Ghanaian Development Queen Promotes Cultural Diplomacy During Historic Lapland Visit

A historic visit to Finnish Lapland by a Ghanaian Development Queen has strengthened cultural diplomacy and international cooperation between Ghana and Finland through a series of high-level engagements focused on heritage preservation, Indigenous culture, tourism, public health, and international friendship.

The visit highlighted the importance of using culture as a bridge for global understanding while celebrating individuals and institutions that continue to preserve history, promote innovation, and strengthen communities.

As part of the visit, the Queen Mother presented the prestigious Royal Legacy Award Certificate, one of only five copies produced, to distinguished individuals whose lifelong contributions have significantly advanced culture, heritage, education, and community development.

One of the recipients was the Original Santa Claus, recognised globally as one of Finland's foremost cultural ambassadors. The award acknowledged his enduring role in promoting Finnish culture, kindness, and goodwill to millions of visitors from around the world, reinforcing Finland's global cultural identity.

The Queen Mother also honoured Pekka Aikio, the first Chairman of the Sámi Parliament of Finland, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to preserving Sámi culture, protecting Indigenous heritage, and advancing Indigenous leadership. His contribution continues to inspire efforts to safeguard the rights and traditions of Indigenous communities.

Another recipient was Leena Jääskeläinen, internationally celebrated as the "Godmother of Nordic Walking." During the visit, Leena personally demonstrated the correct Nordic walking technique and presented the Queen Mother with an official pair of Nordic walking poles, making her the first African to receive them directly from the pioneer of the globally recognised exercise. The award recognised Leena's remarkable contribution to public health, physical education, and Finland's international legacy through Nordic walking, now practised by an estimated 25 million people worldwide. The exchange symbolised a unique partnership between Africa and Finland centred on health, innovation, and friendship.

The Queen Mother further recognised entrepreneur Harri Pokka, co-owner of Santa Claus Holiday Village and founder of Pokka Reindeer Meat and Pokka Reindeer Hides, for his dedication to preserving Lapland's reindeer-herding traditions, promoting sustainable local enterprise, and protecting the cultural heritage of northern Finland.

Beyond the award presentations, the visit featured several educational and cultural engagements aimed at promoting heritage preservation and international dialogue.

At the Rovaniemi Art Museum, the Queen Mother met former Museum Director Hilkka Liikkanen and explored the museum's unique architectural concept and extensive collections of Nordic art. The engagement highlighted the important role museums play in preserving artistic heritage while fostering cultural dialogue across continents.

The Queen Mother also visited the Arctic Centre (Arktikum), where she was hosted by Professor Bamidele Raheem, a Nigerian academic who has lived in Finland for more than four decades. The visit provided valuable insight into Arctic life, environmental sustainability, and the history and contemporary culture of the Sámi people. Discussions reinforced the importance of protecting Indigenous knowledge, preserving cultural identity, and promoting international cooperation in safeguarding fragile environments.

At the Rovaniemi Local Heritage Museum, the Queen Mother explored authentic farm buildings and historical exhibitions that preserve everyday life in Lapland before the Second World War. The experience underscored the importance of safeguarding local history and passing cultural heritage from one generation to the next.

The visit also celebrated cultural exchange through music and the performing arts. A special cultural evening at Valdemari Restaurant, hosted by Sirpa Rousu and Tuula Alapirtti, welcomed Gambian musician An2 Adi Sparky, who became the first African artist to perform at the venue. The programme, supported by Tuomas Alaoja, with entertainment by DJ Spencer & Uptown, reflected the growing cultural connections between Africa and Finland. The event was attended by Hannele Simonen, a close friend of Leena Jääskeläinen, further strengthening the friendships established during the visit.

Throughout her stay, the Queen Mother was accommodated at the private residence of Finnish artist Sini Kunnas, whose hospitality provided opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange and strengthened the bonds of friendship between the two countries.

The successful coordination of the Lapland tour was led by Rauno Riekkinen, Chief Executive Officer of Original Wild & Free Tours Ltd, whose extensive knowledge of the region ensured that every engagement showcased Lapland's rich history, culture, traditions, and natural beauty. The Queen Mother also acknowledged Pauli, affectionately known as Pehtoori, for his warm hospitality and valuable support throughout the visit.

The historic mission received extensive media coverage through NeoReport Ghana, led by Samuel Nana Effah Obeng, which served as the official media partner. Through its reporting, NeoReport Ghana documented the Queen Mother's cultural diplomacy, heritage engagements, and international collaborations, helping to strengthen awareness of the growing partnership between Ghana and Finland while introducing audiences across Africa to the unique cultural heritage of Finnish Lapland.

The visit demonstrates how cultural diplomacy, heritage preservation, and international partnerships can promote mutual respect, encourage knowledge exchange, and build lasting relationships between nations. It also reinforces the role of cultural leaders in using dialogue, education, and shared experiences to connect communities across continents.