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Co-funded by the European Union.
Five colleagues of different ages and backgrounds sit around a wooden conference table in a modern office, with laptops, notebooks and drinks, smiling and engaged in a lively discussion.

Diversity as a strength in the workplace (VALTTI)

We help workplaces turn diversity into a strength and build more inclusive working life.

Diversity. Inclusion. Better workplaces.

Diversity as a strength in the workplace (VALTTI) is an ESF+ funded development project coordinated by JAMK University of Applied Sciences, with Humak University of Applied Sciences acting as a project partner. The project is implemented nationwide from 1.8.2026 to 31.5.2029 in cooperation with companies and other working life organisations. Its main target groups are workplaces seeking to improve diversity management, inclusion, equality and their ability to respond to the changing needs of working life.

Working life is becoming increasingly diverse, yet many organisations still need practical tools and expertise to recognise and benefit from diversity. VALTTI addresses this need through workplace-based development processes, workshops, training activities and pilot initiatives. Humak contributes expertise in community development, participation, equality and inclusive workplace practices.

Goals

The aim of the VALTTI project is to strengthen the ability of Finnish workplaces to recognise, value and utilise diversity as part of everyday working life, leadership and organisational development.

Humak’s role focuses especially on recognising diversity within workplaces, supporting participatory development and helping organisations create practical and sustainable ways of working together. The project seeks to increase competence, strengthen inclusion and equality, and support workplaces in responding to the changing needs of working life.

The project will produce practical models, tools and good practices that can continue to benefit organisations after the project has ended. VALTTI combines real workplace needs, staff participation and long-term organisational development within a nationwide partnership.

Implementation: How we work with the organisations

In the Valtti project we develop workplaces through a practical step-by-step process together with employees and leadership.

Identify

See diversity

We make diversity visible by exploring the different backgrounds, experiences, strengths and perspectives within the workplace. Together, we identify both existing strengths and areas for development.

Round pink badge featuring two overlapping purple speech bubbles — one with a small sprouting leaf and the other with a heart — above the word "ACKNOWLEDGE," symbolizing communication, growth, and care.

Acknowledge

Understand diversity

We take time to listen to diverse experiences and understand their significance. Through dialogue, we build a shared understanding of how workplace practices affect people in different ways.

Icon showing two interlocking puzzle pieces forming a rectangle with a heart at their joining point and two sparkle stars nearby, placed on an irregular rounded background with a surrounding wavy outline and the word ADAPT below

Adapt

Improve together

Based on our findings, we develop and test practical improvements that support a more inclusive, equitable and effective working environment.

Illustration of an open hand holding three small seedlings with heart-shaped leaves growing from mounds of soil on a pink abstract background, with the word "EMBED" beneath, symbolizing nurturing growth and inclusion.

Emberd

Make it stick

We help workplaces integrate succesful practices into everyday operations so that positive change continues beyond the project.

Project Manager

Ella Salokorpi

Ella Salokorpi

Specialist Tampere office
0400 349 246

Sustainable Development Goals

  • 8. Decent work and economic growth
  • 10. Reduced inequalities
  • 16. Peace, justice and strong institutions