In summer 2025, City of Tampere Public Cultural Services carried out the Culture Dreams in Hervanta survey. Responses revealed a strong sense of community and how it is the diversity of people that makes Hervanta what it is. The new podcast gives voice to both long-term residents and newcomers – each sharing their own viewpoint.
A year earlier, a neighbourhood development survey identified three key priorities for Hervanta, one of which was improving the area’s reputation. Residents hoped for more positive stories about Hervanta. Internationality was seen as a strength that could help build a positive image. The new podcast is one
way to respond to these wishes and showcase the many perspectives of Tampere’s largest and most diverse district.
The podcast is part of cultural activities organised by the Public Cultural Services in Tampere’s neighbourhoods – such as library events or the Kulttuuritarjotin programme that brings art close to older residents. Producing the podcast is part of the Culture Dreams experiment, where residents’ cultural wishes were collected in early summer and realised during autumn. Suggestions included activities for children and young people, ideas related to nature and outdoor activities, and thoughts on community life. Based on these wishes, Public Cultural Services organised concerts for people aged 65+, a torchlight walk to Suolijärvi, theatre play sessions at Toimela, and a dream map workshop for young people during the autumn break. Hervanta is also hosting a community art project culminating in a Neighbourhood Concert on Thursday 11 December and an exhibition opening at Hervanta Library on Monday 15 December.
The podcast features Hervanta residents from different walks of life. Episodes explore everyday stories, cultural encounters and the area’s identity – what makes Hervanta unique. Themes range from international street art and community spirit to entrepreneurship, young people’s dreams and visions for the future.
Episode 1 – International street art and rollator marches
The first episode dives into street art and cultural encounters. Sujitha Ravi paints an electrical cabinet near Etelä-Hervanta School and shares how art builds bridges between people. Warm memories of the area’s history are also shared by three elderly residents. Sujithas interview is in English.
Episode 2 – Community actors at the heart of the neighbourhood
The second episode explores the meaning of community and Hervanta’s development over the decades. Riitta Kraatila and Tiina Virnes reflect on where community spirit comes from, how it has changed and their hopes for the future.
Episode 3 – Entrepreneurs’ and children’s Hervanta – A place to dream and grow
The third episode tells the story of young barber entrepreneur Mukhtar Abdullahi Maye and his experiences of running a business. We also hear thoughts from boys in class 5B at Etelä-Hervanta School about their own Hervanta.
Commissioned by: City of Tampere Public Cultural Services
Produced by: Terhi Loimuneva / Loimu Communicares
