More Than Language: How the Red Cross Helps International Students Feel at Home in Kouvola

Moving to a new country is an exciting experience, but it also brings challenges. For international students arriving in Finland, learning Finnish, meeting new people and understanding everyday life can sometimes feel difficult. In Kouvola, the Finnish Red Cross offers a welcoming opportunity to practice Finnish and connect with the local community.

The Finnish Red Cross is a humanitarian organisation that helps people in need, supports communities and promotes the well-being of people in Finland and around the world. Its work is guided by humanity, kindness and a willingness to help others. Volunteers play an important role in making these activities possible.

The free Finnish language sessions organised by the Red Cross in Kouvola are a valuable opportunity for newcomers, including international students. These sessions give learners a chance to practice simple Finnish words, everyday conversations and useful expressions in a friendly environment.

For a student who has recently arrived from another country, even simple Finnish sentences can make a big difference. Ordering food, asking for directions, shopping at a supermarket or talking to a neighbor becomes easier with practice. These small steps can also build confidence and encourage students to use Finnish outside the classroom.

The sessions offer something equally important: human connection. Students can meet people from different backgrounds, share experiences and feel less alone in a new country. Friendly conversations can help newcomers understand Finnish culture and become more comfortable in their local community.

As an international student studying at XAMK in Kouvola, I believe opportunities like these make student life more meaningful. Learning Finnish is not only about grammar and vocabulary; it is also about building relationships and feeling that we belong.

A sincere thank you to the Finnish Red Cross and its dedicated volunteers for their kindness, time and valuable contribution. Their work reminds us that a welcoming community is built through small acts of support, one conversation at a time.

The Red Cross Café, organized by the Finnish Red Cross South-Eastern Finland District, takes place every Thursday from 4 to 6 pm. Volunteers offer Finnish language support, followed by a chance to relax, chat, and spend time together over light refreshments. The café is located at Kouvolankatu 21. The City of Kouvola also supports the initiative.

Volume 29,Issue 08,06th November,2026