This week, we are joined by our new Programme Assistant, Joséphine Gram! Read on to learn more about Joséphine and her expectations for the internship.
“Hey,
My name is Joséphine, and I’ve just arrived in sweaty Brussels from a not so sweaty Helsinki. I hear it usually rains a lot here, but honestly, I’m just grateful to escape the Nordic cold and darkness for a while.
I’m thrilled to join the team at the Finnish Cultural Institute for the Benelux and can’t wait to dive into the exciting work ahead!
Over the past few years, I’ve been mastering the art of juggling—balancing my master’s studies in Sociology, with work in an academic context as well as within the Finnish-Swedish cultural scene. A common thread in my work, studies, and personal life has been broadening the discourse around racial equity and decolonisation in Finland, especially within the Swedish speaking community. I approach this with an intersectional perspective, striving to ensure that BIPOC artists and cultural workers are not just included but elevated in the cultural conversation.
For me, culture is both broad and intimate at the same time—it can be a way of moving through the world, forging connections, and building community. I’m super excited to experience all the behind-the-scenes action that goes into cultural production here in the “heart of Europe” and to contribute to the dynamic, international setting that Brussels has to offer. I’m eager to see how my understanding of culture and cultural production evolves during my time at the institute. Plus, I’m definitely looking forward to exploring the city, and maybe having a waffle or two along the way!
Looking forward to the journey!”
Joséphine joins us as part of the Svenska kulturfonden (SKF) / The Swedish Cultural Foundation in Finland internship.