Espoo has awarded the TASSU prize for equality and non-discrimination to EBK Football School and the Lobby Services of Lagstads skola school offering practical training for special needs students

This year, the Equality Committee focused on acts that promote the employment of minority groups in Espoo when selecting the recipients of the TASSU prize. They were also looking for action that prevents social exclusion already before people enter the working life, for example, by means of youth work.

The recreational activities of EBK (Esbo Bollklubb ry) that won the other category, or more specifically, the EBK Football School, promotes the employment of minority groups and prevents the social exclusion of children and young people.

“The EBK football activities offer an open and equal hobby environment that prevents the exclusion of children and young people, especially those who live in multicultural and socio-economically disadvantaged areas. The activities strengthen group and everyday skills, increase participation and utilise multicultural staff who support families and serve as role models. The football school is extensive, accessible and clearly impactful, and, this is why it is the winner of the category,” states Equality Committee in their justification.

According to the Equality Committee, the Lobby Services of Lagstads skola school, which won in the city category, offer students in vocational special needs education and training meaningful traineeship positions that strengthen the students’ confidence and encourage them to look for work in the labour market.

“The impacts on promoting equality, non-discrimination, and employment are apparent, and the students’ own experiences show the tangible benefits of the activities. The model is simple to utilise elsewhere, and the application stands out as the strongest in the internal category”.

Additionally, the Roma boys’ club receives an honourable mention in the other category.

“The club offers Roma boys a safe and culturally sensitive club environment at a youth centre where they receive support, meet role models, and learn everyday skills. The activities aim to strengthen the inclusion of young people, prevent social exclusion, and support opportunities for engaging in society. Although the club is limited to a small target group, its focused and effective implementation is seen as a strength,” explains the Equality Committee.

The Espoo Equality Committee created the TASSU prize for equality and non-discrimination, and its purpose is to raise awareness of actions that promote equality and non-discrimination in the City of Espoo and to encourage city residents and communities to come up with new ideas and take action. The TASSU prize is awarded annually and consists of two categories. In addition to nominating those employed by the city, the residents of Espoo who use the city’s services could nominate persons, work pairs or groups who promote equality and non-discrimination in the outsourced services of the City of Espoo or other third-sector actors in Espoo, such as sports clubs and other organisations.

The application period for TASSU was from 1 October to 2 November 2025, and it received three applications for the city category and three applications for the other category. All applicants contribute to making Espoo an even better place to live, and the Committee wishes to thank everyone who took part in the competition.

At its meeting on 2 December 2025, the Espoo Equality Committee decided on the winners and the recipient of the certificate of honour.