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Personal Reflection/Anecdote

Sweden—representing Linkoping, Uppsala,
and Boras—lunched together. In the afternoon,
the workshops continued, the Expo opened
again, and another coffee break was provided.
After four o’clock, there was a possibility
to visit the Moomin museum or Dinosaur
Exhibition. The Swedish women chose the
Moomin museum, an experiential art museum
for fans of Tove Jonsson’s Moomin characters.
We were all very impressed with the display of
Moomin life, including Moomin homes during
different times of the year. Afterwards, we were
able to buy our own little Moomin to bring
home.
Early that evening, the Night in the Park
began. Girl Scouts hosted different interactive
activities, and we listened to a young man
playing the accordion. Some of the Swedish
Members of DKG California attend Night in the Park at women went to a recommended restaurant
the 2023 International Conference in Tampere, Finland. in town. We tried different dishes and had an
Photo by Cathey Ryder from the DKG Events App.
excellent meal. After walking back to the hotel,
we relaxed with a glass of wine before going to bed. The atmosphere was friendly and a bit loud—which
is perhaps typical when women meet and chat!

Friday, July 28
The Third General Session took place in the room with the beautiful view. Professor Minna Huotilainen
talked about Well Learning—Changing Education with Perspectives from Well-being and Global Learning,
and Dr. Ulla Häggblom spoke about Sustainability Actions in Tampere University of Applied Sciences.
More workshops and a ticketed Impact Lunch followed. A few members went out for sushi. We had
some time for shopping, so we walked down to the city centre and visited some shops. When we came
back, it was time to dress up for the evening and to take group photos.
We had the Grand Dinner in Tampere Hall. There were both American and Finnish guests at my table.
Birgitta Johansson of Sweden State Organization was recognized as recipient of the European Achievement
Award 2021, and the recipient of the Award 2023 was announced: Eygló Björnsdóttir, Iceland. We were
entertained by the young accordion player again, and a group of ladies showed musical gymnastics.

Saturday July 29
The day started with the European Forum where the European Forum Committee presented, the
Strategic Action Plan was modified, and finances were reported. We were urged to be open and invite
guests to our DKG meetings. In a Celebration of Life, the names of members who had died since the last
European Conference were read.
After the morning coffee break, the Fourth General Session began, and a closing ceremony brought the
successful conference to a conclusion.

Gunilla Nordén, a member of Mu Chapter in Sweden State Organization, serves on the 2022–2024 International World Fellowship
Committee. 48allinug@gmail.com

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30 · Volume 90-4