TIA Cafe

Safe Corner ry successfully organized the Tell-It-All Café program in Vaasa on the 18.5.2026. It was dedicated to supporting the well-being of immigrant girls, women, and their families. The event aimed to create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where participants could share experiences, build social connections, and strengthen their sense of belonging within the community.

The one-hour gathering brought together women, girls, and children from diverse cultural backgrounds. Participants were warmly welcomed with refreshments, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere from the beginning. The facilitators introduced the purpose of the café, emphasizing respect, confidentiality, inclusion, and the importance of every participant’s voice.

The program included a sharing circle in which participants were encouraged to speak openly about their experiences, challenges, hopes, and sources of strength as they adapted to life in Finland. Many participants expressed appreciation for having a safe space where they could speak freely without fear of judgment. Topics discussed included loneliness, language barriers, cultural adjustment, parenting in a new environment, education opportunities, and the importance of emotional support and friendship.

Children attending the event participated in simple creative activities such as drawing and coloring, which allowed them to express themselves in a comfortable and engaging way while their mothers and caregivers took part in discussions.

A key outcome of the Tell-It-All Café was the sense of connection and solidarity created among participants. Several attendees shared that they felt heard, supported, and less isolated after the session. The café also encouraged intercultural understanding and strengthened trust between community members and the organization.

The event concluded with words of encouragement, information about future activities, and an invitation for participants to continue engaging in community programs that support mental well-being, empowerment, and social inclusion.

Overall, the Tell-It-All Café in Vaasa was a meaningful and impactful initiative that promoted emotional well-being, social connection, and empowerment among immigrant girls, women, and children. Safe Corner plans to continue organizing similar programs to further support integration, community participation, and holistic well-being in Vaasa.