How does FIKA work?

FIKA mentoring programme connects a mentee with a mentor who feels established in Finland and the Swedish-speaking community.The program aims to create a supportive space for participants to strengthen their sense of belonging and feel more connected to their new community.Through conversations and shared activities, mentees can improve their Swedish language skills, build social connections, and learn more about Finnish culture, society and everyday life.

As a future mentee, you need to be motivated and interested in meeting new people and building meaningful connections. You should have a residence permit and be open to learning, sharing experiences, and setting personal goals for what you would like to gain from the programme. Since the programme focuses on Swedish integration, participants who are looking to practice Swedish language need to have at least A2 level in Swedish.

As a future mentor, you should be interested in supporting someone in their integration journey and helping them become more connected to the Swedish-speaking community in Finland. No special experience is required,  only an open mind, commitment, and interest in getting to know a new person.

Both mentors and mentees need to commit to participating for 6 months and meeting around 3 times per month.

A mentor period lasts 6 months from the first meeting. During this time you will meet your mentor/mentee around 3 times per month.

As a mentee, you receive personal support and guidance from someone who cares and wants to help you feel more connected to life in Finland. Through regular meetings, you can:

• Practice and improve your Swedish language skills in a natural way
• Expand your social network and build meaningful connections
• Learn more about Finnish culture, traditions, and the Swedish-speaking community
• Ask questions about studies, careers, job searching, and working life in Finland
• Gain practical advice and support for everyday life and integration
• Participate in activities and explore events, places, and communities together

As a mentor, you support someone on their integration journey while sharing your experiences and helping create a welcoming environment. You can support your mentee through conversations, encouragement, practical guidance, and shared experiences.

Being a mentor is also an opportunity to strengthen communication skills, broaden your own perspectives, meet new people, and learn about different cultures and experiences.

No. It is a FIKA coordinator who pairs the mentor and mentee based on the mentee’s needs and requirements, and on the mentor’s resources.

Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that everyone who applies will receive a mentor or mentee, as matching depends on the availability of suitable participants.

First, you will be invited to an interview where we will tell you more about the programme and get to know you better so we can find a suitable match.

Before meeting your mentor or mentee, participants who are being matched will take part in a training session to prepare for the mentoring journey. After the training session, the mentor pairs meet at a kick-off event at Luckan or online, where a coordinator provides information and answers questions.

Together, mentor pairs agree on their goals and plan how they want to meet. Meetings can include conversations, practicing Swedish, discussing career-related topics, attending events, or doing activities together to learn more about Finnish culture and the Swedish-speaking community. Luckan supports all pairs throughout the programme.

At the end of the programme, a closing event is arranged and both mentors and mentees can receive a participation certificate.

Participation in the program is FREE of charge.

Yes. Mentor periods can take place entirely online or in a hybrid format, depending on the preferences and needs of the mentor pair.