Georgianna 'Johanna' McCollom-Oja has been awarded the title of Grandma of the Year 2026 by the elderly service association Seurana. Originally from Virginia, she moved to Finland in 1965 at the age of 24 for love, and has shared her experiences of settling in a new country. McCollom-Oja remembers her initial arrival in Finland, describing the run-down state of the house she moved into and the simplicity of Tampere's airport at the time.

Her journey reflects the challenges of adapting to a new culture, including mastering the Finnish language, which was taught in a formal style that proved difficult for her. Despite these challenges, her determination and spirit have made her a beloved figure within her community. Her daughter emphasizes her mother's embodiment of Finnish 'sisu', a concept that reflects resilience and perseverance in overcoming obstacles.

As Finland has changed considerably over the last 60 years, McCollom-Oja notes that her perspective on life has also evolved alongside the societal transformations she has witnessed. Her story is not just one of personal achievement, but also a testament to the enduring strength of women and their significant contributions to their communities in the face of change.