Keynotes and Presentations from the World Sauna Forum
World Sauna Forum
Jari Laukkanen is a cardiologist and Professor of Medicine at the University of Eastern Finland, and one of the world’s leading experts in the areas of sauna bathing research and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Karita Tykkä is a pioneer in holistic wellbeing, a Pilates and meditation instructor, mental coach, entrepreneur, author and speaker whose mission is to help and inspire people to feel well and thrive.
Justyna Turek is a Stockholm-based facilitator, service designer, and founder of Saunthropology, a global sauna research and experience-design project exploring how people connect through heat, water, and ritual.
Beyond acting, Jasper is a passionate entrepreneur and sauna advocate. He is the co-founder of the iconic Helsinki sauna and restaurant Löyly, as well as AITO Sauna, and a strong voice for sharing Finnish sauna culture with the world.
As Harvia’s Chief Technology Officer, Timo Harvia leads innovation and product development with a deep understanding of sauna technology.
Hans Hägglund, MD, PhD, is a Swedish medical doctor and professor primarily known for his extensive background in clinical research, particularly in hematology, and his strong advocacy for prevention of diseases and the health benefits of sauna bathing and cold exposure.
Mikkel Aaland is an award-winning photographer, author of Sweat and host of the Perfect Sweat documentary series. He is the co-founder of Sauna Aid, a multicountry initiative, dedicated to providing movable sauna facilities and supportive services to people facing natural and man-made disasters.
Samuel Aarnio is a Finnish film producer at Sauna Channel, with deep roots in — and a deep love for — the sauna culture he now documents on screen.
Dr. Lassi Liikkanen (he/him) is a Finnish sauna designer, author, and founder whose work advances authentic, healthy, and safe Finnish sauna experiences worldwide.
Yasutaka Kato, MD, PhD, is a Japanese medical doctor and researcher primarily known for his work in cancer genomics and early cancer detection, as well as his scientific approach to sauna and health.
Ling Choi is a Helsinki-based Cultural Storyteller and Experience Designer, creating sensory- and emotion-led experiences that deepen the connection between people, brands, and each other.
Matias Laaksonen brings extensive global experience in the use of ThermoWood® in architecture and design, supporting projects that combine sustainability, performance, and aesthetics.
Tony Vosu and Helena Victoria Kirss were born and raised in Estonia, where sauna is part of everyday life. Now based in Australia, they are the heart of Harmone, a family-owned importing company helping to shape one of the world’s most exciting emerging sauna landscapes.
Freddie Mehigan leads the Community Sauna Network (CSN), a UK-wide initiative supporting Not For Profit grassroots sauna projects. His work focuses on developing sustainable, community-led wellbeing spaces through practical guidance, coaching, and knowledge-sharing.
Jake Newport is the founder and CEO of Finnmark Sauna, the UK’s leading authentic sauna specialist.
Courtney Wittich is the founder and writer of S.P.A. (Salus Per Aquam) – a bathing-focused, water and wellness newsletter covering the post-iPhone leisure world. Niamh is part of a team helping shape community-centred sauna culture in Canada through a simple belief: sauna is for everyone
Polly Joy Wilson is the Social Prescribing and Community Manager at Community Sauna Baths CIC, where she leads NHS-linked outreach and inclusion programmes across London.
Azar Eskandarpour is a long time international bather with expertise in sweat cultures from over 30 countries. From the Congo to Uzbekistan, Japan to India and everywhere in between, Azar has studied and experienced ancient bathing rituals and cultures of the world.
Entrepreneur and Sales Director of Pohjolan Pirtti & Kievari / SaunaTour from Ruka-Kuusamo
Managing Director of Aufguss Roots / Germany’s Sauna Culture and the Art of Aufguss Rituals
CMO of HUUM / Estonia – Sauna Culture & Business
Secretary General of the Norwegian Sauna Association / Norway’s Sauna Renaissance – Stig Arild Pettersen of the Rise of Norwegian Sauna Culture
Author & Journalist / Case UK – The Sauna Boom in the UK and where Finnish traditions fit in
Professional ”Saunners” and Founder of TTNE / Case Japan – TTNE and the Global Sauna Movement
Timo Harvia – The Truth Behind Sauna Energy Consumption: Myths, Facts, and Smart Solutions
Case: North America – Leading the Authentic Finnish Sauna Movenemnt Across North America
30 Years in Textiles, Now Championing Sustainable Sauna Lifestyles Globally
Keeping the Tradition Alive: The Living Finnish Sauna Culture
Curator of the Museum of Central Finland / Case Finland: – Keeping the Tradition Alive: The Living Finnish Sauna Culture
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