“I like knowing that my work contributes to something bigger.”
Who are you, and what is your role at The Eruopean Wergeland Centre?
My name is Tania, and I work as an Advisor in the Finance Department at the Wergeland Centre.
What made you want to work at the Wergeland Centre?
It was the opportunity to combine finance with an important social mission. I like knowing that my work contributes to something bigger. That motivates me. Behind the numbers are projects that make a real difference for people and society, and that gives my job an extra sense of purpose.
Which topics or issues within democracy, human rights, and education are you particularly passionate about?
I am especially interested in issues related to young people, as well as controversial questions connected to history and current events around the world.
Young people are both a vulnerable group and one with enormous potential for our society. It is essential that they are given the knowledge, tools, and confidence they need to participate actively in society.
I also find controversial topics especially fascinating. I’m curious about why events unfold the way they do, how decisions are made, and what factors influence them. Controversial issues challenge us to see matters from multiple perspectives and to evaluate information thoughtfully and critically.
When I learn about these topics, I find it incredibly valuable to hear stories from people who have experienced these events firsthand or who have grown up with them through family, friends, or others close to them. It adds so much meaning and encourages reflection. In particular, it teaches us how to approach people with different life experiences with openness and understanding.
Dialogue and the way we meet one another is an important topic in itself, but it becomes even more significant when discussing sensitive and controversial issues. These conversations often bring more and more people together around a shared topic, creating a sense of community that can genuinely make a difference.
What are people often surprised to learn about you?
People are often surprised to hear that I moved to Norway and found my place in Norwegian society quite quickly. I usually say that I have become a small piece of a much larger community. It has been an exciting journey, and perhaps one day it will become a book when I have a little more time. 😁
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to stay curious, get involved, and contribute wherever you can. When you do that, I believe you become part of society and discover that you have something meaningful to offer.
Many people are also surprised to learn that I commute about two hours to work. I like to say that when you truly enjoy what you do, it’s really just a slightly longer train ride—perfect for answering emails, reading a book, or joining a digital meeting on the way to work. So it works out just fine (as long as the trains are running! 😁).
In my free time, I also work as an aerobics instructor and lead my own exercise group in Hvittingfoss, where I live. We work out together, go for walks, and encourage one another to remember to take care of our health in the midst of busy everyday lives. It gives me a great deal of energy and is an important part of my daily life.
What’s one book everyone should read?
It’s difficult for me to choose just one book that everyone should read. I think the most important thing is to read books that make you reflect. That could be history, social issues, or biographies—anything that offers new perspectives.
I also think it’s important to emphasise the value of reading itself. For me personally, there’s something special about the physical experience of reading a book—the paper, the smell, and turning the pages. It’s a chance to slow down, and it feels like a small luxury.
What advice would you give your younger self?
If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be this: Most things are temporary, but it’s important to think about the kind of mark you want to leave on society.
Some periods of life are challenging, while others are easier, but both eventually pass. The greatest challenges often lead to the most growth, development, and reflection. We need to be willing to seize opportunities and trust that the experiences we gain will continue to shape us.
At the same time, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to walk the path alone. Having people around you who can support you and offer advice along the way makes a tremendous difference. Take good care of those people.
