working in an Interreg project is the multitude of perspectives that are represented in a small working group that naturally comes from cross-border work. Even things that sometimes can be a challenge, such as language and having to communicate daily in a language that is not your first language, also helps to broaden your own understanding. Sápmi and Sámi issues are close to my heart, and it is a wonderful opportunity to work with ensuring that the Sámi people have the tools to continue strengthening our society and culture.
Welcome to Lávdan Sámi Arena in Guovdageaidnu
Me and the project team are happy and excited to be able to invite Sámi society to a unique week (10-15 June 2025) dedicated especially for the Sámi society. It is an arena where Sápmi is centre-stage, and with discussions happening on Sámi society’s premises. We are awaiting a wide range of activities taking place, exciting discussions, and not to mention the community gathering for, what we hope, will be a great celebration as well!
Learn more about the project ReCap ASáp – Regaining capacity in a changing Sápmi and the project partners:
– Nordiska Samerådet
– Saami Council Headquarters
– Suoma Sámiid Guovddášsearvi ry
#InterregAurora #CrossborderCooperation #PeopleandBeyond #ReCapASap
The ReCap ASáp project team
