Tampere hosted a summer camp for young people from Kyiv for the fifth time
Fourteen young people from Kyiv arrived at the Sorja summer camp in Karkku, Sastamala, from 22–28 July 2026. Focused on enjoying the summer, playing games, and having fun, the Sorja summer camp is a meaningful way to strengthen the partnership between the City of Tampere and Kyiv and to show support for both our sister city and Ukraine as a whole.
– This camp is an important example of how we can help Ukrainians and our long-standing sister city, Kyiv, during difficult times. It’s wonderful that we can offer young people from Kyiv a carefree summer and a safe place to be together. At the same time, we want to send a clear message that Tampere stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people, says Johanna Kirjavainen, Deputy Mayor of Tampere.
The summer camp program included outdoor games and activities, swimming, and sauna sessions. Trained counselors from the Tampere Summer Camp Association were in charge of the program. After the camp, the visitors from Kyiv spent another day in Tampere.
In addition to the cities of Tampere and Kyiv and the Tampere Summer Camp Association, the trip and its program were supported by Finnair and Särkänniemi.
Comprehensive Support for Ukraine
The City of Tampere has been assisting Ukraine and Kyiv during the war of aggression launched by Russia. Immediately after the war began, the Tampere City Board decided to donate 150 000 euros in supplies and cash to the Ukrainians. Since then, donations to Ukraine have included relief supplies, buses being taken out of service by TKL, a water tanker truck, and generators.
At its meeting on 2 March 2026, the City Board decided to provide its sister city with a total of 30 000 euros to purchase energy equipment, hygiene supplies, and medical supplies for Kyiv.
In addition, proceeds from concerts and other events organized by cultural organizations in Tampere have been donated to Ukraine. At the request of the City of Kyiv, the City of Tampere has focused its aid specifically on supporting children and young people, as well as on cooperation through physical activity and sports.
