Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland
"Give us the fortitude to endure the things which cannot be changed, the courage to change the things which should be changed, and the wisdom to know one from the other."
Unity in Culture, Strength in Community - Àjọṣe ni agbára wa.
About AYDF
The Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland (AYDF), founded in November 1997, is a vibrant non-profit dedicated to preserving Yoruba heritage and fostering integration in Finland.
Vision & Mission
Vision: To be the foremost platform for Yoruba cultural preservation and integration in Finland.
Mission: Foster unity, preserve Yoruba heritage, promote integration, and enhance member welfare.
Our Objectives
- Promote Yoruba culture, language, and traditions.
- Facilitate integration into Finnish society.
- Build global partnerships.
- Support new immigrants and host cultural events.
Who We Are
The Yoruba community is found nearly everywhere in the world but has its origin in Nigeria. The Yorubas believe that Oduduwa, the son of Oranmiyan, was the messenger of Olodumare (God). The Yoruba have a long and rich history blessed with great mythologies, traditions, and cultural heritage.
The Yoruba people come from the Western and South-Western parts of Nigeria, with a total population of approximately 40 million worldwide. This number includes Yorubas in Latin America and other parts of the world. Yoruba culture is highly conservative, such that Yoruba cultural practices continue wherever Yoruba people establish themselves.
HISTORY OF AYDF
In late 1997, some influential Nigerians of Yoruba origin residing in Finland decided to create a forum where their people could meet, socialize, communicate, and brainstorm together. Their goal was to facilitate an easy and harmonious integration into Finnish society while preserving their cultural identity.
Their collective vision, motto, and objectives became the foundation for the Association. The Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland (AYDF) was formally established in November 1997 and registered as a non-governmental organization (NGO) with the Finnish authorities. An executive body was elected to oversee the affairs of the newly formed Association, with Mr. Tony Adekunle serving as the founding President and Mr. Oyebola Akinboyewa as the founding General Secretary.
Since its inception, the Association has distinguished itself as a serious and well-focused organization. It has participated in numerous cultural and social activities, including the Maailma Kylässä (World Village) festival in 1998 organized by KEPA. The Association has also conducted many family-oriented activities and non-profit projects to benefit its members and the wider community.
Throughout its existence, the Association has grown in membership and impact, continuously focusing on development, integration, and cultural preservation. This association represents our collective commitment to these founding principles and our vision for the future.
Our Leadership Team
Meet the dedicated acting executive members driving our mission forward
Mr. Waliu Adewumi
President
Mr. Temitope Ajayi
General Secretary
Mrs. Bukola Johnson
Treasurer / Financial Secretary
Mrs. Ebunoluwa Kivinen
Women Coordinator
Mr. Oluwasina Osokoya
Men Coordinator
Mrs. Olaitan Hassan
Social / Welfare
Mr. Mathew Adekojo
Public Relations Officer (PRO)
Our Activities
Celebrating culture, building community, and fostering growth through diverse programs
Cultural Festivals
Join us at events like Maailma Kylässä to celebrate Yoruba music, dance, and traditions with the wider Finnish community.
Skills Workshops
Hands-on workshops ranging from digital literacy to entrepreneurial skills, tailored to empower our community members with practical knowledge and expertise.
Community Support
Access comprehensive support networks, family events, and welfare programs designed to strengthen our community bonds.
Some of our Events
AYDF Nutrition and Health Seminar: The Role of Food in Disease Prevention and Reversal
The Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland (AYDF) is pleased to invite members and friends of the community to a timely and impactful Nutrition & Health Seminar focused on how everyday food choices can play a powerful role in preventing, and even reversing common diseases. In today’s world, lifestyle-related health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and heart disease are on the rise. This seminar aims to empower participants with practical, science-based knowledge on how nutrition can be used as a tool for long-term health and wellness. Join the Seminar here: https://meet.google.com/zjg-jbbe-epm Guest Lecturer: Mrs. Olaitan Hassan (MSc. Human Nutrition)Founder & Chief Consultant, Food as Medicine Nutrition Consultancy Services Mrs. Hassan is a seasoned nutrition professional with a strong passion for using food as a therapeutic and preventive tool. She will share insights drawn from research, professional practice, and real-life applications, making the session both informative and practical. Seminar Topic: The Role of Food in Disease Prevention & Reversal Participants will learn: How diet influences chronic and lifestyle-related diseases The concept of “food as medicine” and how to apply it daily Practical nutrition strategies for healthier living How culturally familiar foods can support better health outcomes Event Details: Date: Sunday, February 8th, 2026 Time: 5:00 - 7:00 PM (prompt) Format: Online (Google Meet) How to Join: This seminar will be held online via Google Meet. Participation is simple, just click the link below at the scheduled time: Join the Seminar: https://meet.google.com/zjg-jbbe-epm This event is open to all, whether you’re passionate about healthy living, managing a health condition, or simply looking to make better food choices for yourself and your family. We look forward to your participation as we learn, share, and grow together as a community. AYDF - Promoting wellness, knowledge, and cultural unity.
Learn More
ÌJÁDÈ – YORÙBÁ DAY 2025
The Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland (AYDF) is delighted to invite you to ÌJÁDÈ – YORÙBÁ DAY 2025, a full-day cultural celebration dedicated to honoring and showcasing the beauty, strength, and spirit of the Yorùbá people living in Finland and beyond. A Grand Celebration of Heritage, Culture, and Unity in Finland Date: Saturday, August 9, 2025 Time: 11:00 AM Venue: Servin Mökki, Jämeräntaival 4, Espoo, Finland What is ÌJÁDÈ? ‘ÌJÁDÈ’, meaning The Outing in the Yorùbá language, symbolizes a public display of our heritage – a joyful gathering that brings our people together in unity, identity, and cultural pride. It is a moment to reflect on our roots, reconnect with our community, and share the richness of our traditions with friends, families, and well-wishers. What to Expect on This Special Day 1. Cultural Extravaganza Enjoy authentic Yorùbá performances including traditional music, dance, poetry, and storytelling that revive the rhythm of our ancestry. 2. Yorùbá Culinary Delights Taste the best of Yorùbá cuisine, from jollof rice to amala, efo riro, moin-moin, and more — lovingly prepared to bring the flavors of home to your plate. 3. Inspiring Talks and Community Dialogue Participate in engaging discussions on Yorùbá history, values, parenting, language preservation, and the role of culture in our diasporic identity. 4. Traditional Fashion Parade Show off your agbada, iro and buba, aso oke, gele, and beads in our colorful cultural runway as we celebrate the artistry of Yorùbá fashion. 5. Drumming, Dancing, and Award Presentations Let the bata and talking drums lead your feet in joyful movement. We will also recognize individuals and families who have contributed meaningfully to our community. 6. Family & Community Bonding The event is family-friendly with games, children’s corner, networking opportunities, and more. Come with your loved ones and connect with fellow descendants in an atmosphere of warmth and belonging. Dress Code: Traditional Yorùbá Attire Only This is our day to shine, to represent, and to stand tall in our cultural pride. Let your dressing reflect your identity — elegantly and boldly Yorùbá! Why You Should Attend In a world that is constantly changing, ÌJÁDÈ – YORÙBÁ DAY 2025 is our way of preserving who we are, teaching the younger generation about their heritage, and building a stronger, more united community. Whether you're a descendant, spouse, friend, ally, or admirer of the Yorùbá people, your presence will add meaning to this day. Come one, come all. Let us celebrate our language, food, fashion, values, and unity together — in Finland, with pride. Spread the Word We encourage everyone to invite their friends and families. The event is open to all lovers of culture and diversity. Stay Connected Follow us on social media and our group platforms for updates, volunteer opportunities, vendor registration, and sponsorship details. Let’s make history. Let’s make it colorful. Let’s make it memorable. Ẹ káàbọ̀ si ÌJÁDÈ – YORÙBÁ DAY 2025!
Learn MoreLatest News
Stay updated with the latest community news and announcements
Cross Paths - A Powerful New Film by Damilare Olalude
The Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland (AYDF) is proud to spotlight one of our own, Damilare Olalude, on the successful completion of his independent film project, Cross Paths. Cross Paths is a deeply human, character-driven story that explores themes of healing, resilience, and the search for belonging after difficult life experiences. The film was produced in Kuopio, Finland, through a remarkable grassroots effort, bringing together a diverse and cross-cultural cast, many of whom are first-time actors. What makes this project truly inspiring is its foundation. Developed without external funding, Cross Paths reflects the power of community, collaboration, and determination. It stands as a strong example of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose. Damilare Olalude, originally from Ogun State, Nigeria, is a filmmaker with over a decade of experience in the industry. With a strong background in cinematography, he has grown into a director focused on telling meaningful, character-driven stories that connect across cultures. Cross Paths marks his first independent short film produced in Finland. The film is currently in post-production, with its official premiere scheduled for September 11 at Kuvakukko, Kuopio. At AYDF, we celebrate this milestone as a win not just for Damilare, but for our entire community. His journey reflects creativity, resilience, and the growing impact of Africans in Finland’s creative space. Support the journey:Let’s show love and support by following his work on Instagram and staying updated on the film’s progress.https://www.instagram.com/cross_paths_film?igsh=bHdwMTNyaTkwOGt5
Read More
AYDF VAPPU HANG-OUT 2026, SUCCESS REPORT
The Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland (AYDF) is delighted to share the success of our Vappu Hang-Out 2026, held on May 1st at Kaivopuisto Park, Helsinki. It was truly a beautiful day filled with laughter, connection, and shared joy as members, families, and friends came together to celebrate the season. The atmosphere reflected unity, culture, and the strength of our community spirit. From meaningful conversations to moments of fun and relaxation, the event lived up to its purpose of bringing us closer as one family. We sincerely appreciate everyone who came out to be part of this special gathering. Your presence made the event lively and memorable. To those who supported in various ways, whether through contributions, coordination, or encouragement, we say a heartfelt thank you. Your efforts did not go unnoticed. A special appreciation goes to our Welfare Committee for their excellent organization and dedication in ensuring everything ran smoothly. Your commitment and teamwork made a significant difference. We also extend our gratitude to the Executive Committee (Excos) for their leadership and coordination, and to the Board of Trustees (BOT) for their continuous guidance and support. Your roles remain vital in sustaining the vision and growth of AYDF. Finally, we celebrate all our members for truly embodying the spirit of Ọmọluabi, a reflection of good character, respect, responsibility, and unity. This is what makes AYDF not just an association, but a family. As we look ahead, we remain committed to creating more meaningful moments together. Thank you all, and we look forward to even greater gatherings ahead. AYDF… One Family, One Voice. ❤️
Read MoreLatest Resources
Explore our latest ebooks, videos, documents and curated links
EURO MINDSET
INTRODUCTIONThe Reality of Moving to FinlandFinland looks rich from the outside. Clean streets, good salaries, free education, strong currency. But from the inside, every euro is already spoken for before it enters your account, rent, tax, insurance, bus card, food, bills, remittance home. Many Africans earn 2,500 euros and still feel broke at month end. This is not because they are careless. It is because no one taught them the math of Finnish life.Expectations vs RealityYou may arrive thinking "one euro is 1,800 naira, I will be rich." That math is dangerous. In Finland, one euro is one euro, and one euro disappears fast. A single cup of coffee outside is 4 euros. A 30-day bus card in Helsinki is 68 euros. A small two-room apartment is 900 to 1,200 euros. Reality is expensive.Cultural Transition: From Yoruba/African to Nordic LifeIn Yoruba culture, money is to be shared, with parents, siblings, church, extended family, community. In Finland, if you share without planning, you destroy yourself and still cannot help your people in a sustainable way. The new mindset is: build first, give forever.Why This Book MattersFinancial stress is the number one reason African marriages fail in Finland, the number one reason students drop out, and the number one reason families return home defeated. This book exists to break that cycle.What You Will GainYou will learn the real cost of Finnish life, how taxes and benefits interact, how to save and invest in a high-cost country, how to send money home without destroying yourself, and how to build long-term wealth, a house, a business, and generational freedom.
View Resource
Pay The Bills, Keep the Dream
Author: Temitope Ajayi.In collaboration with The Association of Yoruba Descendants in Finland The Reality of the Gap YearYou came to Finland for a career. You had a plan, a degree, a dream. Maybe engineering, nursing, IT, business, teaching, research. You sent 40, 80, 200 applications. You got silence, or polite rejections, or one interview that went nowhere. Meanwhile, rent is due. The electricity bill is due. Family back home is calling. Winter is here. And the career door is still not opening.Expectations vs RealityThe honest truth: the gap between arrival in Finland and landing a job in your field is usually 6 to 36 months. For some it is even longer. Language, credentials, network, discrimination, market size, all of it slows the process. During those months, you still have to eat. You still have to pay 900 to 1,400 euros of rent. You still have to survive. The question is not whether to take a survival job. The question is which one, how to do it smart, and how to make it serve your bigger dream instead of killing it.Cultural Transition: Dropping the Wrong ShameMany of us grew up in homes where a graduate who drove a taxi or cleaned an office was seen as a failure. In Finland, the shame math is different. A Finnish professor washes his own toilet and mows his own grass. The local bus driver might be a former engineer from Iraq. Physical work is not shameful here, untaxed and undeclared work is. This book asks you to drop one old shame, and take on a new discipline.Why This Book MattersToo many talented African immigrants in Finland sit at home for a year, burn through savings, fall into depression, lose their residence permit conditions, and finally return home defeated, when a 1,800 euro monthly cleaning or delivery job could have paid their bills, built their Finnish CV, funded their language course, and kept their dream alive for two more years until the real career door opened. This book exists because nobody sat us down and said it plainly.What You Will GainYou will know exactly which survival jobs pay the rent in Finland, what each one really pays after tax, what licenses and cards you need, how to get started in 2 to 4 weeks, which ones exploit immigrants, which ones build your Finnish CV, which ones destroy your body, and how to exit them when your real job finally arrives. No hype. No shame. Just the practical map.
View Resource
Understanding Tax and Finance in Finland, and Essential Guide for Immigrants and Student | Sep 2025 Session
Hosted by Ajayi Temitope, featuring expert speaker Busayo Apanishile (Accountant & Advisor at Finovate Reps Consult), this live community info session breaks down everything you need to know for smooth integration as a new immigrant, student, or entrepreneur. Whether you're in Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, or connecting from Nigeria/Europe, this is your roadmap to financial confidence, no more confusion! Recorded on Sep 20, 2025. (Transcript note: Auto-generated; minor errors possible.)Key Topics Covered: Taxes 101: Get your tax card (verokortti) to avoid 60% withholding, apply via OmaVero! Deductions & Refunds: Claim travel, work tools, union fees, donations (even church tithes if registered), and remote work setup. File annual returns in spring (March-May) for refunds, back up to 3 years! Budgeting Rule: Use the simple 70-10-10-10 framework on your net salary (e.g., €1,500 example: 70% living expenses, 10% giving/personal growth, 10% short-term savings, 10% long-term investments). Kela Benefits: Unemployment, child/parental allowances, housing support, student health insurance, call Kela Hub to check eligibility (it's easier than you think!). For Entrepreneurs/Freelancers: Register as sole trader (toiminimi) or Oy (limited company), VAT thresholds (€20,000 turnover), pension insurance (YEL), and invoicing tips.Q&A Highlights: Students: Health insurance via FSHS (not Kela), free clinic visits & dental. Freelancers: Use invoicing services (e.g., UKKO.fi) for automatic tax withholding. Tax on earnings over €15,000: Only the excess is taxed, prorated across the year (e.g., 3% on €18k total = ~€90 effective on €3k excess). Pensions: Set up extra for side businesses, it's tax-deductible!Pro Tips from Busayo: Join a trade union for 70% salary during unemployment (fees deductible). Track earnings mid-year and update your tax estimate to avoid big end-of-year bills. For startups: Apply for KHA startup grants, get a business advisor first!
View ResourceJoin Our Community
Become part of a vibrant community dedicated to preserving culture and building bridges
Full Membership
For Yoruba descendants in Finland with full voting rights and access to all services.
Family Membership
For spouses and children of full members, fostering family unity.
Associat Membership
For non-Yorubas interested in our culture and community activities.
Honorary Membership
For exceptional contributors to our community and mission.
Connect with Us on WhatsApp
Join our WhatsApp group for real-time updates and community support!
Find Fellow Members
Connect with your community, build professional networks, and strengthen the bonds that unite us across Finland
Professional Networking
Discover members in your field or industry. Share career opportunities, seek mentorship, or collaborate on professional projects within our community.
Business Partnerships
Find potential business partners, suppliers, or customers within our network. Build economic ties that strengthen both individual success and community prosperity.
Social Connections
Connect with members in your city, find families with children of similar ages, or discover neighbors who share your interests and hobbies.
Cultural Exchange
Share traditions, organize cultural events, practice Yoruba language together, or plan trips back home with fellow community members.
Support Network
Find members who can provide guidance on integration, housing, education, or any challenges you may face while living in Finland.
Community Building
Organize local meetups, start interest groups, coordinate community service projects, or plan regional gatherings to strengthen our collective presence.
Ready to Connect?
Use our member search feature to find members by location, profession, interests, or skills. Build meaningful connections that enrich your experience in Finland.
Our Partners
Meet the organizations and businesses that support our community
Asian Afro Makuja
Riihimäki
We created this store to be a true home for our community—a place where you ca...
View Partner
Blinkie Cakes and Food
Helsinki, Uusima
Blinkie cakes and food is a passionate baker, native food chef and dedicated cul...
View Partner
Discover Yoruba
Nigeria
Discover Yoruba is more than a website; it’s a movement to reconnect with our ...
View Partner
F’Joy Creative Group Oy
Espoo
F’Joy Creative Group Oy is a women-led circular creative group based in Finlan...
View Partner
Finovate Accounting Services
Helsinki, Uusima
We understand entrepreneurs unique challenges and have deep expertise in support...
View Partner
Food as Medicine
Helsinki
The company serves individuals, families, corporate organizations, and community...
View Partner
MAW Puhtaasti Puhdasta
Turku
Our journey started small, with a few dedicated individuals who believed in the ...
View Partner
MT Cleaning Oy
Oulu
MT Siivous (MT Cleaning Oy) is a professional cleaning company based in Oulu, Fi...
View Partner
Nwodo’s Award Market
Uusima, Finland
Nwodo’s Award Market was created to make authentic African groceries easily ac...
View Partner
Rayvo Travels Limited
Lagos, Nigeria
Rayvo Travels Limited is a fully accredited travel and logistics company dedicat...
View Partner
Topsite Consult
Vantaa, Uusima
We specialize in end-to-end web development, custom applications, branding, and ...
View Partner
Travel with Middle
Vantaa
Travel with Middle is a professional travel and tour consultancy committed to ma...
View Partner
Asian Afro Makuja
Riihimäki
We created this store to be a true home for our community—a place where you ca...
View Partner
Blinkie Cakes and Food
Helsinki, Uusima
Blinkie cakes and food is a passionate baker, native food chef and dedicated cul...
View Partner
Discover Yoruba
Nigeria
Discover Yoruba is more than a website; it’s a movement to reconnect with our ...
View Partner
F’Joy Creative Group Oy
Espoo
F’Joy Creative Group Oy is a women-led circular creative group based in Finlan...
View Partner
Finovate Accounting Services
Helsinki, Uusima
We understand entrepreneurs unique challenges and have deep expertise in support...
View Partner
Food as Medicine
Helsinki
The company serves individuals, families, corporate organizations, and community...
View Partner
MAW Puhtaasti Puhdasta
Turku
Our journey started small, with a few dedicated individuals who believed in the ...
View Partner
MT Cleaning Oy
Oulu
MT Siivous (MT Cleaning Oy) is a professional cleaning company based in Oulu, Fi...
View Partner
Nwodo’s Award Market
Uusima, Finland
Nwodo’s Award Market was created to make authentic African groceries easily ac...
View Partner
Rayvo Travels Limited
Lagos, Nigeria
Rayvo Travels Limited is a fully accredited travel and logistics company dedicat...
View Partner
Topsite Consult
Vantaa, Uusima
We specialize in end-to-end web development, custom applications, branding, and ...
View Partner
Travel with Middle
Vantaa
Travel with Middle is a professional travel and tour consultancy committed to ma...
View PartnerGet in Touch
Ready to join our community or have questions? We'd love to hear from you!
Contact Information
Address
AYDF Office, Helsinki, Finland
info@yorubainfinland.com
Phone
+358403709473