Our story
Mukana Association was founded in the spring of 2026 in Hämeenkyrö, Finland, inspired by the unique multidisciplinary environment of Prikka Youth Centre. Every day, Prikka brings together professionals from different sectors who work with young people under one roof: teachers and instructors from flexible basic education (JOPO), municipal youth workers, outreach youth workers, Startti coaching professionals, and specialists from the One-Stop Guidance Centre (Ohjaamo).
Over the years, Prikka has taught us the value of sharing knowledge, crossing professional boundaries, and making the most of the expertise that surrounds us. It has shown us that by working together, being flexible, and supporting one another beyond traditional job descriptions, it is possible to build a community where both young people and adults can thrive.
Mukana Association was born from a desire to do more—and to do it differently. Through our work, we met young people and families who needed more than services; they needed time, meaningful encounters, supportive communities, and a genuine sense of belonging. At the same time, we realised that countless effective methods, innovative ideas, and valuable expertise remained isolated within individual organisations instead of being shared and put into everyday practice.
We also wanted to create youth work where neurodivergent young people are simply accepted as part of the group—without being defined by a diagnosis or treated as "different." Instead of expecting young people to adapt to existing structures, we believe in creating environments where everyone can participate as themselves.
Everything we do is driven by a commitment to building stronger communities where every young person feels they belong, recognises their own strengths, and believes in their potential. We want to discover new ways of working beyond the traditional boundaries of our professions while continuing to share and make use of our collective expertise.
Too many young people experience loneliness, exclusion, or difficulties finding their place at school, in their communities, or in society. Many families are left trying to navigate complex situations without enough support. One of our key goals is to develop community-based approaches that help young people experiencing school non-attendance reconnect with education and become active members of their school communities again.
We believe that participation does not happen by chance. It grows through meaningful encounters, strong communities, participatory methods, and safe environments where everyone is heard, valued, and respected.
Above all, we believe that the best ideas are created together. That is why we openly share our knowledge, learn from others, and work in partnership to build a future where every young person has the opportunity to belong, participate, and thrive.e...
Our values
Participation
Everyone has the right to be heard, respected, and involved as their authentic self. We create opportunities where every individual can feel valued and experience themselves as an integral part of a community.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Mukana Association develops its activities by combining expertise in education, youth work, pedagogy, and solution-focused neurodiversity coaching. Our goal is to create inclusive environments where as many young people as possible can participate, succeed, and find their place.
Belonging
Every person needs to feel that they belong somewhere. We strengthen young people's connection to education, communities, and society by creating safe spaces, meaningful experiences, and opportunities for participation. We believe that a strong sense of belonging promotes well-being, builds confidence, and empowers young people to shape their own future.
Community
Well-being is built together. We promote collaboration, trust, and a culture of care where no one is left behind.
Agency
We encourage young people to recognise their strengths, take initiative, and actively influence their own lives, their communities, and the future of Europe.
Learning and Courage
We believe that growth happens through curiosity, experimentation, and learning together. We continuously develop new approaches with an open mind and openly share our knowledge and experience—both locally and through international partnerships.
Impact
We want our work to create lasting change. We develop practical solutions that strengthen participation, well-being, and community life, both within local communities and across Europe through international cooperation.