Hello!
I am Jaakko Mustakallio, a 37-year-old mayoral candidate for the Greens in Tampere. I am a born-and-raised Tampere resident, currently living in Hervanta in the house we recently built. My family includes my wife, Alviina Alametsä, a Green Party Member of Parliament, and our soon-to-be-born daughter, whom we affectionately call “Pulla” for now.
I serve as Tampere’s Deputy Mayor for Education, Early Childhood Education, and Culture. I hold a Master’s degree in Economics, and my thesis focused on healthcare financing. My journey into politics began with Pekka Haavisto’s presidential campaign and the Green Party’s commitment to defending nature and human rights.
I want to make Tampere the capital of a good life—a city that provides security and hope for children, sparks intellectual curiosity in young people, brings the city’s soul to life through culture, and offers a chance to unwind in nearby nature.
Right now, we must put children and young people at the heart of Tampere’s development. While the city’s financial situation is challenging, we cannot cut back on the future. Instead, we must invest in schools, daycare centers, and high-quality education. The best way to improve the city’s economy is to boost employment and attract new businesses. These are the goals I am committed to working toward.
I have a diverse work background and understand the daily lives of ordinary Tampere residents. I have worked at Metso Minerals, as an assistant for people with disabilities, on construction sites, in a fast-food restaurant, and as a newspaper salesperson. Before becoming Deputy Mayor, I served as Vice CEO of Finnish Commuter Trains Ltd., a sustainability and communications consultant at Ellun Kanat, and an assistant to the chair of the Green parliamentary group. I have also worked as the Executive Director of Opiskelijan Tampere ry and held various positions in Tampere’s student community. My military rank is Lieutenant in the reserves.
Years in politics and working life have taught me that every story is valuable. As a decision-maker, I want to address injustices and drive change. I have been described as someone who gets things done—so much so that the nickname “Duracell Bunny” has stuck with me! As an optimist, I believe that challenges are overcome through action, not by giving up.
In my free time, I enjoy nature, ice swimming, movies, and football. Music is close to my heart—I played the violin for ten years.
I want every child and young person to have the opportunity for a good life and every family to have the support they need to provide it. Let’s also ensure that every child has a hobby that brings joy and hope for the future.
My goal is to make Tampere the capital of a good life. Welcome aboard!
Contact information:
jaakko.mustakallio@tampere.fi