Empowering change: Kukunori’s partnership with international student programs enhances global mental health initiative

Kukunori is excited to collaborate with two academic programs to engage international students completing internships in 2024–2025. Four students are joining Kukunori’s team, bringing their unique skills and perspectives to support the organization’s international development efforts and the scaling of the Guided Functional Peer Support (GFP) model.

By contributing to the creation of a digital training platform, the students help empower organizations worldwide to adopt the GFP model effectively. The co-operation not only offers students an opportunity to gain practical experience and professional growth but also allows them to pursue their shared passion with Kukunori: advancing mental health and creating inclusive solutions for communities globally.

One of the institutional partners is the NoVA Program, a double-degree initiative between Aalto University and Aalborg University, which integrates real-life projects with external stakeholders like Kukunori. Rebekka, a NoVA student of Visual Studies and Art Education from Denmark, discovered the opportunity through her professor at Aalto University, who knew of her interest in mental health work.

“He referred me to Kukunori immediately, which I am very grateful for. I truly enjoy being a part of this organization. The scaling of the GFP-model might be one of the catalysts that can contribute to a much-needed paradigm shift in mental health culture,” she says.

Another partner, Haaga-Helia University, connects international students with Finnish organizations through its IMIB Program. Eleanor (USA), James (Philippines), and Pubudu (Sri Lanka) are contributing their unique expertise to Kukunori’s initiatives, from digital business to brand development and data analysis.

The GFP Model: inclusive communities with no hierarchies 

The GFP model fosters mental health initiatives through community-based peer support. There are over 20 Culture Houses in Finland and internationally that operate based on this model. Activities are collaboratively designed by participants and led by trained peer supporters. Weekly programs range widely from arts, sports, and music to digital skills, gardening, and baking.

Students recognize many benefits of the GFP model as a social innovation.

“The most important aspect is that it empowers individuals to take an active role in their recovery by learning from others with similar experiences. It fosters a sense of community and reduces isolation”, Pubudu says.

When discussing the model’s benefits, Eleanor highlights the unique impact of its flat hierarchy:

“The flat hierarchy would give the participants a sense of empowerment. The guided nature will make sure that the participants reach the necessary topics and go in constructive directions. I think it’s as revolutionary as it is constructive.” 

James appreciates how GFP combines peer support with functional perspective:

“The model addresses mental illness issues effectively while developing practical skills.”

Human centric approach – adapting the GFP Model globally

Students are dedicated to assist Kukunori in scaling the GFP model on an international level. Through a comprehensive digital platform and informative websites, other organizations and communities can explore and seamlessly adopt the GFP model, empowering them to implement effectively.

Additionally, the team is exploring ways to adapt the GFP model to diverse cultural contexts by collaborating with local organizations and incorporating cultural sensitivity.

“I believe the GFP model can be adapted internationally by recognizing the cultural nuances of each region. Peer support principles are universal, but the way they are implemented needs to respect different social norms, mental health stigmas, and community structures”, Pubudu states.

Organizations that have adopted the GFP model exemplify the profound impact of communal support, highlighting its essential role in fostering connection and growth. Both Eleanor and Rebekka think that there is a universal need for such human contact points.

“I believe the GFP model is possible anywhere; the feelings of community and a desire for self-growth are intrinsic to human nature,” Eleanor says.

“Spaces like these are about learning and growing together, collaborating, and supporting one another. It’s a safe space where you will be heard and seen for the person you are, and not for the mental health issue you deal with. Societies need more spaces like this”, Rebekka affirms.

Building skills for a shared mission

For the students, the internship is more than professional development – it’s a chance to contribute to a meaningful global change.

“The empowerment within Kukunori’s community development initiatives and its work with diverse and inclusive communities, all contributing toward cultural progression, has inspired me to become an agent of change in mental health awareness”, James reflects.

Pubudu sees the experience as an opportunity to align his career goals with social impact:

“The opportunity to work on a global project allows me to combine my skills in digital business with my personal desire to contribute to mental health awareness. My goal is to integrate these learnings into my future career in Finland,” Pubudu shares.

Through these collaborations, Kukunori and its partners are scaling the GFP model while creating valuable learning opportunities for the next generation of changemakers.