Imagine a city council where decisions are made by listening to, understanding, and respecting one another—not by shouting and pitting people against each other. How many of you want to support this kind of culture of cooperation? I ask this because I believe that the most important tools for influence in politics are the ability to listen, the skill to reason, the effort to understand, the willingness to trust, and, above all, respect. Without these, cooperation can be quite challenging.
Below is my speech from my first campaign kickoff event at Oulunsuun Pirtti on January 31, 2025
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
My name is Johanna Karjula, and I am here to ask for your support in the upcoming municipal elections. I began my political career a little over 20 years ago, when Juhani Heikkinen walked up to the counter at my flower shop with a candidate nomination form. Jussi promised that even a newbie could learn the ropes, as long as I dared to take the first step. I didn’t know back then what kind of journey awaited me—but one thing is certain: without the wonderful mentors who believed in me, I wouldn’t be here today. Politics isn’t a solo endeavor; it’s a shared space for growth. I’ve been allowed to make mistakes, succeed, and above all, learn—and that’s exactly why I believe that by working together, we can build a better future.
What drives a person to get involved in politics? For me, the answer has always been clear: the desire to make a difference and to speak up on behalf of those who cannot do so themselves. For me, politics isn’t just about meetings and paperwork—it’s an opportunity to make a difference, improve people’s daily lives, and leave the city in better shape for future generations than we found it ourselves.
When I asked my sister’s children what a politician should be like, I got answers that every decision-maker should hear. Ronja said, “A politician has to help others. It’s important to stick to your own values and be able to think about what’s necessary and useful. People should talk to each other kindly and respectfully. Inka added that yelling and using bad language hurt people, and we should try to speak in a pleasant and fun way. Yes—humor is needed in politics, too. The children emphasized how important it is to say kind things, even to those who aren’t able to be kind themselves. Smiling, listening, and understanding others’ feelings are important skills that we should all cherish.
Things that are important to children include friends, home, parks, and school. Inka hoped for a safe environment with more space to move around and play. And Jooa—a 6-year-old philosopher—summed up her wish this way: Parents should be given time together and rest so they have the energy to play Monopoly with their children. The future lies with children and young people. Their words are a reminder that decision-making isn’t just about numbers and budgets—it’s about people, families, and dreams.
These days, politics feels like a hockey game—confrontation, shouting, and unnecessary penalty minutes.But really, Finland doesn’t need more bickering; it needs more respectful dialogue, listening, and cooperation. There’s room in the middle—and that’s where the solutions of the future are forged.
Oulu is a city that combines innovation and tradition, the university and entrepreneurship, the pulse of the city and the tranquility of nature. It is a place with the potential to become even better—but that requires bold decisions and, above all, cooperation.
What kind of Oulu could there be by the time my sister’s children enter the workforce, if we make the right decisions now? I envision an international city where business thrives and the economy is on solid ground. A city capable of providing high-quality, sensible basic services—for families with children, seniors, and everyone in between, regardless of where in the municipality they live. A city where young people have the opportunity to stay, study, and develop themselves. A city where entrepreneurship is profitable and where new businesses can be launched, grow, and create jobs.
Politics isn’t a one-man show—it’s a team effort. If we want an Oulu where cooperation is a strength, where families thrive, and where entrepreneurship and vitality are supported, it won’t happen on its own. It will only happen if you and I—all of us—decide to make it happen together.
Join my campaign. Let’s talk, brainstorm, and work together so we can build the Oulu of the future. Every conversation, every voice, every action brings us closer to our shared goal. Let’s switch to the Center—and let’s do it together!
