Candidates in the Representative Council Elections 2025

The Student Union Representative Council Election 2025 is underway.
Find your candidate and vote via the link sent to your student email!

Advance voting: 22 October – 4 November 2025
Election day: 5 November 2025 (voting closes at 4:00 p.m.)

How to vote?

  • Make sure you are a SAVOTTA member.
    Only members have the right to vote in the Representative Council election.
  • Find your personal voting link in your student email.
    The message is titled:
    “Äänestä SAVOTTAn Edustajistovaalissa 2025 – Vote in the SAVOTTA Representative Council Election 2025.”
  • Open the link and choose your candidate.
    You can vote for one student whom you wish to support for the Representative Council.
  • Remember to save your vote.

After voting, you can also enter a raffle to win Finnkino movie tickets!

Below you can find the candidates listed by electoral alliance and candidate number

Further down, you can also read about the goals of each electoral alliance 👇👇

Experience Experts / Kokemusasiantuntijat

2. Iida Väisänen

I’m Iida – or “Iitu,” as most people know me. I’m a fourth-year Hospitality Management student. I’m interested in improving students’ wellbeing and strengthening the voice of hospitality students in decision-making. – Vote for me if you want to make sure the voice of hospitality students is heard! I would, of course, love to continue for a second term in the Representative Council!

3. Iida Tallgren

Hi! I’m Iida, a third-year Hospitality Management student, and I’ve been the Event Coordinator for KUREO ry for one term. I want to help make sure the voices of hospitality students are heard – I’m not afraid to speak up! – I’m running for the Representative Council because I want hospitality students to be clearly represented in decision-making. I’m straightforward, eager to take on new things, and I believe in doing things together. I want to be the person who dares to speak up but also listens and collaborates!

4. Ulla Ruotsalainen

I’m Ulla, a second-year Hospitality Management student at Savonia. I study full-time and work occasional gigs. In my free time, I enjoy social dancing and being in nature. I’m interested in languages, cultures, and internationality – the international environment at Savonia is a wonderful thing! In the Representative Council, I want to promote students’ comfort and the functionality of everyday life. I was a deputy member last term and would love to continue developing our community. – I’m approachable and eager to learn new things while improving student life. I believe in open decision-making and student-centered activities. I want to be your voice in the Representative Council – together we can achieve more. Vote and make a difference!

5. Petra Virtanen

Hi! I’m Petra, a fourth-year Hospitality Management student. I’m a positive, active, and approachable person who prefers finding solutions over reasons. I want to help develop our student community into an even more open and inclusive place where every voice matters. I’ve been involved in student organizations and currently serve as KUREO’s Event Coordinator. That experience sparked my passion to make an even broader impact, which is why I’m running for the Representative Council. – Vote for me if you want positive energy and student-centered thinking in the Council. I want to listen to hospitality students and make sure their voices are heard in decisions.

SoTe Students Decide / SoTelaiset päättää

6. Dana Kreivald

Hi, I’m Dana, a third-year Paramedic student. I moved to Kuopio a few years ago from South Ostrobothnia. I enjoy student life and meeting students from different fields. – I’ve been interested in improving student affairs for quite some time, and now I finally have the chance. I especially want to represent the health care field – vote for me to help make that happen!

7. Aurora Haaranen

Hello! I’m a second-year Biomedical Laboratory Science student. In my free time, I like listening to music, dancing, rollerblading, and spending time with friends. – You should vote for me because I have experience in decision-making both in politics and in organizations. I want to promote wellbeing and community so that Savonia becomes the best possible place to study for everyone.

8. Jetro Virta

I’m Jetro, a third-year Paramedic student. I serve on the Tertta ry board in 2025 as Tutor Coordinator and Harassment Contact Person. – I keep my promises, get along with all kinds of students, and am committed to advocating for student interests.

Centre / Keskeiset

9. Venla Kajan

Do you feel like the same party-loving people always dominate student union activities? Here’s something a bit different: I’m a 27-year-old career changer, mother of a small child, and a diligent hard worker. I have 10 years of experience in association work and political involvement (though I’m not a stranger to student parties either!). I study Environmental Engineering, and ecological sustainability is close to my heart. The student union must also promote environmental responsibility in its activities. – 1. I’m ready to dedicate time and effort to Representative Council work. 2. Instead of complaining, I want to make an impact. Students cannot be ignored in decision-making. 3. I want every student to feel part of the community and find meaningful student activities.

10. Lauri Kajan

I’m Lauri Kajan, a 27-year-old Agri-engineering student from Kuopio. – The Representative Council definitely needs at least one agrologist!

11. Satu Koskinen

Former dairy farmer and agricultural worker. An active person who also finds strength in working with horses. I’m serving my first term in local politics. I bring practicality, fairness, and a desire to build Savonia into a community where everyone can make an impact. – I can listen, take initiative, and voice students’ concerns. I have experience with responsibility, community building, and sharing energy — and now I want to use all of that for Savonia’s good.

Culture Power / Kulttuurivoima

12. Vili Huupponen

Third-year Music Pedagogy student. Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer of Tempo ry, the student association for music and dance students at Savonia, in 2025. I also work as a customer advisor at a bank, perform in a party band, and play percussion at the Kuopio City Theatre. I’ve also served two terms as a municipal councilor in Rantasalmi and currently as a deputy councilor. – I genuinely want to improve students’ daily lives and ensure equality between campuses. I’ll bring my experience to make student life better. Together WE make Savonia a Great Place to Learn!

13. Linnea Moisio

I’m a 25-year-old second-year Dance Teacher student. In addition to my current degree, I hold a Master’s degree in English. My understanding of higher education is therefore diverse and well-grounded. – Equality among students in all situations is very important to me, and I aim to strengthen cooperation between the university and the university of applied sciences. I’ll make sure that music and dance students are included in the higher education community regardless of our campus location. Let’s build a fairer university together – vote for me!

14. Ellen Kronberg

I’m Ellen Kronberg, a 21-year-old Dance Teacher student inspired by culture, community, and wellbeing. I want to strengthen students’ voice in decision-making and highlight the importance of culture as a promoter of inclusion and wellbeing. I believe that art and culture can build bridges between people – that’s why they deserve support. – I’ll bring students’ voices, creative ideas, and a genuine desire to develop our community into decision-making. I believe that wellbeing, culture, and equality go hand in hand – and that small, brave actions can create a safer and more inclusive everyday life for everyone.

Engineers Decide / InssitPäättää

15. Noora Pietiläinen

Hi there! I’m Noora Pietiläinen — originally from Kouvola, now happily “lost” in Kuopio since 2023 studying Information Technology. I decided to run because I want to be part of our amazing school community and to experience Representative Council work alongside tutoring and student board activities. In the Council, I’d bring an attitude of action, good vibes, and a genuine desire to improve students’ status. If you see me on campus, come say hi — I’m quite the master yapper! – I’m straightforward and not afraid to speak my mind, even when it’s not the easiest path. At the same time, I’m a positive person who enjoys doing things together with others. Vote for me if you want an honest and energetic person in the Council!

16. Kristiina Jänkä

Hey everyone! I’m Kristiina, a second-year student of Electrical and Automation Engineering. I want to represent all students in the Representative Council and help “build” a campus where everyone feels they belong. My goal is to strengthen students’ voices, enhance wellbeing, and develop our student community to be more open and inclusive. – By voting for me, you’ll get a representative who listens, delivers, and develops. I have experience, I’m genuinely on every student’s side, and I believe in openness, team spirit, and everyone’s right to be heard.

17. Henri Heininen

Hello there! I’m Henri Heininen, a fourth-year IT student. I’m running for the Representative Council because students’ key issues deserve to be truly heard and acted upon, not buried under meetings and empty talk. I’ve seen how student needs often fade into the background if no one dares to voice them. That’s why I want to make sure students’ opinions are heard when decisions are made — not afterward. – For me, advocacy means practical actions: making sure study spaces are maintained and not quietly lost to “reforms,” and ensuring wellbeing is more than just a buzzword. My goal is a transparent, discussion-driven student union where constructive criticism is a sign of caring. I want to be the voice that genuinely cares.

18. Lauri Roponen

Hi, I’m Lauri, a fourth-year IT student. Alongside my studies, I’ve been a tutor for two years and served on KINRA ry’s board in various roles for two terms. In my free time, I enjoy fishing, mountain biking, and floorball. – I want to take part in making meaningful decisions. My experience as a tutor and in student associations has taught me teamwork and decision-making, which would also benefit the Representative Council. It’s important that engineering students’ voices are also heard there.

19. Miinus Mukala

Hey! I’m Miinus Mukala, a third-year Environmental Engineering student. I’m an active participant in student associations and currently in my second year as Event Coordinator for KUTOP. I’m running because I want to influence all students’ affairs and study experiences, learn new skills, and make Savonia an even more student-friendly place to study! – Vote for me if you want a representative who dares to speak up and stands up for all students — regardless of their field or campus!

20. Jesse Andersson

Hey there! I’m Jesse, and I’ve been active in student life for three years — three terms in KUTOP and this year also on SAVOTTA’s board. I’m a hands-on type who likes doing things for students. – I enjoy working for students and want to continue on this path. I’m outspoken, not afraid to ask questions or challenge ideas when needed. By voting for me, you’ll get a knowledgeable and action-oriented

21. Jouni Jaatinen

Hi! I’m Jouni Jaatinen, a third-year Mechanical Engineering student. I’m KUTOP’s 2025 Corporate and Tutor Coordinator. In my free time, you’ll most likely find me at the gym, running, hiking, or working on construction projects.

22. Teemu Saavalainen

Hi! I’m Teemu Saavalainen, a third-year Environmental Engineering student. Over the past year, I’ve been active in advocacy work through student organizations, which has deepened my interest in student representation. My goal in the Representative Council is to promote fair and student-oriented decision-making. – I’m motivated to advance students’ opportunities to influence and to make sure their perspectives are genuinely heard. Through association work, I’ve learned to listen, advocate, and act for students.

23. Aino Ruuska

I’m a third-year IT student and a licensed pharmacist by my previous degree. I’ve spent four years in various student associations at both university and university of applied sciences levels. Altogether, I’ve served two years on boards, one year as vice chair/project manager, and two years as chairperson. I’ve also tutored for four years. In my free time, I’m involved in volunteer firefighting, play Finnish baseball and video games, and enjoy crafting. – I want to ensure that technology students’ voices are heard in decision-making. My experience in organizations and tutoring has taught me a lot about teamwork and leadership. I approach everything with heart and passion — and I’m not afraid to speak up for what I believe in.

Independent Candidates / Sitoutumattomat ehdokkaat

24. Antti Pasanen

Hi! I’m Antti Pasanen, a second-year Environmental Engineering student. I moved from Satakunta to Northern Savonia last year and have since grown fond of Kuopio — especially student life. I don’t yet have prior experience in student union work, but I have a lot of motivation and interest in improving student life. – During my first year, I realized how enthusiastic I am about student events and how interested I am in how student organizations operate. I also want to focus on defending and improving students’ rights.

25. Aino Hynninen

Hello! I’m Aino Hynninen, a third-year Energy Engineering student and Chairperson of WAIO ry from Varkaus. I’ve actively worked for the student community — as an advocate, event organizer, and builder of community spirit. I want to bring a positive, development-oriented, and student-focused perspective to the Representative Council — together we can make Savonia an even better place to study! – Vote for me if you want an active, determined, and approachable representative who truly listens to students and gets things done. I believe in cooperation, transparency, and that even small actions can improve student wellbeing and sense of belonging.

26. Juha-Pekka Ämmälä

I’m a third-year Business Administration student majoring in Sales and Marketing. I’m running because I want to participate in decisions that affect students. I’m also involved in party politics, so positions of trust like this are familiar to me. I know how to point out problems and work together to find realistic solutions — something the Council also needs!

27. Arttu Suomi

I’m Arttu, 23, a first-year Physiotherapy student at Savonia. I previously studied Business Administration in Turku but switched to a field that inspires me more. I’m social, open, relaxed, sporty, and (so they say) emotionally intelligent. I’m applying because I want to meet new people, make an impact, and help others. I’ve followed your work and genuinely want to be part of it! – You should vote for me because I bring diverse perspectives and ideas from my personality and study experiences. I’m easy and fun to work with — relaxed, humorous, and curious to hear others’ opinions. I’m also spontaneous and always eager to take part in new activities and events.

Design Speaks / Muotoilu Äänessä

28. Juho Ruotsalainen

I’m Juho Ruotsalainen, a fourth-year Design student at Savonia. I’m social and get along with anyone. I’ve been active in student organizations throughout my studies, from board member to chairperson in various roles. – I want school to be a safe place for everyone. Freedom of speech is important to me, and I want to make sure every student is heard. I’ve built many connections at both Savonia and the university, which I believe would help in Council work. With my experience, I could further develop the Council’s operations and visibility among students!

29. Kimi Ikonen

Good day! I’m Kimi Ikonen, a 22-year-old Industrial Design student. I’m in my third year at Savonia and currently serve as Tutor and International Coordinator, as well as Harassment Contact Person for Mutka ry. I come from a small village in Sorsakoski, Savonia, where I lived until the end of middle school. At 16, I started high school in Pieksämäki, then moved to Kuopio. – I want to promote design students’ interests at the Savonia level and believe that in an institution the size of Savonia, every field should have an equal voice in decision-making.

Business Students Decide / Tradenomit päättää

30. Jimi Andersson

Hi! I’m Jimi Andersson, a second-year Business Administration student majoring in Sales and Marketing. I’ve been active in many student circles in both Kuopio and Mikkeli (KuoTra ry / Sokka ry) and served as a deputy member of SAVOTTA’s Representative Council in 2025. You’ve probably met me at events or stands! I’m an easygoing yet active person who isn’t afraid to speak up. – By voting for me, you’ll get a passionate and motivated doer who genuinely cares about what happens “behind the scenes” in student life. My previous experience helps me work effectively with others. Being part of the Representative Council has already provided me with great opportunities and lessons — and I know I still have more to give for a second term!

31. Singha Ashley

Hello, my name is Singha Ashley, and I’m a first-year Business Administration student. I’m running for the Representative Council because I want to be a voice for international students and help build a community where everyone feels welcome and like they belong. I know what it’s like to arrive in a new place, not fully understand the language, and still be trying to learn it. – If I’m elected, I’ll work to strengthen our student community by ensuring everyone has opportunities to connect, share, and grow together without feeling like language is a barrier. I’m dedicated, approachable, and willing to put in the work to make our school more inclusive and supportive.

32. Maria Ruuska

I’m Maria, a second-year Wellness Business student. I believe in the power of good vibes and teamwork! I want to learn, participate, and understand how decisions are made and how we as students can influence them. I’m curious, I ask questions, and I love learning new things. Curiosity often leads to great places — maybe even to the Representative Council this time! – Vote for me if you want positivity, curiosity, and the courage to ask “why?” in the Council. In life, not everything needs to be serious — except, of course, the things that truly matter.

Introductions of the Electoral Alliances 2025

Electoral Alliances on the 2024 elections