JCI Cosmopolis formed to prepare for the challenges
"Cosmopolis" is a working name for a group of internationally minded people (Finns and foreigners) who signed the letter of intent to form the first international, English speaking JCI chapter in Finland on 1. October 2008. The mission of the new chapter is to offer best in class opportunities for members to develop leadership skills, entrepreneurship, social responsibility and fellowship in multicultural business environment. Members of the chapter are aimed to be highly motivated professionals with various cultural backgrounds in a suitable mix, forming an excellent platform for fulfilling the mission.
JCI (Junior Chamber International) is worldwide network of nearly a quarter of a million members – young leaders in their 20s and 30s – in over one hundred countries and territories."It has always been a good career choice in Finland to develop skills in international business, but I'm still surprised about the fact how international Helsinki has actually become last years. For me, JCI Cosmopolis will be an excellent forum between young professionals for exchanging ideas and experiences about leadership in multicultural environments and a learning platform for future business leaders in a global economy.”- said Niklas Enkvist, chair of creation committee.
Through various local, national and international projects and events, JCI members meet, learn and grow. JCI uses the slogan “Be Better TM” to communicate what the organization helps members achieve: to be better – better leaders, better managers, better professionals, better citizens, better business owners, better politicians, better parents, better spouses, better brothers, better sisters, and better in whatever role in life we play.
JCI is also very strong and popular in Finland with over 2500 active members. Nevertheless, there was little opportunity for professionals to learn, network and take action in an international environment and use English language in Finland. That is expected to change with the foundation of JCI Cosmopolis which will operate in Helsinki region.
„It is difficult to integrate into business life, network and find development opportunities when you are a foreigner and don’t speak Finnish. JCI Cosmopolis will aim to provide these for us in the future!” – said Peter Gyetvai, marketing professional and member of the creation committee living in Helsinki since April 2008.
The formulation ceremony was combined with a „Start training” providing good overview of the association and what it can offer to members with hands-on examples. It aimed to help newcomers to plan their JCI careers, set up expectations to it and ask questions about JCI and its activities.„We have already attracted fantastic personalities and enjoy networking in such a diverse milieu.” – added Malgorzata Jargan, export manager in a financial software branch, working in Finland for 5 years.
Signing the letter of intent was the first major step in the formulation process and will be followed by the official application to the National Board of Patents and Registration of Finland. The creation committee aims for arranging the foundation process quickly, so that JCI Cosmopolis can officially start operating as soon as possible."Continuous learning, exchanging ideas, practicing new skills and meeting internationally minded people will be easier. Now I am looking forward to getting JCI Cosmopolis in the next gear with all the members offering project ideas and getting involved in initiatives that will make a difference in their professional life and community." – commented Peggy Torres, project manager working in telecommunication company and in Finland since 2000.
If you would like more information about JCI Cosmopolis, please call Niklas Enkvist (040-588-2988) or e-mail ([email protected]).