©Helsinki Pride Instagram - Kaisa Seppo (left) and Matti Numminen.

Helsinki Pride is entering 2026 with renewed energy, clarity, and purpose.

At the membership meeting held on December 15, 2025, the community elected Matti Numminen as the new Chair of the Board, alongside Kaisa Seppo, who will serve as Vice Chair for the 2026–2027 term.

Together, they represent a leadership duo deeply rooted in advocacy, strategic development, and intersectional thinking — values that sit at the very heart of Helsinki Pride.

Who is Matti Numminen?

With over 15 years of experience in arts, culture, and the creative economy, Matti Numminen brings a leadership style shaped by structure-building, sustainable development, and cultural change.

Currently working as an Executive Director in advocacy, Numminen sees his role as chair not only as a strategic position, but as a responsibility to create long-lasting conditions for the LGBTQ+ community to thrive — all year round.

“Without functioning structures and clear goals, we cannot change society in a more rainbow-inclusive direction.”

Building impact beyond Pride season

One of Numminen’s core priorities is strengthening year-round operations and increasing the social impact of Helsinki Pride’s work.

He emphasizes that strong internal structures, clear objectives, and well-supported staff are essential for meaningful progress — especially in times when LGBTQ+ rights remain under pressure globally.

“I want to be involved in strengthening the position of gender and sexual minorities, especially with regard to people in particularly vulnerable situations. I consider active dialogue between the community and stakeholders to be significant for our success,”

— Numminen says.

Intersectionality at the center

Numminen is particularly committed to intersectional advocacy, recognizing that within the LGBTQ+ community exist multiple layers of vulnerability.

“One of the Chair’s most important tasks is to support the work of effective leadership and the association’s staff, and to ensure a peaceful working environment”

Active dialogue with community members and stakeholders will be a key strategy in ensuring that no voices are left unheard.

Keeping Pride accessible, safe, and free

Another strategic focus is building partnerships that sustain youth, social, and community work throughout the year— partnerships that also help keep the Helsinki Pride Parade and Park Festival free, safe, and accessible to all.

“Stability and continuity are essential if we want to change the world for gender and sexual minorities.”

Meet the Vice Chair: Kaisa Seppo

Elected as Vice Chair for 2026–2027, Kaisa Seppo brings extensive expertise in commercial strategy, finance, and cross-sector collaboration.

Her professional focus has long been centered on promoting inclusive and diverse working environments, with a strong emphasis on LGBTQ+ inclusion.

“It is an honor to help guide the future of the Helsinki Pride community and strengthen a space where everyone can feel safe and proud to be themselves.”

Seppo’s leadership style combines strategic thinking with empathy, energy, and a strong belief in collective growth.

“In recent years, I have been particularly interested in developing and promoting an inclusive and diverse working life, especially focusing on LGBTQIA+ themes, both within my employer organization and also more broadly in cooperation that crosses organizational boundaries. It is an honor to be involved in building and guiding the direction and growth of the Helsinki Pride community’s valuable work in the future,” says Seppo.

Looking ahead

The new Helsinki Pride Board will officially begin its work on January 1, 2026, marking the start of a leadership period grounded in stability, dialogue, and long-term vision.

At Queerland Media, we celebrate leadership that understands community, listens deeply, and dares to build futures where equality is not seasonal — but structural.

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Helsinki Pride Announces New Leadership for 2026: Matti Numminen and Kaisa Seppo