IHME Language Intern: Zara Asgher

Zara Asgher, a visual artist and visual arts teacher from Pakistan, has started as a Finnish-Language Intern at IHME Helsinki. She holds a Master’s degree from Aalto University’s Nordic Visual Studies and Art Education programme from 2022. Previous study-related internships have given Zara work experience in art-education programmes at the Finnish Museum of Photography and EMMA – Espoo Museum of Modern Art. Zara is currently taking a Finnish-language integration course and is completing her six-week language internship during the production phase of IHME Helsinki 2024, Cooking Sections’ Maaleipä Feast.

I am interested in art education and public art events and continue to exhibit my work in in Finland and Pakistan. In my work I explore themes of power and gender, and drawing in public spaces is an integral part of my practice. I am excited about my internship with IHME and the Maaleipä Feast. It will be an exciting and educational experience!

We at IHME Helsinki are delighted to be working with Zara. We are happy to receive applications for Finnish-language internships. Language internship offers trainee an opportunity to get to know the local working culture and to learn about the organisation’s work processes. Offering language internships is one way of implementing equality in our operations. At the same time, we gain new perspectives on our activities from the intern and support their employment in Finland. Increasing numbers of people in Helsinki speak a language other than Finnish as their mother tongue.

You can meet Zara on on Saturday 21 September 2024 at the Teurastamo Kellohalli in Helsinki, when the Maaleipä Challenge culminates in a celebratory event, Maaleipä Feast! In addition to the finalist breads that will be displayed and available to taste, expect a market featuring soil-nourishing products, a food security workshop, bread chants, music and other treats inspired by Maaleipä – bread for the soil. The event is open to all and free of charge.