Welcome our new member Health Coach Minna Bussey

Health Coach by Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Specializing in helping women over 40 achieve sustainable weight loss and renewed energy, I guide my clients with a focus on satiety and blood sugar management. With a passion for wellness and a solution based approach, I’ve coached numerous women in a short period, empowering them to transform how they look and feel in their bodies.

I believe in practicing what I preach and live an active lifestyle (I’m all about walking—just check out my Instagram!). I bring a fun, laid-back attitude to my coaching, though I’m deeply serious about achieving lasting wellness for my clients. Whether it’s through personalized coaching sessions or sharing my journey, I’m committed to helping women feel their best, inside and out.

Contact:

minna@minnabussey.com

Instagram

FBC member in the spotlight - Meet Health Coach Minna Bussey

1. What inspired you to become a health coach?

It was during the first covid lockdown, I was sick and tired of my own, unhealthy relationship with food, and myself, and decided to take full responsibility of the situation and finally change things for good. I faced the fact that extreme diets simply didn't work in the long run and did not bring anything positive to my life. Instead I finally committed to playing the long game and started learning about holistic, healthy lifestyle and changing my habits for reasons bigger than "just" my mirror image and the number on the scales. During this I discovered Institute for Integrative Nutrition and decided to enroll on their Health Coach course. What actually sparked it all was stumbling upon Melissa Wood Tepperberg's Instagram account! For those who don't know: she is the ultimate Instagram wellness queen. 

2.What brought you to Dubai?

We first moved to Dubai from London in 2014 for my husband's work. His whole team moved over so the transition was easy as we arrived with an immediate group of friends however it was a slow process for me to learn to love Dubai. I was adamant we would return to London, which we did in 2018 only to move back to Dubai again in 2022! We ended up spending the longest one of covid lockdowns here and it sparked the idea to move back to the sunshine. I feel like Dubai is vastly different now to 2014: it's a much busier and buzzier city with more to offer. Whereas back then I missed London terribly and felt slightly isolated here I now wouldn't want to live anywhere else and can really appreciate everything it has to offer. 

3.What areas do you specialize in, and how do you help your clients achieve their personal and health goals?

I specialise in coaching women, in particular over 40-years old. Most of my clients are professional women in corporate jobs and often they are also mums. This can mean that for years they've put themselves and their wellbeing to the bottom of the priority order ending them up in a situation where they're unhappy in their bodies and don't feel like themselves anymore. 

My coaching style is very much creating solutions for problems. I get to know my clients and what their typical days look like and based on that we make a practical action plan that will help them get to their wellness goals, which most often is or includes weight-loss. 

In terms of methods I focus on insulin rather than calories ie. quality rather than quantity, which becomes all the more important for women in perimenopause and menopause. 

4.We have heard that you love walking. What’s the most memorable walk you’ve ever done?

The most beautiful walk has got to be "Le Sentiel du Littoral" in Cap d'Antibes in South of France. 

Hiking in the Swiss Alps was also an incredible experience. 

Let's not leave Dubai out though... My "Burj to Burj" walks have been memorable too, whether because of a stunning sunset or because of doing it in June mid morning temperatures. 

5. What’s the number one piece of advice you’d give our readers to achieve a healthy lifestyle?

This is actually quite easy: eliminate or drastically reduce your consumption of ultra-processed foods. They have been designed to make you over eat and are laden with harmful chemicals that can mess up with your hormones. Eat WHOLE food in its original format that nature provides us. The more it has been processed the more trouble your body will have metabolising it. Regularly consuming foods like cereals, breads, crackers, pastas, crisps, sweets, packaced snacks, and juices can lead you living in constant blood sugar roller coaster causing increased hunger, cravings and energy drops amongst other things. 

 

 

Welcome our new member Olvi Group

Olvi is an international group of beverage companies. Olvi Group consists of the parent company Olvi Plc in Finland, and its subsidiary operations in six countries. Olvi Group exports to over 70 countries worldwide. Olvi has been producing beverages for consumers since 1878 in Iisalmi, Finland.

In 2023, sales volume for Olvi Group was a historic 975.8 million litres and net sales were EUR 630.6 million. The Finnish operations of the group include Olvi Plc and The Helsinki Distilling Company. The Helsinki Distilling Company is a distillery in Helsinki established in 2014. The Helsinki Distilling Company prides itself on producing high-quality spirits from the best local ingredients with love, including award winning premium gin, vodka, Finnish “lonkero” and of course rye malt whiskey.Olvi Group offers a diverse and wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for consumers’ various moments of enjoyment, including beer, cider, hard seltzers, long drinks, cocktails, water, soft drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, whiskeys, gins, liqueurs, and other mild and strong spirits.

Contact:

Karolina Tuurna

Export Brand Manager

 +358 50 466 1168

karolina.tuurna@olvi.fi

www.olvi.fi

www.hdco.fi

 

Olvi non alcoholic beverages (Arctic Silence, Muteman, Motor Oil) are distributed by Nordic General Trading.

https://www.nordicgt.ae/

The Helsinki Distilling Company products are available for purchase at Centaurus International

https://centaurusint.net/

 

 

FBC Member in the spotlight - Meet Heli Katajamäki from Avec Heli Events

1. Tell us about your company Avec Heli Events?

I started my business in 2016 after working for many years in international sports events. I specialize in expert event management for corporate clients, creating bespoke luxury events in Finland, Europe, and the UAE.

Dubai holds a special place in my heart, and that is why I want to support Finnish companies looking to organize events there to showcase their products or services, make new business connections, or strengthen relationships with existing customers.

2.What is your favourite event you have organized, and what made it stand out for you personally?

It's hard to pick just one, but if I had to, I would choose Finland's National Day during EXPO 2020 in Dubai. It was a perfect blend of international atmosphere, business promotion, protocol, entertainment, amazing experiences, and spectacular venues. The Al Wasl Dome is the most impressive venue I have ever experienced.

3.What would be your Top 5 tips for arranging a successful event?

 A well-planned and executed event can be a powerful tool for marketing and sales. Here are my top five tips:

 

  1. Define clear goals and objectives – Every aspect of the event should be designed with the overall purpose in mind. Know what you want to achieve and keep the goals in mind in every step of the planning.

  2. Design engaging content and messaging – Use a variety of formats to share information. Avoid relying solely on traditional keynote presentations; mix it up with interactive sessions, panels, or multimedia elements.

  3. Facilitate networking opportunities – One of the main reasons people attend live events is to make connections. It’s also an ideal opportunity for sales teams to strengthen relationships with clients and prospects.

  4. Create memorable experiences – People often remember the unique, fun, or unexpected elements of an event more than the information shared. Incorporate side programs like dinners, entertainment, or special activities to leave a lasting impression.

  5. Focus on post-event follow-up – Leverage the event’s success by sharing content afterward, promoting your brand, and nurturing the new connections you’ve made. This helps maximize the long-term value of the event.

 4.How do you recharge your batteries when you are not working?

I love traveling and wish I could do it more! In my daily life, I enjoy hosting small gatherings with friends, and my favorite is apéro evenings—a French-style after-work get-together with champagne and small bites.

 

 

Meet the mentors and mentees of 2024/2025

The Nordic Business Councils are pleased to launch the 5th round of the Mentorship Program.

Over the past couple of months, we’ve received many fantastic applications, resulting in a dynamic group of 20 mentors and 30 mentees.

The six-month journey, will empower the mentees to set and achieve their personal and professional goals through insightful guidance and support from their mentors.

On the 1st October we will hold the mentorship launch event, where mentees will have a unique opportunity to engage in a lively speed-networking session. This is their chance to connect with potential mentors and request a specific match that resonates with their aspirations.

Together, we’ll embark on this journey of growth and collaboration, ending in April 2025.

Get ready to unlock new possibilities and forge meaningful connections!

We are here delighted to present the mentors and mentees of 2024/2025’s Mentorship Program

Welcome our new member ACME Group

ACME Group has firmly established itself in the Middle East, as a reliable Tax and Financial Solutions Company. We consistently provide high-quality solutions, for all businesses needs across the region. Our strength lies in our expert team members and their capabilities, driving us to a rapid expansion. Our strategic approach of providing tailored solutions for each client keeps us competitive in today's challenging business environment. We prioritize quality and expertise, fostering long-term relationships. Our exceptional team consistently delivers value efficiently, making us the preferred service provider.  Our commitment-focused approach reflects our dedication to ensuring the financial success of our clients. We ensure support and excellence, guiding clients toward their financial goals with assurance and reliability
Since inception, ACME's team has assisted hundreds of taxpayers stay compliant with the tax laws and regulations, supported them in the communication with Federal Tax Authority. With compliance in mind and passion for what we do, our team always goes the extra trying to help companies every step of their journey. From the moment our clients are registering for VAT, Excise or Corporate Tax, our Advisory, Compliance and Tax Litigation teams are ready to help them with any service related to taxation, including following Services:

    • VAT and Excise Registration, Advisory and Filing

    • Corporate Tax – Assessment, Filing & Implementation

    • Pre-Audit Reports and Advisory for VAT and Excise

    • Designated Zone Registration / De-Registration / Renewal

    • Voluntary Disclosure and Refund Processing

    • Tax Litigation and Dispute Resolution

  • Contact Person:

Mr. Mudasir Sofi
mudasir@acme-group.me

+971 52 768 6142

Social Media Channels:

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Youtube

Website

Become a table sponsor at the 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner

Secure your spot and showcase your brand at the unforgettable celebration when Finnish Business Council marks it’s 20th Anniversary on November 22nd! The event will welcome approximately 150 guests in a gala dinner setting with live entertainment, delicious food and delightful surprises at Gardens at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah. We also warmly welcome raffle sponsors to take part in the event. Please contact erika@fbcuae.fi

FBC member in the spotlight - Meet our new board member Ulla-Maija Simola, NOKIA, Head of Commercial Management Middle East & Africa

1. Having worked at Nokia for over 25 years, how have you seen the company and the tech industry evolve during that time?

I think the biggest change is the shift from voice via SMS to data. Nowadays, data is the most important thing for our customers, and 50-70% of operator revenues come from data.

The data explosion is still continuing, and in African countries, it is even amplified by the increase in users, driven by population growth and the affordability of the service. Affordability is another significant change over the last 20 years. If we consider how many people could afford to use mobile services 20 years ago, it was just a fraction of those who can use them now. This is crucial, as many countries—including less developed ones—are striving to digitalize governmental and community services. However, we still have some way to go to bridge the digital divide globally.

Another related change is the emergence of social media. Its influence is unimaginable.

2. What advice would you give to young professionals looking to build a long and successful career in a global company like Nokia?

A big company has lots of departments and policies, but also offers lots of opportunities to expand your experience. So don’t be scared of what might appear complex. You will quickly understand the structures and your interfaces. After settling in, actively explore the opportunities to continuously learn more. Even after 25 years in Nokia, due to the ever developing technology, I take a couple of trainings every week.

3. In what ways has your experience at Nokia shaped your leadership style?

I think I was not very patient and run to conclusions quickly before. In Nokia I have learned to listen, reflect and ask for multiple opinions.

I have never been a promoter of micro management and I like Nokia way of empowering the people who have the best knowledge of the topic to decide.

4. What lessons from your long tenure at Nokia do you believe can benefit the Finnish Business Council?

I can bring in news and trends from the Communication Industry. Communication technology is behind all those data services, which are a must for all of us nowadays.

I have also been working with people from many different cultures. I have lived in 6 countries in 4 continents and as per Nokia style, had colleagues from tens of countries.

5. We understand that you have a passion for running, how do you balance your demanding career with your hobby?

This is easy! I do my running in the morning, as I can manage my morning schedules (go running 1,5 hrs before you need to leave), but not the evening schedules. You never know which customer call or request pops up during the day.