Thematic sessions of the International South Karelia Network are launching

In South Karelia, internationalization and the settlement of international talents are supported through the International House South Karelia model. These activities are coordinated by the South Karelia Employment Area together with many stakeholders in the network. 

In April 2026, the International South Karelia Network will begin its thematic sessions. The sessions offer up-to-date information on internationalization, and the factors strengthening the attractiveness of the region and supporting settlement and integration. Sessions are open to anyone interested in one or more themes, and participants can also suggest topics in advance. Although the sessions are aimed especially at stakeholders, they are open to anyone working with these themes or wanting to learn more about them.

A wide network of stakeholders including municipalities, educational institutions, employers, government agencies, and the third sector forms a cohesive whole. Knowing this network makes it easier to understand the field and to guide international talents.

– Our goal is that international talents who move here can quickly find the networks and services that suit them best and start building their lives in our shared home in South Karelia, says Anita Pölönen from the South Karelia Employment Area, who coordinates the network.

Upcoming themed Teams-sessions (Spring–Fall 2026)

• April 9, 2026, 14.30-15.30
  International entrepreneurship and recruiting talent – Session Chair: Hanna Anttonen, City of Lappeenranta Business Services

• May 7, 2026, 14.30-15.30
  Business trends and skill needs across industries in South Karelia – Session Chair: Kari Hakola, Economic Development Centre

• June 4, 2026, 14.30-15.30
  Integration program and services supporting integration in South Karelia – Session Chair: Milja Littow, South Karelia Employment Area

• August 13, 2026, 14.30-15.30
  At home in South Karelia – third sector activities enriching everyday life – Session Chair: Sanna Peronmaa, Community Center (Yhteisötalo)

• September 15, 2026, 14.30-15.30
  The current situation and topical issues for international students – Session Chair: Mays Sweidan, LUT & LAB Career Services

First thematic session April 9, 2026: Recruitment and Entrepreneurship from an International Perspective

International Recruitment

Ksenia Ravattinen, Marketing and Communications Manager, Laitex Oy

A local company shares concrete experiences in recruiting international talents and offers practical tips on how to support both companies and professionals during the recruitment process.

International entrepreneurship

Antti Tuomaala, Specialist, Lappeenranta City Business Services

This presentation will explore insights related to international professionals starting a business: what specific issues arise in the early stages, what should be considered when supporting the entrepreneurial journey, and how we can promote the creation of new businesses in the region.

Registration link below.

Join us!

At network meetings, we encourage participants to use clear, plain language in Finnish and to provide an English summary of presentation materials so that those learning Finnish can also participate. English presentations are also welcome.

The events will not be recorded. Any presentation materials will be added to the Elinvoimaa Etelä-Karjalaan ecosystem’s Teams channel. Participate on developing the content and themes:

Suggestions for the thematic contents: for the session chair (mentioned above)
Suggestions for the new themes: for the network coordinator Anita Pölönen

Mark the dates on your calendar and register to participate no later than two (2) workdays before the event:

Kansainvälinen Etelä-Karjala -verkosto (forms.office.com) (in Finnish)

More information:

Anita Pölönen, Specialist in Internationality, South Karelia Employment Area
Email: anita.polonen@lappeenranta.fi

Attached the Network flyer: IH 2026 Kansainvälinen Etelä-Karjala kv-verkosto esite FI.pdf