Suaad Onniselkä has officially been named the principal of Mainingin School located in Espoo, Finland, as reported by Helsingin Sanomat. This appointment is significant as Onniselkä is believed to be the only Muslim principal in Finland, which underscores the growing diversity within the Finnish educational system. She previously served as the vice principal at Puistopolku School in Helsinki and will assume her new role in March. Onniselkä's background and position highlight an important step towards inclusivity in Finnish schools.

Onniselkä expresses awareness of the challenges that come with her identity, stating that she has often been misidentified as a school assistant or a janitor rather than the principal. She emphasizes her experiences of encountering prejudice, particularly during her time at the University of Joensuu in the 1990s, reflecting societal stereotypes that still exist today. Onniselkä wears a headscarf in public, which contributes to misconceptions about her identity, leading some people to wrongly assume she is an immigrant until they learn she is Finnish. Her story brings attention to the importance of understanding and embracing diversity in leadership roles within education.

Her appointment could also represent a shift in perceptions regarding Muslim women in prominent positions, fostering discussions around inclusivity and representation in Finnish society. Onniselkä’s journey illustrates not only the personal choices she has made in her life, but also the broader societal need for acceptance of diverse identities in all facets of public life. Her presence as a principal might serve as an inspiration for young students, especially those from minority backgrounds, encouraging them to pursue leadership roles in the future.