ProCom reactivates its network for international communication professionals

Crossing North: The International Comms Network exists to bring together communication professionals from around the world who are navigating the unique challenges and opportunities of the Finnish communication landscape.

Through collaboration with ProCom, the network connects international and Finnish communication professionals to foster knowledge exchange and share expertise. Together, we're building a platform that elevates professional capabilities and unlocks the potential of Finland's existing global communications community. The network’s events are open to anyone interested in the topic, including communication professionals outside our membership of ProCom. Events are organised by the chairs, Kim Oguilve and Jana Avdeeva, and the first online event will be held in March.

Network Activities

Through regular webinars, panel discussions, meetups, and curated knowledge sessions, Crossing North provides opportunities to:

• Understand the nuances of Finnish business, media, and cultural communication
• Exchange practical insights on strategy, reputation, crisis and internal comms, and brand storytelling
• Build a supportive community of peers and mentors in international communication

Open to communicators at all levels—from seasoned global leads to those newly engaging with the Finnish market—Crossing North is built on shared learning, authentic connection, and cultural respect. Bringing together diverse expertise and experiences is essential to navigate complexity, stay relevant, and stand out in today's world.

Upcoming Events

Crossing North’s first event on March 12th will focus on Finland's communication culture and media landscape. Guest speakers Atte Palomäki and Paula Sonne will provide insights into the unique characteristics that set Finnish communication and media apart, helping you better understand their distinct approach.

In one hour, you'll gain foundational knowledge of the cultural values, business communication norms, and media ecosystem that define this market—essential context for anyone working in communications functions within Finnish organizations. This session will equip you with foundational knowledge to navigate Finnish communication culture and its media ecosystem.

What you’ll learn:

Finnish Communication Culture

• Core cultural values that shape how Finland communicates
• Business communication norms and expectations
• Communications landscape inside Finnish organizations of various sizes

The Finnish Media Landscape

• Media ecosystem overview: national vs. regional outlets, Yle's unique role
• Which outlets matter most and why (tier system and influence)
• Finnish journalism principles
• Current editorial priorities and sensitive topics to understand
• Key differences from other media markets

Register via the event calendar >

Meet the Co-Chairs

Kim Oguilve is a communications and marketing professional with over a decade of experience helping technology companies strengthen their reputation and expand visibility through integrated marketing and communications programs. She played a key role in building one of Finland’s leading startup community brands, Maria 01, and helped position Revieve as a category leader in AI- and AR-powered beauty technology through global PR and thought leadership initiatives. Most recently at Synergi, she established and scaled the marketing and communications function for a new energy brand, building its foundation for growth and market impact.

Jana Avdeeva is a communications and marketing professional with a decade of experience in B2B SaaS and tech sectors. She has led strategic communication initiatives focused on maritime digitalisation and decarbonisation at Wärtsilä, established and led the marketing function within the space startup ReOrbit, and now fosters human-centric IT experience storytelling at HappySignals. Jana is passionate about connecting complex technologies with audience-centric narratives that drive engagement and value.