This article is a translation of the original article published in Finnish 1.12.2025
Introduction
In remote areas, young people’s daily lives are shaped by long distances, varying levels of services, and whether meaningful activities are available locally. The InnoGS project brings together young people and underrepresented groups with public and private actors to develop inspiring and more accessible activity opportunities for different target groups.
This article examines what young people and young adults hope for—and what may prevent them from taking part in activities in their own community. The findings are based on an anonymous online survey conducted among young people through social media platforms.
The survey was conducted nationwide as an open online questionnaire in autumn 2025 and targeted 13–29-year-olds. A total of 89 responses were received.
The topic of this article is not entirely new: youth leisure and hobby participation in Finland has been studied for many years through various national surveys and research projects.
Young People’s Hobbies
The 2022 Leisure Time Study shows that hobbies remain common: about nine out of ten 7–29-year-olds have at least one hobby, and the amount of self-reported free time has remained stable despite the pandemic. COVID-19, however, reshaped the field: many young people both quit and started new hobbies, and at the same time physical activity and gaming increased.
The most common reasons for discontinuing guided hobbies include lack of time, declining motivation, and excessive competitiveness. About half of young people would like to be more active, but barriers include financial challenges, equipment costs, lack of hobby companions, and limited local opportunities.
“Meaningful leisure time includes much more than guided hobbies. Popular ways to spend free time include gaming, spending time with pets, and photography or videography.” – Direct quote from Varied Leisure Time: Children’s and Young People’s Leisure Study 2022
Young People’s Voices in Rural Areas
In the Youth Academy’s hearing of children and young people in rural regions, several clear wishes emerged: better transport connections, more reliable internet access, more hobby opportunities, cozy hangout spaces, and local events. At the same time, young people emphasized the importance of being genuinely heard—they want to participate in planning and shaping their own living environments.
The hearing also revealed gender differences in satisfaction and hobby participation. Girls were more often dissatisfied with rural living and viewed local hobby opportunities as limited compared to boys. The message from young people is clear: rural areas need more opportunities for participation, shared activities, and influence. When young people can make their voices heard, the community becomes more vibrant, equitable, and future-oriented.
Our own anonymous survey reflected similar themes. Young respondents wished for local gaming events (LANs, gaming clubs), more diverse physical activities (skateparks, frisbee golf, padel and basketball courts), Discord communities, and creative workshops. However, launching new forms of activities requires resources such as facilities, funding, and skilled instructors.
“More digital action!” – Quote from a young survey respondent
Remote areas are also home to young people with special needs, youth with migrant backgrounds, and those with learning difficulties or mental health challenges. Meaningful youth participation, careful planning, and attention to accessibility help ensure that no one is left out.
Activities, Community, and Accessibility
Most survey respondents wanted more low-threshold hobby opportunities that could be done with friends without long-term commitments or high costs. About half emphasized the need for activities in the evenings and on weekends, such as gaming sessions, music spaces, and small local events.
Young people also wished for more safe and welcoming places to spend time—such as youth centers or community cafés. Some valued digital and hybrid activities, while also highlighting the importance of maintaining opportunities for in-person gatherings and social interaction.
The most significant barriers to participation were poor transport connections, lack of information about local activities, and the feeling that young people’s ideas are not considered in decision-making.
“All kinds of things—since right now, as far as I know, there’s nothing happening here.” – Quote from a young survey respondent
Digital solutions open new possibilities for young people to participate and put their ideas into action. Young people’s digital skills, motivation, and interest in using digital platforms vary widely, making it essential to involve different types of users in planning. Inclusive design helps ensure that digital tools amplify young people’s voices and support participation. Platforms such as social media, streaming services, and Discord can lower the threshold for joining local in-person activities.
At the core of young people’s wishes are connection, participation, and equal opportunities. When young people are engaged in designing and implementing activities—taking into account local resources—even small villages can offer more diverse hobbies, community spaces, and meaningful experiences that support their well-being and strengthen their sense of belonging.
Authors:
Sami Partanen, RDI Specialist, Savonia University of Applied Sciences sami.partanen@savonia.fi
Janina Sjöstrand, Lecturer, Humak University of Applied Sciences janina.sjostrand@humak.fi
