Foto: Karolina Salmela

Meet a Hakkas Local!
Karolina Salmela is 23 years old and lives and works in Hakkas. She returned to her hometown after studying hairdressing and working in Kiruna and Gällivare. Today, she runs her own salon in the village.

I’m as much of a Hakkas local as you can be. I can’t imagine running a salon anywhere else, says Karolina Salmela.

Karolina grew up in Hakkas, about 50 kilometers outside of Gällivare’s town center. When it was time for upper secondary studies, she enrolled in a hairdressing program in Kiruna. After graduation, she moved to Gällivare, earned her journeyman's certificate, and worked in the city for a few months. But for Karolina, there was really only one plan – to move back to her home village.

Now, she has bought a house in Hakkas with her partner, just a few minutes from her salon.

Besides having my whole family here in the village, I love how simple life is. Everything is close by. Just a few minutes to work, the store, and the ski trail. I can walk or bike everywhere, says Karolina Salmela.

In her spare time, Karolina enjoys riding motocross and snowmobiles and appreciates the simplicity of having nature right outside her door. Everything she needs in daily life is here – the only thing she feels is missing is a gym.

The Hakkas area is also known for the locals' drive and dedication to their community.

In Hakkas, it’s really easy to get to know people and become part of the community. The people here are open and driven. If you want to start a business, it’s definitely possible here," concludes Karolina Salmela.