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Pauliina Pietilä
Local President

My JCI journey began in 2021, and what started as an opportunity to learn and get involved has grown into a big part of my life. Over the years, I have explored different sides of JCI — from leadership and project management to training, debating and international collaboration.

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  • 41 + 13
    Conferences attended
    41 in Finland · 13 internationally
  • 25 + 8
    Projects contributed to
    25 local · 8 national
  • 15 + 14
    Official JCI trainings completed · Training sessions delivered
  • 23
    Awards received
    Including Most Outstanding Member of JCI Finland

Leadership and organizational development
I served as Deputy President of JCI Central Park Helsinki in 2025 and as Local President in 2026. At the regional level, I served as Regional Individual Development Director in 2024.

I have also contributed to the development of JCI organizations in other ways, including serving as a local organization tutor for JCI Havis Amanda and JCI Mariehamn, participating in national teams and working as a trainer in the Strategy Academy.

One project particularly close to my heart was leading the development of JCI Central Park Helsinki’s 2025–2027 strategy. I enjoy bringing people together to explore where an organization is today, where it wants to go and what practical steps will help it get there.
Projects and conferences
Projects have been a major part of my JCI experience. One of the highlights was serving as COC Director for the European Capitals Meeting Helsinki 2024. The project brought together people from different countries and was recognized at local, regional and national levels.

I have also worked on projects such as Työnhakusparraajat, which supported jobseekers, and Päivä johtajana, which introduced students to leadership. More recently, I have been involved in organizing Lumous, the 2026 Regional Spring Conference in Helsinki, and developing the Baltic Sea Innovation Academy.


Training, debating and developing others
Learning and sharing knowledge have become an important part of my JCI journey. I have delivered training sessions on topics including leadership, debating, career opportunities, CVs and LinkedIn, and influencing and persuasion. I have also mentored members and supported others in developing their skills.

Debating has been another significant part of my journey. I became a regional and national debating champion in 2022, captained the Finnish debating team at the European Conference in 2023 and at the World Congress in 2025, and reached the semi-finals of the World Debating Championship in 2025. I have also served as a debate judge in Finland and internationally, including at the European Conferences in Oulu and Herning and at the Swedish National Conference.

For me, debating is not only about making an argument. It is about listening, thinking critically, understanding different perspectives and communicating clearly.
Learning beyond borders
International JCI has given me opportunities to connect with members from different countries and learn how JCI works in different contexts. Through European Capitals Meetings, European Conferences, the World Congress and international trainings such as European Academy and Global Local Leaders Academy, I have built friendships and learned from people who approach leadership and organizational development in different ways.

Recognition along the way
Over the years, I have received 23 awards for my involvement and contributions to JCI, including Most Outstanding Member of JCI Finland. I am grateful for this recognition, but what matters most to me is the people I have worked with, the experiences we have shared and everything I have learned along the way.


What JCI means to me
JCI has given me the opportunity to try things I might not otherwise have tried, take responsibility, make mistakes, learn and grow alongside others. It has introduced me to people who challenge and encourage me, and it has shown me how much can happen when people decide to build something together.

I am still learning, still curious and still saying yes to opportunities that help me grow — and hopefully help others do the same.
Professional life
I am an experienced People & Culture professional with over 15 years of international HR experience. I combine a strong understanding of people, leadership and organizational development with a pragmatic, business-oriented mindset. Known for my empathetic yet courageous approach, I build trust with leaders, challenge conventional thinking and help organizations navigate change while keeping people at the heart of decisions. I believe the best workplaces are built on strong leadership, open communication and a culture where people feel valued, empowered and able to grow. I am passionate about developing both people and organizations, and I bring energy, curiosity and a hands-on approach to turning ideas into meaningful, lasting impact.


Outside work and JCI
Outside of work and JCI, I love travelling and discovering new places and cultures. I’m also a proud dog owner and spend my summers living in my allotment garden, where I enjoy a slower pace of life, being outdoors and making the most of the Finnish summer. For me, it’s the perfect balance to a busy everyday life — a chance to recharge, enjoy the simple things and find inspiration in new experiences.

Keskuspuiston nuorkauppakamari
pres@keskuspuisto.org
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