YOUTH AMBASSADOR OF FINNISH HERITAGE AND LANGUAGE
The Finlandia Foundation Bay Area Chapter is excited to announce the second annual application period for the Youth Ambassador of Finnish Heritage and Language Award. This award recognizes a high school senior who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to promoting Finnish culture and language within the Bay Area community. Through leadership, cultural exchange, and community engagement, the recipient serves as an inspiring role model for younger generations.
If you are a high school senior passionate about Finnish heritage, or know someone who is, we invite you to apply! Please complete the following questionnaire and submit it by October 26, 2025 by email to jenni.backholm@gmail.com. You can answer questions 6 and 7 via a short written essay, an audio clip, or a short video. Language can be either Finnish or English.
Applicant Information
- Full Name:
[Enter your full name] - High School:
[Name of the high school where you are enrolled for the 2025-2026 senior year] - Date of Birth:
[MM/DD/YYYY] - Contact Information:
- Email: [Enter your email address]
- Phone (optional): [Enter your phone number]
- Current High School GPA:
[Enter your unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale]
Application Questions
- Leadership and Promoting Finnish Culture and Heritage
Describe how you have promoted Finnish culture and heritage in your everyday life. Provide specific examples, such as organizing cultural events, participating in language classes, mentoring younger students in Finnish language or traditions, or engaging in community outreach programs. - Personal Connection to Finnish Identity and Values
What does “being Finnish” mean to you? What Finnish values (e.g., respect, community, cultural appreciation) guide your efforts to promote Finnish heritage? Reflect on how your connection to Finnish heritage shapes your identity and actions.
Letters of Recommendation
- Letters of Recommendation
Please include one short letter of recommendation from an individual who can attest to your contributions to Finnish heritage and culture. This may be from teachers, community leaders, or members of Finnish organizations who has witnessed your accomplishments. The letter should be no longer than one page and include the recommender’s contact information.
Additional Notes
- Applications will be evaluated based on the award criteria:
- active involvement in promoting Finnish language and culture,
- exemplary leadership and mentorship,
- dedication to respect, cultural appreciation, and community-building.
- The Finlandia Foundation Bay Area Chapter reserves the right to verify information provided.
- The award recipient will be notified by November 2, 2025
Thank you for your commitment to Finnish heritage and for applying to be the 2026 Youth Ambassador of Finnish Heritage and Language!
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send an email to Jenni.backholm@gmail.com.
Award Title: The Youth Ambassador of Finnish Heritage and Language Award
Suomen kulttuurin ja kielen nuorisolähettiläs
Award Description:
This award is presented to a high school senior who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to promoting Finnish culture and language within the Bay Area community. Through their efforts, the recipient has not only deepened awareness of Finnish traditions, language, and heritage but also served as an inspiring role model for younger generations. Their commitment to cultural exchange, leadership, and educational outreach has fostered understanding, and appreciation for Finnish culture.
Criteria:
- Active involvement in promoting Finnish language and culture, such as organizing cultural events, language classes, or community outreach programs.
- Exemplary leadership and mentorship to younger Bay Area Finns, encouraging interest in Finnish language and heritage.
- Dedication to the values of respect, cultural appreciation, and community-building.