A city strategy may sound like a large and complicated plan. According to Wellbeing Coordinator Arja Väänänen, however, its core is very simple: how does everyday life work for people, and how would we like it to work?
”Every resident of Mikkeli should have the opportunity to enjoy a good, safe and smooth everyday life. Wellbeing is reflected in people’s experience of a good life, a sense of security and their ability to function in daily life,” says Väänänen.
Security is not only about physical safety. Equally important is the feeling of safety, which is built through small but meaningful actions.
”Security also comes from feeling that you belong, being treated as an equal, being able to express yourself without fear of discrimination or racism, and having access to services without unnecessary barriers,” Väänänen points out.
Active mobility promotes wellbeing
Väänänen sees one of Mikkeli’s strengths in the ease with which people can reach many destinations and services on foot or by bicycle. When schools, leisure activities, shops and workplaces are accessible through active travel, physical activity becomes a natural part of everyday life. At the same time, both physical wellbeing and everyday convenience improve.
”However, this does not happen automatically. There is still plenty of work to be done. The city’s role is to ensure that both the environment and decision-making support mobility. Routes must be maintained and developed so that walking and cycling are genuinely easy options,” says Väänänen.
Alongside everyday physical activity, Väänänen highlights the importance of culture. Library services consistently rank among the most popular municipal services. The city also provides museum services, public cultural events and cultural education.
”Events, hobbies and shared experiences strengthen vitality and reinforce the feeling that Mikkeli is a good and diverse place to live.”
Giving children and young people a voice
According to Väänänen, it is important that children and young people are not only users of services but also involved in developing them.
When a young person realises that their opinion matters, they gain a sense of participation and belonging. At the same time, their sense of self-worth and place within the community is strengthened.
”Confidence in the future is often built through small things. Through someone listening, caring and involving you. Many of the challenges faced by young people can ultimately be addressed through early support and a caring presence,” says Väänänen.
”When children and young people thrive, the benefits extend to the whole community. Young people who are doing well feel a stronger connection to their home city and are more likely to see their future as part of it.”
Everyone belongs in Mikkeli
A thriving city is also an equal city. Every resident of Mikkeli should have their voice heard. In practice, this sometimes requires paying particular attention to groups whose perspectives are too often overlooked.
”When Mikkeli’s Equality and Non-Discrimination Programme was being prepared, the most valuable ideas came directly from representatives of minority groups. They know best what is needed in everyday life and where we can do better,” Väänänen explains.
Sometimes the most important actions are small ones. When everyday life works well, people thrive. And when people thrive, Mikkeli thrives too.