The vibrant Hazara Culture Day Festival was held on June 14, 2025, at the Järvenpää-Talo Hall in Finland, bringing together human rights activists, members of civil society, representatives of migrant rights organizations, and a large gathering of Hazaras and Afghans living in Finland.
The event was hosted by Ms. Kamela Zahedi, Arezu Ahmadi, and Mr. Hossein Ansari. It began with an opening speech by Ms. Shekeba Ahmadi, Deputy Director of the Hazara Culture House in Finland. She emphasized the importance of preserving cultural identity and protecting historical heritage, highlighting the vital role of unity and awareness among migrant generations and the dynamic influence of culture within the Hazara community.
Following this, Ms. Inka Hopsu, a member of the Finnish Parliament, and Ms. Sanna Valtonen, a human rights activist and advocate for migrant rights, delivered speeches underscoring the value of cultural diversity, minority rights, and the need for cultural exchange between migrant communities and the host society.
The atmosphere of the hall was filled with joy and excitement thanks to a performance by the “Shirin Hazara” choir, which sang about Hazara culture and its core values—love for knowledge, peace, and the pursuit of a better future. Another speaker, Ms. Tiia Lintula, a representative of the city of Järvenpää, expressed her appreciation for the festival being held in the city. Mr. Aliyar Behsudi and Mr. Farhad Amini recited profound poems celebrating Hazara culture and its distinct characteristics. The Salsal Modeling Team presented traditional Hazara clothing and attire, showcasing the richness and diversity of Hazara fashions.
Hazara Culture House also extended appreciation for Ms. Inka Hopsu, Member of the Finnish Parliament, for her continued support of migrants—particularly the Hazara community—and for personally hosting three Hazara youths in her home. Ms. Leena Kaartinen, for her long-standing engagement and work in the Hazarajat region. Ms. Kirsti Hamströmi, for her dedicated support of migrants and the Hazara community in Finland. The festival also honored Mr. Nasrullah Paik, a distinguished filmmaker and photographer from West Kabul known for documenting the resistance. He was presented with a certificate of appreciation for his contributions and efforts in preserving historical narratives through his works.
The second part of the program featured a live performance by the famous Hazara singer Hamid Sakhizada and his team. Their live music brought unforgettable moments of joy and revived memories of Afghanistan and Hazara folk music.
An exhibition added another colorful layer to the festival, showcasing historical photographs, paintings, handicrafts, books related to Hazara history and culture, traditional foods, and local attire—offering a vibrant window into the richness of Hazara heritage.
