Tallinn’s night mayor shares her insights on staying motivated and maintaining faith in a better tomorrow.
Age, Education, and Profession
I’m 33 years old. I studied Culture Management at the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy (Applied Higher Education) and Sociology at Tallinn University (MA). I am a social democrat and currently serve as the Night Mayor of Tallinn.
How’s life at the moment?
I feel that life is kind and giving, full of opportunities to grow and develop.
What qualities did you think were necessary to enter politics?
Since my entry into politics was quite accidental, I would say entering politics requires living your life in a way that puts you in the right place at the right time.
What qualities turned out to actually be necessary for politics?
Persistence, endurance, and cleverness.
Who and what have been your biggest inspirations?
My greatest motivation is the desire to make things better. I also follow various left-wing politicians worldwide. At the same time, it’s crucial to keep an eye on far-right radicals, who are often highly skilled and therefore successful. This was clearly demonstrated in the recent U.S. presidential elections.
How do you keep going without quitting?
Just don’t quit. Sometimes, you simply have to push through the difficult moments.
How do you find motivation?
I’ve never struggled to find motivation. I guess I just have enough cool ideas that I want to bring to life.
How do things actually work?
If only I knew!
Time and effort versus results?
Things can take a very long time—years, even. But if they’re worthwhile, you must not give up. Eventually, the right moment will come.
What frustrates you?
Lack of ambition, laziness, and stupidity.
Relationships with competitors behind the scenes?
Of course, there are competitive moments when people sabotage each other’s plans. There’s also malice at times. But there’s room for humor and even instances where competitors support one another.
Is it possible to work with people who hold completely different views? To what extent?
Absolutely—what other option is there? You just need to be skilled enough to reach agreements with everyone.
How do you maintain hope for a better future?
You simply have to give your all to make that better future a reality.
