The Culture Companion2026 programme has launched! In the participating municipalities, it is now possible to apply for a Culture Companion for example to visit museums, attend events or go for walks together. Trained volunteers offer companionship, support and the opportunity to share cultural experiences.
Would you like to find a companion to attend an event, visit a museum or go for a walk together during the European Capital of Culture year?
The newly launched Culture Companion2026 programme helps people find a safe companion for cultural events. All volunteers taking part in the programme have been interviewed and trained.
“A Culture Companion is a volunteer who accompanies you to events if you do not want to go alone. They offer companionship, support and the opportunity to share cultural experiences. The programme promotes cultural wellbeing, inclusion and social accessibility,” says Project Manager Anna Litewka-Anttolainen.
“Culture Companions are at the heart of a cultural climate change. Through new encounters, the threshold for participation is lowered and culture becomes more accessible. The experiences can be extremely meaningful,” adds Coordinator Minna Härkönen.
Culture Companions can also be found on site at Oulu2026 events. Culture Companion2026 is also a community where people can meet new people and enjoy culture together.
The programme operates in Alavieska, Haapavesi, Kajaani, Kuhmo, Kuusamo, Oulu, Oulainen, Sievi and Ylivieska.
Apply for your own Culture Companion:
Culture Companion to Oulu2026 events
The activity is enabled by the Equitable Inclusion Through Volunteering project, co-funded by the European Union. The programme is coordinated by the Oulu Culture Foundation.
Further information:
Anna Litewka-Anttolainen
Project Manager
Equitable Inclusion Through Volunteering
Tel. +358 40 538 8121
anna.litewka-anttolainen@oulu2026.eu
