Village of the Year

Kymenlaakson Kylät ry annually selects the Kymenlaakso Village of the Year!

Proposals for the Kymenlaakso Village of the Year are accepted until the end of December each year. In addition, nominations are invited for individuals who have made significant contributions to village activities and the vitality of rural areas.

The purpose of the selections is to highlight the diverse work carried out in the villages and to increase awareness and visibility of village activities. The goal is to identify active villages and neighborhoods, recognize successful local initiatives, and share inspiring examples of village development with others.

The regional selection committee—comprising representatives from Kymenlaakson Kylät ry, Leader Pohjois-Kymen Kasvu, Leader Sepra, the Regional Council of Kymenlaakso, and the previous Village of the Year—reviews the nominations. The Regional Board of Kymenlaakso confirms the selections in the spring and awards a prize of €1,500 to the Kymenlaakso Village of the Year.

Each year’s regional winner is automatically entered into the Finnish Village of the Year competition, coordinated by the Finnish Villages Association (Suomen Kylät ry).

Selection Criteria

The choice of the Kymenlaakso Village of the Year emphasizes planning, long-term commitment, innovative activities, and a forward-looking approach to village development. Particular attention is given to comprehensive development efforts within the village.

Active participation, collaboration, and awareness of the community’s potential for local development are considered strong assets. Networking, local services, communication, and business promotion are also recognized as important aspects of systematic village development.

Individual Awards

The selection committee may, either based on nominations or at its own discretion, also honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to village activities. Suggestions for these recognitions can be submitted to Kymenlaakso Villages Association alongside the Village of the Year nominations.

Application Process

Kymenlaakson Kylät ry announces the opening of the Village of the Year nomination round each year at the beginning of December. Proposals can be submitted throughout the year by email to toimisto@kymenlaaksonkylat.fi, or by mail to:

Kymenlaakson Kylät ry

Porukkatalo, 3rd floor

Savonkatu 23

45100 Kouvola, Finland