FINNISH WOMEN

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVIII, Issue 21553, 16 January 1940, Page 8

FINNISH WOMEN

FILLING MEN’S SHOES For the past several years Finland’s women have been adapting themselves to the work of men, states the “Christian Science Monitor.” Because of its strategic position, Finland needs the fully-developed talents of all its citizens. Thus its women are considered highly accomplished in fitting into the nation’s economic machinery. For example, Fanni Luukkonen is head of the Lotta-Svard, equivalent to the Red Cross. The majorty of tram conductors in the capital, Helsingfors, are women, and it is there, too, that foreigners are surprised to find themselves being served by women barbers. In the affairs of government. Finnish women have shown their ability as evidenced by Miss Miina Sillanpaa, the only woman of Finland to be appointed to a ministerial post. The wife of Finland’s President, Kallio, is patriotic and industrous Among her main interests are spinning, a loom being stationed in her own home. Mrs Anni Vaipio is chairman of the Federation of Business and Professional Women of Finland, a member of the editorial board of a large daily newspaper, and editor of three monthly magazines.