Ira Matilainen believes that engaging with diverse stories builds foundation for meaningful encounters

What do you do in your work? 

I serve as the Communications and Marketing Manager at the School of Electrical Engineering. I am responsible for developing and implementing the School’s communications and marketing services in line with Aalto’s shared communications objectives, in close collaboration with the other members of the communications team. 

What acts of inclusion do you do in your work? 

Inclusivity is integral to everything we do in communications. We always consider who the message is for and how best to reach them. With communication, we also have the power to shape perceptions – for example, about what kinds of people work or study in certain fields. Beyond reflecting in my work on the stories we tell people, I want to look after my own curiosity and the perspectives I’m exposing myself to. I try to challenge myself not to consume only content from people who are similar to me and agree with me on everything. In this era of aggressive social media algorithms and polarisation, I feel the world especially needs more humanity and compassion. 

Listening to diverse people and being exposed to varied stories and viewpoints builds a strong foundation for everyday empathy and consideration. Curiosity about difference, a genuine desire to understand, and the capacity for empathy create better conditions for meaningful encounters, and naturally also strengthen the sense of community.