

Ingrid
Wester
Pietarsaari
"For young and old, for culture and community - together we shape the future of Jakobstad"
I am a young woman with a vision for Jakobstad. A city where culture, children, and youth are at the heart. I want everyone, regardless of age, to feel that they belong and that their voice is heard. I want our city to be a place where community is strong, where we all can contribute to creating an environment where there is an opportunity to grow and thrive. A place where creativity, culture, and collaboration can flourish, and where we recognize the value of every individual and every contribution. Together, we can build a city where no one is left behind, where we build bridges between generations and create a future that is sustainable, inclusive, and full of opportunities for all. A place where we, together, build the Jakobstad of the future. A city where everyone can feel at home.
As a member of the Swedish Youths organisation board, the Ostrobothnia Welfare Area Youth Council, and vice-chair of the Jakobstad Youth Council, I know that there is a need for young people to be involved in decision-making. One age group cannot govern society. Everyone is needed to create a society where all can feel included and safe.
I want to be part of building a future where we all, young and old, stand together for a city that is more than just a place, a city that is our shared heart.
Important political topics
Children, Youth, and Families
Children, young people and families are the future, and their well-being is the basis for sustainable and inclusive societal development. By investing in their health, education and safety, we create a stronger and more cohesive city. It is important to me that all children and young people are given equal opportunities to grow, and that families are supported to live good and balanced lives.
To include children in decision-making, I am in favour of giving youth councils the right to speak and take initiatives in the city council.
The best schools
The best school is about giving every student the best conditions to grow and develop. For me, this means creating an inclusive and stimulating learning environment where everyone gets the help and resources they need to reach their full potential. A strong school is the key to a better future for both individuals and society.
I support efforts to increase the number of teaching hours in aesthetic subjects in primary education. It is an investment in a creative, empathetic and sustainable future.
Culture and Leisure
Culture and leisure are important for creating a vibrant and cohesive city. By supporting culture and leisure activities, we give everyone, young and old, the opportunity to express themselves, develop and create community. A strong cultural scene and broad leisure opportunities are a foundation for both personal development and an inclusive society.
I believe that it is important that everyone, regardless of age, should have the opportunity to take part in different cultural experiences. Culture is a source of creativity, critical thinking and empathy. Taking part in art, music, theatre and literature gives people the opportunity to reflect on both themselves and the world around them. It is through culture that we learn to understand other people and their perspectives and develop our emotional intelligence. This is crucial to building an inclusive and sustainable society.
Candidate's answers in election machine
1 / 14
We need a youth center in the town center.
It is important that there is a safe and secure place where youths can gather in the evenings!
2 / 14
Considering the development and competitiveness of the business sector, we should merge with neighboring municipalities.
While there are advantages to a merger, I also believe that there are already good conditions for deeper cooperation between the municipalities without a merger.
3 / 14
We need more tourism investments in Fäboda.
I support the development of recreational areas in Fäboda, but I believe that nature should be preserved, as it is a tourist attraction in itself.
4 / 14
Early childhood education should be free for everyone.
In order for more children to have the opportunity to participate in early childhood education, I believe it is important that it becomes free of charge. But at the same time, someone has to pay for it, and there may be risks of exploiting the system.
5 / 14
Schools should prioritize traditional textbooks over digital learning materials.
I completely agree that schools should prioritize traditional textbooks, as they promote concentration and learning in a proven way. However, I believe that digital learning materials can be a valuable complement, especially for interactive exercises and access to up-to-date information.
6 / 14
One of the municipality’s most important tasks is to invest in sports facilities and opportunities for exercise and recreation.
I agree that investing in sports facilities as well as exercise and recreation opportunities is one of the municipality\\\\\\\'s most important tasks. They contribute to public health, increase well-being, and create an attractive living environment for residents of all ages.
7 / 14
It is important to provide all residents with equal opportunities for cultural activities.
I completely agree that all residents should be offered equal opportunities to participate in cultural activities. Culture enriches life, promotes community, and contributes to an inclusive society where everyone can participate and express themselves.
8 / 14
The municipality should introduce or improve opportunities for residents to influence how municipal funds are used through participatory budgeting.
I believe it is important that the residents have the opportunity to influence where the money goes, but mainly it is the politicians\' responsibility. Therefore, I support the system that we already have where residents have the opportunity to influence part of the city\'s budget.
9 / 14
The municipality should invest in public transportation.
I do think it is important to have access to public transport, but at the same time, I also believe that it is important to develop opportunities for getting around the city by bicycle, among other means.
10 / 14
It should be possible to be a resident in more than one municipality, for example, through digital municipal citizenship.
For students, this would be beneficial since many want to study in another city while still being registered in their home municipality. However, I believe that it requires careful regulation to avoid administrative problems and injustices.
11 / 14
The municipality should better facilitate the expansion of renewable energy, such as solar and wind power.
I agree that the municipality should facilitate the expansion of renewable energy, as it is important for a sustainable future. However, at the same time, I believe it must be done with consideration for local conditions, natural values, the living environment, and the economy.
12 / 14
The municipality should mix more housing types in planning than is currently the case.
I agree that mixing different types of housing can create a more vibrant and inclusive municipality. At the same time, I believe it is important that planning considers demand, the character of the area, and infrastructure so that development happens in a balanced way.
13 / 14
The municipality should introduce anonymous recruitment.
Anonymous recruitment can be a good method to ensure a fairer and competence-based selection process. At the same time, it is important to remember that a comprehensive assessment of the candidate takes place during the interview phase, where personal qualities and experience also play a role.
14 / 14
If you could give a superpower to your future political leader, what would it be?
Having infinite wisdom and the ability to make wise decisions can in itself lead to solutions for saving the environment, combating corruption, and improving the future.