I am Mariska, a woman from Helsinki who entertains herself with music and writing. I write songs and sing, do aerobics and stretching, and I play with my little one. I found my thing when I was around twenty and I decided to dive into the music industry. I have always been musical, but I began my artistic career by rapping, and soon I was invited to other projects as a lyricist.

During my teens I decided to become a musician and announced that I was going into that industry even though back then I didn’t have any idea about the role I would take on or how it would happen. I have a punk background. It has been my green light throughout life; the idea that I have the right and permission to do whatever I want, even though I don’t have a degree or any other official, stamped papers that would let me do things.

Difficulties, obstacles, demons – I’ve faced them all along the way. Most of them relate to my self-esteem and boundaries but I’ve always gotten over them. Life is like a wave, with ups and downs. Luckily my family and friends have supported me at the most difficult times, and I also know how to pray. Most often the difficulties have turned into strengths. Turn shit into roses, as they say.

Everyone has the right to be themselves. Everyone has their own voice and the permission to use it, you have to follow it, and give it a chance. Life is made for living.

– Mariska