Pekka Himanen

After defending his doctoral thesis at the age of 20, Pekka Himanen, the youngest philosopher in Finland, has written numerous internationally successful works, which have been published in 30 languages from America to Asia.

“When it comes to Himanen’s lectures, the answer to the question ‘Does it make my eyes shine?’ is definitely ‘Yes.’

Himanen has lectured at leading international and national forums, such as co-hosting the closing session of Davos with Desmond Tutu and delivering lectures to the leaders of the world’s 60 largest IT companies, from Bill Gates to the founders of Google. He has become not only one of the most well-known researchers of the information age internationally but also a star speaker in his own field.”

Pekka’s most sought-after lectures:

• Valuable Life – Life as a Work of Art
• New Leadership and Work Culture – Culture of Value Creation
• Success in the Transformation of the Information Age – Creative Passion and Enriching Interaction

Himanen’s work has been recognized with several international and Finnish awards. He has received, among others, the Global Leader for Tomorrow designation from the World Economic Forum, previously awarded to individuals such as Bono. He has been appointed as a Young Global Leader, a group that includes figures like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. Himanen has been awarded the State Award for Public Information for his lectures.

Together with Crown Prince Haakon of Norway and John Hope Bryant, a former advisor to US presidents, Himanen co-founded the international organization Global Dignity. Nobel laureates Desmond Tutu, President Martti Ahtisaari, Professor Amartya Sen, and business figure Richard Branson have been involved in its activities. The principles of Global Dignity were first signed by Muhammad Ali. Global Dignity promotes the dignity of all individuals, operating in over 80 countries and reaching over a million people annually.

Himanen’s lectures have been highly popular both internationally and in Finland. During his tenure as a professor at Aalto University, his lectures included immersive lecture series at the Studio Stage and Film Studio, as well as in the grand auditorium of the University of Helsinki, where at times up to 1200 participants registered. He has also engaged extensively with corporate leaders and work communities, including collaborations with Nokia and other leading Finnish companies.

Himanen’s lectures combine his extensive philosophical knowledge with expertise in the transformative nature of the information age, and have the ability to deeply resonate with each listener. His lectures are described as thought-provoking, energizing, and emotionally moving all at once.

Themes: Valuable Life – Life as a Work of Art | New Leadership and Work Culture – Culture of Value Creation | Success in the Transformation of the Information Age – Creative Passion and Enriching Interaction