Aira Samulin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Aira Samulin
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Samulin at the Turku book fair in 2016
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Aira Laila Suvio
27 February 1927 Ignoila, Salmi, Finland (present-day Russia)
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| Died | 23 October 2023 (aged 96) Helsinki, Finland
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| Nationality | Finnish |
| Other names | Aira Laila Suvio-Samulin |
| Occupation | Dance teacher, businesswoman |
| Spouse(s) | Helge Samulin (sep. 1963) |
| Children | 1 daughter, 1 son |
| Awards | Order of the Lion of Finland |
Aira Laila Suvio-Samulin (born February 27, 1927 – died October 23, 2023) was a famous Finnish dance teacher and businesswoman. She was known for her energy and her long career in dance and fashion.
Aira Samulin's Life and Career
Aira Samulin was born on February 27, 1927, in a village called Ignoila, which was then part of Finland. Today, this area is in Russia.
Her father was a soldier who sadly died in a war in 1941. Aira's uncle, Sten Suvio, was a well-known Olympic boxer.
In 1954, Aira was chosen as a "mannequin queen." This meant she was recognized for her style and grace in the fashion world.
Aira Samulin was the director of her own dance school. She also worked as a secretary for a film company. In the 1960s, Aira started a special fashion dance school. It was called Rytmikkäät mannekiinit, which means "rhythmical mannequins."
Aira was also involved in local government. She was a member of the city council in Espoo from 1989 to 1996. Later, she joined the city council in Helsinki from 1997. She helped make important decisions for the city.
Aira Samulin even appeared in movies! In 2001, a film about her life, called Tango Kabaree, was made. She played herself in the movie. She also appeared in another film, Uuno Turhapuro – This Is My Life, and a TV show called Fakta homma.
Aira had a special house called "Hyrsylän mutka" in Lohja, Finland. It was built in a traditional Karelian style. The house became a local attraction because of its unique design and history.
Family and Later Years
Aira Samulin had a daughter, Pirjo (1947–2018), and a son, Jari (born 1955). They were from her marriage to Helge Samulin, which ended in 1963. Aira passed away in Helsinki on October 23, 2023, at the age of 96.
Awards and Recognition
Aira Samulin received many awards for her work and contributions.
- She was given the Order of the Lion of Finland knight award. This is a very respected honor in Finland.
- She received the Mental Health Award for her artwork Auringonpimennys ("solar eclipse"). This art piece was about important topics like family challenges and mental well-being.
- She also received an Entertainment work award.
- Aira was very active in helping young people.
In 2011, she received the first-ever life's work award from the Regional Organisation of Enterprises in Helsinki.
In 2017, the Finnish central chamber of commerce honored Aira for her amazing work in the fashion industry throughout her life.
In 2019, an organization called Reserviratsastajat ry gave Aira a golden rider's medal. This was for her efforts in promoting horse riding traditions and supporting national defense.
