PERSPECTIVES

Long before the beginning of the Finnish welfare state, affluent individuals and companies shouldered the mantle of social welfare. Among them, the Ahlström company, under the stewardship of figures like Antti and Eva Ahlström, emerged as a supporter of philanthropy and progressive values. In exploring Ahlström’s legacy, we delve into the early roots of their social responsibility, tracing the family’s philanthropic endeavours from the Fennoman beginnings to the visionary initiatives of figures like Walter Ahlström. Through their patronage of education, healthcare, arts, and community development, the Ahlströms left an indelible mark on Finnish society, embodying the ethos that true prosperity entails uplifting all members of the community.

Jokaisella yrityksellä on vaikutuksia lapsiin toimialasta riippumatta, kirjoittavat Outi Kauppinen, Johanna Talvela ja Nelli Paasikivi-Ahlström.

The new book about Walter Ahlström’s Life – “KORKEA PELI,” was released on August 30, 2023. This book uncovers a previously untold part of Finland’s economic history, offering insight into Walter Ahlström’s life. It portrays him as a complex and controversial individual—a savvy and hard businessman, a visionary, and a loving husband with a passion for arts and music, all without embellishment.

The author Sakari Siltala has managed to create an exciting and compelling thriller about Walter’s life. The Ahlström family is proud that the Walter Ahlström Foundation took the initiative to document this important part of the family’s history and at the same time, Finland’s history. The book can be bought in major Finnish bookstores in Finnish or Swedish and later this Autumn also in English.

Everyone can contribute to a better world. That’s Maria Ahlström-Bondestam’s message. She prefers to talk about investments rather than donations, where the return is a better world.