Mentions of Merit

 They unite members within the guild

 They have significantly contributed to the guild’s efforts, goals or wellbeing.

 They go beyond expectations in their actions for the Urbanum community.

They connect Urbanum to external bodies and communities

EMMI TULUS

We want to start by saying this recipient has long deserved recognition for all they have done for the guild. Going back to their first days here, they have done everything to support and uplift Urbanum in ways such as creating an inviting atmosphere and building stronger relationships with others outside our community. However, their biggest and most appreciated contribution to the guild has been their dedication to the events team. Since the beginning of their time on the events team, they have put so much effort into creating, organizing, and arranging events for all to enjoy. Without them, many of the events (like galas, excursions, quiz nights, sporting events, and so on) we have truly enjoyed the past two years would not have been possible. Their sincere passion is utterly admirable, and there are not enough words to express the gratitude I and many of us have for this individual.

ELLA HYVÄRINEN

The next recipient for the mention of merit is an incredibly positive individual, spreading so much warmth and happiness to all they meet. Despite taking a leave from Urbanum activities for a bit last year, their experiences outside of Finland motivated them to create new experiences for Urbanum. In this past year, this person has catapulted themself into guild work, specifically creating the new role of excursion officer. Because of this person, Urbanum will experience their first excursion outside of Finland! From the sidelines, we have seen this person pour their blood, sweat, and tears into organizing this unique experience. The devotion and care they have expressed for their work is heart-warming. We just want to thank this person dearly for pushing themself to give others an experience they have never had.

SOFIA GEHÖR

The recipient of this award is a remarkable individual who truly embodies the spirit of kindness and inclusivity. Right from the beginning of their studies, they immersed themselves in the Urbanum community, even going as far as to serve in a position of leadership. Their leadership is characterised by a genuine care for others; they are a champion for students and an unwavering advocate for what is right, whether it means challenging the status quo or confronting difficult issues.  This person is exceptional at using student feedback to drive meaningful change. Every interaction with them brings warmth, making everyone feel seen and valued. Their dedication to fostering a supportive and effective learning environment needs to be recognised.

Member of the Year

This is a separate category specifically for one person who embodies the joyous attitude of our guild to internal and external communities.

KHÁNH NGUYỄN (PETER)

This year’s member of the year is someone who has a happy heart. They have an infectious smile and light up every room they walk into. In the past year, they have been an incredible asset to the events team, providing fun ideas and executing them successfully. They have also been an excellent role model for fuksis as a tutor, and continue to foster a welcoming and safe environment, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Their energy and humour are unmatched; you will always catch this person doing a silly little goofy dance move in the corner of your eyes. 

Empathy and generosity are at the core of their interactions; they have a ready helping hand and continue to show others that simple acts of kindness and thoughtfulness go a long way.

Recognition of Long Service

This is a separate category specifically for the person(s) who have contributed significantly to Urbanum for three (3) or more years

ROWAN VAN DER KAADEN

The first recognition of long service goes to a person who has mostly worked on projects behind the scenes, so to say. Only the scene here is our common living room, the beloved Urbanum guildroom. Did a wizard come over or how did the light strips magically appear to light up the room and the atmosphere? And do we hear voices or is it the door bot telling us whether the living room is open to serve tea, coffee and friends to connect with and share the course of the day? They came to Urbanum pouring with ideas to execute for the guild to better serve the community. Their resourcefulness makes them the number one person to contact whenever you have a project waiting for execution, or you just wanna play some games. Additionally, they have been reborn as a tutor for the new generation.

ESTER VÄISÄNEN

This next person’s picture should be in the dictionary next to the word Urbanum. They have been interested, involved and engaged in Urbanum from the very beginning of their time in the university. Not only have they shaped many vital internal and external processes of the guild and gained experience in different sectors, they’ve also connected with definitely over the majority of the members and will most definitely meet you with a smile. In the guild work they always prioritize quality time, and have rooted for refreshment activities and leisure time, putting time, effort and love into this community and the connections there. They’re always there to ask advice from, they will gladly help no matter the issue and they will most certainly share a laugh or two with you.