Written by Nia Sullivan
Since 1975, International Women’s Day has emphasized women’s accomplishments while highlighting profound inequalities in contemporary societies. As the world observes Women’s History Month 2022, I am led to reflect on my experience as an intern for Think Africa’s Virtual Break with Entrepreneurial Ladies (2021) and the inspiring leaders I had the opportunity to engage with. In this blog, I highlight the initiatives and brilliance of women leaders who convey social influence in Finland. Join me in celebrating the power and efforts of entrepreneurs Halla and Thanida.
This Entrepreneurial Spotlight highlights two remarkable innovators, Halla Hänninen and Thanida Dharmajiva, who offer significant industries to Finnish society. Halla is a founder of Yhdenvertiastaja – she is a diversity and inclusion consultant and personal trainer. Thanida is the founder of Finclass, a Thai company that assists Universities and guides Thai students who pursue higher education in Finland. Halla and Thanida participated in Think Africa’s Entrepreneurial Program as speakers, who provided their learnings and discernment on issues pertaining to entrepreneurship.
Both Halla and Thanida share a common purpose in their work — championing diversity in their respective fields. Their initiatives facilitate collaboration with international communities in Finland, and advance awareness and education. Halla and Thanida offer insightful guidance and reflections for entrepreneurial-minded individuals.
The following discussion explores Halla and Thanida’s professions and entrepreneurial journeys, which have led to a sense of freedom and purpose.
What does being entrepreneurial mean to you?
Halla: Entrepreneurship symbolizes autonomy and the opportunity to pursue specific interests and goals. Halla describes her “values aligning with [her] personal values.” While Halla finds collaboration necessary, decision-making can be challenging as several voices are involved [when working in companies]. Halla’s vision and goals are unique from others, and being an entrepreneur offers her the flexibility to execute tasks and concepts in her way.
Thanida: “If I have ideas, why not try to make it my own through my initiative.”
Self-development is a notable theme in Thanida’s entrepreneurial journey. Being an entrepreneur allows Thanida to push herself to take action and execute her passions while learning new things. Thanida describes contentment from noticing her self-growth and evolving into a better version of herself through independence.
Any regulatory hurdles you overcame? How?
Halla: Making the first step by launching a solo business venture was the first and most essential hurdle Halla has undergone.
“If they can be successful, what’s stopping me?”
Halla realized that success is attainable when examining other entrepreneurs, even as imperfections persist. Considering her accumulated knowledge acquired from previous work, Halla concluded that “nothing is lacking! Information is always available, and I am capable.” Halla describes the beginning stages shared by several entrepreneurs who are “thinking about starting for so long because they label themselves as ‘not ready, you’re never ready!”
Thanida: After graduation, Thanida found it beneficial to work as an employee as she learned how processes worked and discovered her professional interest. Through working hard for her employer’s endeavors, Thanida realized that she could successfully execute her ideas. The first limitation was knowing where to start and what to begin with. Understanding where to direct her focus and comprehending the necessary paperwork was the first hurdle Thanida overcame when creating FinnClass. While developing FinnClass, which is unlike many organizations, Thanida had to build relationships with students and academic institutions despite encountering some universities’ initial lack of interest. Through consistent, friendly communication and networking, Thanida found victory in establishing and sustaining relationships.
Any difficulties and/or solutions regarding paperwork/processes?
Halla and Thanida shared challenges in the beginning phases, particularly registering their companies and accounting. Both discovered solutions for funding, which is a familiar challenge for many entrepreneurs. Halla advises entrepreneurs to inquire about funding via the government, which may offer stability and resources. Thanida recommends exploring accounting programs, especially for businesses that use various currencies. In addition, Halla notes that it may be beneficial to enroll in business courses made available through the government and unemployment office.
What has kept you going?
Halla and Thanida explain that the motivation to ‘keep going’ applies to multiple aspects of life. Understanding your interest, meaning, and purpose is vital — they allow you to concentrate on happiness and engage with prospects that make you happy. Further, visualizing your dreams will assist you in uncovering the next step. It’s easy to forget why you began; therefore, it is substantial to concentrate on your goals and reiterate your reasons for starting.
“There are days when I feel unsure, but regardless of whether I work for myself or a company, problems will always be there. It helps to find like-minded people and talk honestly.” (Halla)
“My stubbornness keeps me going! The only person who can change my mind is me. It’s essential to listen to your gut over outside opinions and the fears of others.” (Thanida)
Are you looking for any partners?
Halla: “Yes! I’m doing many projects with a colleague (solo entrepreneur), talking to municipalities to collaborate. Always trying to find like-minded people. How can we help one another?”
Thanida: “Yes, I’m looking for student support people to do freelance jobs! My goal is to create a company that offers diversity.”
Covid prevents a considerable amount of students from studying in Finland. Thanida hopes to help create communities for Thai students, especially helping in socializing, accommodation, and life in Finland.
As the world celebrates women, it is essential to share women entrepreneurs’ insights and lessons that we can apply to our own lives. Thanida and Halla’s endeavors contribute to a diverse and accepting community by striving to create opportunities for people to share their views, ideas, and perspectives. Much of their work is accomplished through collaborative efforts and various initiatives and events that help others and raise diversity awareness.
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Nia Sullivan is an activism and communications trainee with Amnesty International (Finland) and a Master’s student at Åbo Akademi, studying social exclusion and gender studies.
