C. W. Åkerlund – A Pioneer of Finnish-Language Press

A visionary and philanthropist at the heart of our foundation.
C. W. Åkerlund (1840–1911) was a merchant, local politician, and a trailblazer in Finnish-language journalism. He donated his entire fortune to educational and charitable causes – including the initial capital of the foundation that bears his name.

Aamulehti born from a celebration
Åkerlund was a founding member of the Tampere Finnish Club, which decided in 1881—on the occasion of J. V. Snellman’s 75th birthday—to establish a Finnish-language newspaper. This decision led to the founding of Aamulehti. Åkerlund served as chair of the paper’s board for 13 years and as a member for a total of 27 years, until his death.

A legacy that still supports the media field
Åkerlund bequeathed his entire estate to promote civic education and public good. He instructed that the shares he owned in Tampereen Kirjapaino be used to support employee healthcare, pensions, and studies—as well as the advancement of free communication.

His vision was to support those working in media and to foster professional development. That legacy continues through the C. V. Åkerlund Media Foundation. What began as a local initiative in Tampere has become a nationally active organization.

Read more about Åkerlund’s legacy here.