A role model can no doubt be one of the most important assets in your life. Whether you find yourself riddled by insecurity or you’re beaming with joy, a role model is someone that inspires you to keep going forward and improving yourself. Luckily, the world is full of empowering women that we can look up to when we need a little extra motivation in our lives. We were interested in finding out what kinds of female role models students at the University of Helsinki have and so we set out to ask them a few questions.
Name: Sofia Blanco Sequeiros
Who is your female role model and how does that person inspire you?
Women who take an equal position in their work community and never apologise for themselves inspire me. For example, I look up to female researchers who are determined and aren’t afraid to be themselves.
Is there a fictional female character that has inspired or empowered you?
Yes, Minerva McGonagall.
Name: Yuri
Who is your female role model and how does that person inspire you?
My mom. She is very assertive and in the end she knows everything.
Name: Edna Huotari
Who is your female role model and how does that person inspire you?
Maryan Abdulkarim, who is influential in the Naisasialiiton Unioni, and thinkers like Hannah Arendt are my role models. I admire women who are courageous and stand up for themselves.
Name: Crista Juola
Who is your female role model and how does that person inspire you?
My mom. She is feminine, stylish and warm. She is very social and gets along well with people.
Name: Roosa Kontiokari
Who is your female role model and how does that person inspire you?
I am inspired by elder women who have an up beat and energetic attitude.
Name: Lena Näre
Who is your female role model and how does that person inspire you?
I am inspired by strong Finnish women. In a way I also inspire myself.
Is there a fictional female character who inspires or empowers you?
Pippi Longstocking is an inspiring character. She is independent and she isn’t afraid to follow her own path.
Name: Juhana Nordberg
Who is your female role model and how does that person inspire you?
My girlfriend. She is sincere, intelligent and true to herself. In general, women who are confident and speak their mind are admirable.
All photos © Maija Huitu