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Sami food conference brought together hospitality entrepreneurs in Alta
On May 14, Máistu was held in Alta, Norway. Máistu means taste in Sámi and is the name of the food conference that brought together hospitality entrepreneurs from Sápmi. It was organized by the Norwegian Sami Parliament. Participants shared knowledge and experiences and were inspired by possible solutions for sourcing, producing, preparing and processing Arctic raw materials.
From Swedish Lapland Visitors Board Pia Huuva was there. Both as a substitute at our organization and as an entrepreneur at Huuva Hideaway.
“It was very interesting, and a fun approach that the lectures were a maximum of 25 minutes with taste breaks in between. The tasting breaks were linked to the eight seasons and Sami food based on these”, says Pia and continues:
“There were several interesting lecturers who talked about everything from brand building to drying reindeer meat. There seems to be a great interest in the Sami food and culture both in the tourism industry and of course, among the guests who come here”.
The smorgasbord of speakers included Björn Ylipää, a Tornedalian food artist who shared his experiences and insights on how to create meaningful meals that not only satisfy the taste buds, but also tell a story and connect with both nature and culture.
Pia, who was also at the EITC conference in Enare, summarizes Máistu:
“It is always good to have occasions where Sámi entrepreneurs in both the hospitality and food industries gather in the same place and share the same message. It gives us the feeling that we are good enough and that our knowledge is needed – both in the Sami community and outside. Many people are curious about the culture and want to know more. Opportunities like this are a kick in the butt to continue”.
Innovation Norway also attended the conference and shared figures and statistics. Here, the ambition is to make a Sami visitor industry strategy for 2030, something that Pia is positive about:
“It is interesting with tourism strategies and that they provide a comprehensive approach. As entrepreneurs, we need the right tools and conditions to be able to continue. Viable companies are needed for a vibrant tourism industry”.
