International House South Karelia newsletter 10/2026- Finnish language for working life
Welcome to read the final International House South Karelia newsletter of the year.
In this newsletter, you will find information on how to stay connected with us and the local community during the remainder of the year, as well as tips on how to keep up to date through our communication channels. The newsletter is intended for international residents who have moved to the region, as well as for partners and stakeholders who support integration and settling in the region.
Anita’s greetings
Anita Pölönen worked as Senior Specialist in Internationality for the South Karelia Employment Area until the end of September 2026 and was one of the key initiators behind the establishment of the International House South Karelia. Anita’s greetings to our newsletter readers:
“It has been a privilege to be part of the journey of International House South Karelia from the beginning. As it is time for me to move on to a new season, there is one thing I will carry with me from these years: the people.
Since the very beginning, I have been inspired by the kindness, generosity, and commitment of people in South Karelia, from all around the world. Together, we have built networks, created new opportunities for connection, and supported internationals in finding their own unique paths in our region. I am confident this important work will continue to grow through the dedication of so many people and organisations. The faces may change, but the shared goal remains the same: making South Karelia a welcoming place where everyone can belong and contribute. Thank you to everyone I have had the pleasure of working with. It has been an honour to be part of this journey.”
Upcoming events
Welcome to Lappeenranta
11.11.2026 | 16:30 –18:00 | Free of charge | South Karelia Museum
This event is designed for new residents and provides essential information about the first steps of settling in the region. The event will be held in English. This is the third event during the fall season in the "Welcome to Lappeenranta" series. The theme of this session is the history and culture of Lappeenranta. Read more about the event and register via the South Karelia event calendar:
International House South Karelia Pop-up-guidance
3.11.2026 and 1.12.2026 | 12:00–14:00 | Free of charge | LUT/LAB campus
Do you need help with practical matters related to living in Finland? Drop by the International House South Karelia Pop-up guidance and ask advice or service guidance for example on housing, official matters or something else you want to know of your local area or community.
Spouse Networking
Have you moved to Lappeenranta or elsewhere in South Karelia as a spouse because your partner came here for work or studies? Join our Spouse Network! The meetings are held in English, and they are free of charge.
- Spouse Network registration form (webrobol.com) (in English)
Sammonlahti Pop-up-guidance
10.11.2026 and 8.12.2026 | 11.00–14.00 | Free of charge | Sammontori community space
Welcome to the multilingual guidance and counselling service that can help you with a wide range of everyday problems and questions. We offer guidance and counselling for people who have moved from other countries in several different languages relating to settling and living in Finland.
International House Living Room
17.11.2026 | 18.00-20.00 | Free of charge | Community House
International House Living Room offers an opportunity to connect with the local international and internationally minded community in a relaxed environment. The aim is to foster a place for community dialogue, based on experiences about life in Lappeenranta and South Karelia.
Voice of the network
Finnish for Working Life: Online intensive course
Would you like to improve your Finnish language skills and strengthen your readiness for working life in Finland? This free intensive course, 2.11.-23.11.2026 online, focuses on Finnish language skills needed for job seeking and the workplace. Participants will also learn about Finnish work culture and common workplace practices. The course is intended for immigrant women who do not have an integration plan. Participants are expected to have a Finnish language proficiency level of A1.3 and basic skills. More information about the course and registration:
Ekko seeks talented people
International EKKO seeks talented people EKKO is a vibrant, international and multilingual adult education centre! We offer courses in 13 languages, including Finnish from beginner to advanced level. Many of our teachers come from around the world. Do you have a special skill you’d like to teach others? We’re planning next year’s courses soon and welcome your ideas! Find out more:
Stay connected!
Website: International House South Karelia - Lappeenranta.fi
Facebook: International House South Karelia
Instagram: @internationalsouthkarelia
Email: internationalhouse@lappeenranta.fi
Subscribe to our newsletter: Lappeenrannan kaupunki tiedotetilaus (epressi.com)
Do you want to share your event, course, or service with internationals in South Karelia? We shall continue publishing the newsletter also next year. Editorial deadlines and new template to send material shall be communicated in January 2027.
The International House operating model is part of the South Karelia Employment Area's services. Information for personal customers, employers and entrepreneurs is available on the website: