Tampere Awards 2026: Recognition for Preserving Veterans’ Heritage and for Achievements in Culture

Tampere Award for Preserving Veterans’ Heritage

War veteran and Senior Engineer Aimo Reinikainen received the Tampere Award in recognition of his significant contributions to veterans’ organisations both in Tampere and across the country. Born in Pieksämäki in 1924, Reinikainen served during the Continuation War as the leader of a machine-gun squad on the Maaselkä Isthmus. After the war, he studied electrical engineering in Tampere and went on to work at Tampere University of Technology.

Particularly since his retirement, Reinikainen has devoted himself to supporting war veterans and preserving veterans’ heritage. He has served on the board of the Finnish War Veterans’ Association, of which he is also an honorary member, and as a board member of the Tampere War Veterans’ Welfare Association. Reinikainen continues to play an active role in the activities of the Pirkanmaa Heritage Association, part of the Tammenlehvän Perinneliitto.

Tampere’s First Class Gold Medals of Merit awarded to three cultural figures

Theatre artist Tanjalotta Räikkä was honoured for her significant achievements in the field of theatre arts in Finland and internationally. Räikkä has enjoyed a career spanning more than four decades as an actress, director and scriptwriter. She has worked extensively in theatre, music, film, television and radio, and has made a valuable contribution as a teacher and promoter of international cooperation. Räikkä is also one of the founding members of Teatteri Telakka and has served for many years on the artistic steering committees of both Teatteri Telakka and the Tampere Theatre Festival.

The author Annukka Salama was honoured for her achievements, particularly as a pioneer in children’s literature. Salama, who lives in Tampere, has published several highly acclaimed works, including her debut novel *Käärmeenlumooja*, which was nominated for the Topelius Prize in 2013. In her work, Salama has explored a wide range of themes relating to young people’s identity, human relationships and social issues.

Musician Tuomas Kostiainen was honoured for his significant contributions to Finnish rap music. The Tampere-based rap artist is known by the stage name Costi. Between 2022 and 2025, he released three albums, all of which reached the top of Finland’s official album charts. Costi is known for his skilful lyrics and energetic performances, and his music has been streamed tens of millions of times.

The Tampere Award is the City of Tampere’s highest honour, which may be awarded to a person who, through their life’s work or activities, has promoted the development of Tampere, the wellbeing of its residents or enhanced the city’s appeal. The award is presented annually on Tampere Day and was first presented in 1959.

Since 2016, the prize has been a glass artwork designed by the artist Markku Salo, entitled ‘Tammerkosken kuohu’ (The Roar of the Tammerkoski Rapids), which combines a Tampere-style stone base with bubbling glass to symbolise the city’s traditions and renewal. Alongside the Tampere Award, the City of Tampere presents Class I gold medals of merit and special awards to individuals who have distinguished themselves in various fields.