Meaningful to work on an issue that is so relevant to Åland

After ten years of travelling between Uppsala and the cottage in Eckerö, Sara Arons and her partner felt it was time to choose where they would be based. Their son was approaching school age and the commuting was starting to feel exhausting – then the job as CEO of the Baltic Sea Foundation came up. Two months later, the move was complete.

A fresh start in Åland

The reason it ended up being Åland and Mariehamn is that Sara's partner is from Åland. For many years, the couple commuted between Sara's home in Uppsala and weekends off in Åland.

– It was a good solution for us for a long time, even when we had children. My partner works at sea and has longer periods of leave. It was a freedom that he and our son could go to the cottage, and I would join them at weekends.

Over time, the trips became harder to manage and it was time for the family to make a decision.

– At first I was sceptical about Åland – what would it be like to go from a larger city to living on an island? Then I realised that as a parent of young children, I wasn't really taking advantage of what I liked about city life anyway, and decided to give Åland a chance.

When the CEO position at the Baltic Sea Foundation came up, she didn't hesitate.
– The project manager in me really got fired up! In a short time I sold my flat in Uppsala, bought an apartment in Mariehamn, changed countries and started our new life.

A big small town

Despite having spent a lot of time in Åland, it was only after moving that Sara truly got to know Mariehamn.

– I knew that Åland has beautiful nature, but that in itself isn't what makes me feel at home. Mariehamn, on the other hand, has surprised me and turned out to be a great city to live in. There is a lot on offer and I am impressed by how many restaurants, cultural events and activities there are throughout the year. Even in February, different events clash!

She enjoys living centrally and being able to cycle and walk everywhere. As someone with a passion for food and wine, she also appreciates the good food shops, a dedicated wine bar in the heart of the city and many locally sourced ingredients.

– Here you find everything from meat and fish to dairy and grain – it feels unique for such a small island. I think the entrepreneurial spirit is strong and it's great that so many people dare to take the leap.

Proximity makes life simple

The small scale is noticeable in both everyday life and working life. There is a high degree of flexibility, everyone helps each other out and it is easy to find solutions.

– Healthcare is also incredibly accessible, which is a huge plus. We even chose to have our son in Åland despite living in Sweden because the maternity care is so good.

The family is also happy with the childcare. A place at nursery was arranged quickly and the proximity to both forest and beach is hard to beat.

From a large workplace to a one-person office

Going from communications director at a workplace with 4,000 employees to working alone in the office as CEO of the Baltic Sea Foundation has been a major change.

– At the same time, it is really exciting to work with the Baltic Sea and on an issue that is so relevant to Åland. It feels urgent and meaningful – the health of the Baltic Sea is not just about the sea itself, but also about Åland's attractiveness and future.

Professionally, it has been easy to integrate into the community and build new networks. The lines of communication are short and a great deal can be arranged quickly. On a personal level, however, it has taken a little longer to build new relationships. Even though the people of Åland are sociable and friendly, it can take time to get truly close. Among other newcomers, on the other hand, it has been easier to find new friends.

Tips for future residents of Åland

For those considering moving to Åland, Sara recommends doing your research, having all your paperwork in order and preparing as much as possible in advance.

– Some things can be harder to get hold of here, especially if you want a specific variety or brand, so it can be a good idea to stock up and bring things with you before the move. For example, medicines or other products that you need or want, so you don't have to worry about it as soon as you arrive.

– And if possible – do come here beforehand. Spend some time in Åland on holiday and have a look around!