Kotona won a prestigious media award: “A wonderful example of forward-thinking media development”

Kotona has been recognized by the Finnish Magazine Media Association and named Digital of the Year at the annual Edit Awards on May 15, 2025. We also received an honorable mention in the Revamp of the Year category for our brand refresh and international expansion.

The Digital of the Year category sought an outstanding digital creation, such as an app, an insightful use of AI, a web-based content concept, or a service that benefits readers.

Kotona took home the trophy with tools that empower Finnish-language media to go global. Developed in collaboration with the University of Helsinki’s Department of Languages, these tools enabled the Finnish-language Kotona [in Finnish] to launch an English-language counterpart in January 2025, giving international audiences a glimpse into Finnish homes and lifestyle.

The jury's remarks on Kotona’s win were as follows:

“The ambitious project represents a completely new venture in the industry and demonstrates strong belief in Finnish magazine journalism. In addition to efficiency, the development process has excellently taken journalistic quality into account, and the tools have been designed to fit seamlessly into the staff’s daily work. If successful, this implementation can be scaled to other media outlets and other language spheres as well. A wonderful example of forward-thinking media development.”

The Kotona team is beyond delighted by the recognition. Antti Karvanen, Head of Digital at the A-Lehdet media group, describes the international publishing process as a multidisciplinary project:

“This project brings together our team’s strong technological know-how, the University of Helsinki’s deep understanding of languages and cultures, and Kotona’s solid journalistic expertise. Additionally, this inspiring initiative is driven by A-lehdet’s willingness to experiment and courage to reach new audiences.”

“It’s wonderful that we’ve been able to reimagine our audience and share Finnish lifestyle and journalism with the world,” continues media group director and editor-in-chief Maija Koski.

From left to right, the following team members accepted the award: Heidi Liesivesi, Tiia Mannermaa, Mari Pakkala-Wecström, Maija Koski, Suvi Rantala, Emmi Nissi, Johanna Sjöholm, Antti Karvanen, Marjut Alho, Helka Sariola, Henri Tukiainen and Taro Morimoto. Photo: Finnish Magazine Media Association.