Dimitra Panopoulou-Huovila, Kreikka

Tell us briefly about your journey to Tampere and how you ended up here?

When I first moved to Finland, I lived in Helsinki and I moved to Tampere to pursue a Master's degree in Tampere University in 2014. Here I've reimagined my career, tried entrepreneurship and settled down.

What do you love most about living in Tampere?

The two big lakes offer such nice views and different activities throughout the year. I just love how the city is filled in nature, and I hope not all parks will be replaced by blocks of houses.

Why would you encourage international talents to move to Tampere?

Tampere is becoming more and more international every year and new employment opportunities pop-up. There is a good support system for entrepreneurs as well. Most importantly, the International House Tampere definitely makes the first steps settling in way easier than how it was when I first moved to Finland.

What is your favorite place, and your favorite thing to do in Tampere?

The shoreline of Näsijärvi, especially in the summer with the gorgeous sunsets. In the winter, I like skating at the small skating rings in neighbourhoods' playgrounds and during the summer I like biking in the countryside.

How would you describe Tampere as a city, what makes it special?

It is a small city where everything is in short distance and at the same time it has a rich cultural scene, sporting facilities, nightlife.