Crossing Cultures: A Journey into Sámi Heritage with IFS

An Erasmus+ Cultural Exchange Between Finland, Norway, and IFS Partners

In April 2025, a small group of IFS members and partners embarked on an enriching Erasmus+ mobility project focusing on Sámi cultural heritage and political priorities. Participants included staff and volunteers from the Danish NGO-Network for International Project Cooperation, joined by representatives of the Finnish Federation of Settlement Houses (FFSH), who hosted the course.

Over six days, we traveled between Inari Village, Finland, and Karasjok, Norway, immersing ourselves in the heart of Sámi communities, their history, and their present-day realities. This experience was part of the broader Erasmus+ project, “Insight into Europe’s diverse cultural heritage and shared values,” aimed at deepening understanding across cultures and strengthening European cooperation.

Throughout the journey, we had the privilege to visit significant locations such as the Sámi Parliament and Museum (Siida) in Inari and the Sámi Cultural Center in Karasjok. These visits provided a deeper context to the vibrant and resilient Sámi traditions and highlighted the political and societal issues facing the Sámi people today.

One of the most powerful aspects of the trip was the connection between learning and personal experience. Guided tours, discussions with local leaders, and storytelling sessions offered profound insights into the Sámi way of life, their connection to the land, and their ongoing efforts to preserve their language, culture, and rights.

Some unforgettable moments included:

• Meeting Sámi representatives who shared first-hand accounts of cultural resilience.
• Exploring exhibitions showcasing Sámi art, history, and craftsmanship.
• Witnessing how political advocacy and cultural pride are intertwined in Sámi society.

The course fostered not only knowledge exchange but also new bonds of collaboration among the participants. Through every discussion and shared experience, the trip beautifully embodied IFS’s mission of building inclusive communities and celebrating diversity across borders.

This journey reinforced the importance of intercultural dialogue and solidarity — reminding us that preserving indigenous cultures is essential for building a richer, more connected Europe.

It was an honor to be part of this learning experience. And as we carry these lessons forward, we are more inspired than ever to continue weaving these precious connections into the broader tapestry of IFS’s international work.

— Junias Kanyinda, Building Bridges Across Cultures