Meet Riikka from our young leader program “YLIB”
Riikka Pulkkinen, a dedicated advocate for youth involvement in sports, reflects on her journey as a member of Young Leaders in Barents (YLIB) and the profound impact it has had on her life.
Riikka Pulkkinen
Hailing from Finland, Riikka Pulkkinen has embraced her role within the Young Leaders in Barents (YLIB) program with passion and dedication. Although her sporting journey initially revolved around volleyball during her school years, followed by a stint in weightlifting, her interest in sports management propelled her towards YLIB.
– I joined YLIB during my studies after receiving an email inviting participants to a sports event in Russia. Little did I know, it would become a transformative experience.
Riikka and Arina Mikno during Barents Winter Games 2023 in Bodø.
For Riikka, YLIB represents more than just a program; it embodies new experiences, invaluable learnings in sports event management, engaging discussions, and the opportunity to forge lasting connections. "It's not just about the events; it's about the people," she emphasizes.
Offering advice to aspiring YLIB members, Riikka underscores the potential for personal and professional growth. "Be open to new experiences and seize opportunities that come your way," she advises. "YLIB isn't just about what you can contribute; it's also about what you can gain."
Reflecting on her involvement in Barents Games, Riikka acknowledges the significance of the event in fostering cross-border cooperation and providing a platform for youth to showcase their talents. "The Barents Games epitomize the spirit of unity and camaraderie," she remarks. "It's more than just a competition; it's a celebration of diversity and friendship."
“YLIB provides a platform for young people to make a difference, regardless of their athletic background.”
Looking ahead to Barents Summer Games 2024, Riikka eagerly anticipates welcoming new YLIB members and continuing her journey of learning and collaboration. "Every event brings new challenges and opportunities," she says. "And I'm excited to be part of it."
Riikka's dedication to Barents Sports extends beyond the realm of competition. "I'm driven by a desire to learn and contribute to meaningful initiatives," she explains. "YLIB provides a platform for young people to make a difference, regardless of their athletic background."
Amidst her many experiences, Riikka fondly recalls a memorable moment from a YLIB gathering in Tromsø, Norway. "We hiked to Fjellheisen and enjoyed traditional snacks which were orange, dried fish, Kvikk Lunsj and lefse amidst breathtaking scenery," she reminisces. "It was a reminder of the bonds we share and the beauty of the north."
Riikka and Audun M. Anvik (Nor) presented YLIB during the Barents Sports Conference 2022 in Piteå (Swe). The audience was sports leaders from Sweden, Norway and Finland.
“Every event brings new challenges and opportunities, and I’m excited to be part of it.”
The YLIBers hiked to Fjellheisen to enjoy traditional snacks and the scenery during BSG22 in Tromsø.
As Riikka continues her journey with YLIB, her commitment to empowering youth and promoting sportsmanship remains unwavering. With each event and interaction, she exemplifies the ethos of YLIB – fostering leadership, camaraderie, and a shared passion for sports across borders.
“Riikka has been a fantastic participant of YLIB”, says Vera Arntsen, international coordinator for Barents Sports. “She has participated since 2019, and went from being a "regular" participant to becoming a mentor for new participants who sign up for the program. She has also agreed to give lectures regarding both YLIB and the Barents Games at several conferences and gatherings. This shows what at wonderful ambassador for barent sport she is -without a doubt”.
We thank Riikka both for her commitment and for this interview.
