Businesses play a key role in fulfilling social responsibility – Suominen continues to support UNICEF's educational work via Ahlström Collective Impact

Suominen, via Ahlström Collective Impact, continues to support UNICEF's global educational program in 2024, reinforcing its commitment to children's education worldwide. A key element of this collaboration is the training organized by UNICEF Finland for members of the Ahlström Collective Impact network, emphasizing the importance of children's rights in business operations and corporate responsibility.

The support provided by Ahlström Collective Impact for UNICEF's educational program this year amounts to close to 800 000 euros.

"I see that the corporate sector plays a crucial role in social responsibility, and this role will become increasingly important in the future. UNICEF Finland's recent report on the child rights performance of Finnish companies, viewed through a 'child lens,' is a significant step forward in this effort.

Our vision is to create a better world for future generations, and as the world's most influential children's organization, UNICEF has the potential to effect long-lasting changes in the lives of children and young people," says Nelli Paasikivi-Ahlström, Chair of the Ahlström Collective Impact.

"Sustainability is at the core of Suominen's strategy and operations. We acknowledge our responsibility to the society and strive to make a positive impact locally and globally. With ACI we are part of a community that supports the important work of UNICEF,” says Emilia Peltola, VP, Communications & Sustainability, Suominen Corporation.

Partnership in Action

The collaboration extends beyond financial support. Earlier this year, companies within the Ahlström Collective Impact network participated in a study by UNICEF Finland on the implementation of children's rights in Finnish-listed companies. Based on the study's findings, these companies have started to further develop their responsibility work.

"We are grateful to Ahlström Collective Impact for its long-term commitment to partnering with us and supporting our educational work. Education is every child's right. It is also a key part of building a sustainable and stable future and strengthening the resilience of societies," says Johanna Talvela, Director, Corporate Collaboration, UNICEF Finland.

UNICEF

UNICEF, the world's largest advocate for children's education, promotes education in 150 countries. Its efforts include providing education in crisis situations, changing attitudes that hinder schooling, promoting quality teaching, and defending the right to education for children with disabilities and minorities. The organization works on both grassroots efforts and the development of entire education systems in collaboration with government authorities.

Ahlström Collective Impact

The Ahlström Collective Impact collaboration model began in 2020, uniting companies and foundations in the Ahlström network to invest in children's well-being through selected UNICEF projects aligned with the UN's sustainable development goals. Members include A. Ahlström, Ahlström Invest, Ahlstrom, Avain Yhtiöt, Destia, Detection Technology, Eva Ahlström Foundation, Glaston, M&J Recycling, Suominen, and Walter Ahlström Foundation.