Backpack Buddy Workshop

In this workshop, participants create their own backpack friend character. The idea is inspired by illustrator-author Maria Vilja's book series "The Invisible Backpack", where the main character Rosalia has a soft friend Piggy - a power figure who walks alongside her and expresses emotions.

During the workshop, each participant makes their own character as a backpack friend: a companion that reminds them of the existence of a secret backpack and serves as a personal power figure. The workshop also explores what the most important reminder from one's own backpack friend could be. The facilitators are Maria Vilja and Reetta Huhta, an emotional intelligence instructor for children and young people.

The event also features colouring pages related to "The Invisible Backpack" and a book exhibition of Maria Vilja's works. Admission is free.