Journal

Kalevala Muse

Meri Milash

In our Kalevala Muse article series, we interview interesting people and delve into the stories behind their favourite jewelry.

This time, our Kalevala Muse guest is the radiant Meri Milash — an Afro-Finnish entrepreneur, influencer, stylist, hair artist, and DJ. Meri is a passionate advocate for community and equality. She strives to uplift others and make everyone feel seen and heard.

How are you doing? What are you looking forward to this summer?

I'm doing well. The spring light works wonders — I've been feeling really inspired and hopeful. This summer, I’m looking forward to moments of joy and some well-deserved rest.

You're a true multitalent. How did you become a stylist, influencer, hair artist, and DJ?

I've jumped into new things boldly and with an open mind. I’ve taken chances by believing in myself and staying optimistic — thinking, “What if this works? What if it is possible?” And it always has been.

I was looking for new challenges after working in fashion retail, so I started hairdressing school. There wasn't much expertise in Afro hair in Finland, and I wanted to learn more myself. Around the same time, I kind of stumbled into styling when someone asked me to style artists — and that’s how it began. My role as an influencer developed naturally through social media. A friend convinced me to try DJing at a gig, and that kicked off my DJ journey. We started out performing together, and now I often play solo too.

You have a colourful and boldly unique style. Where do you find inspiration for dressing yourself and styling others?

I find inspiration everywhere. When it comes to my own style, I think — we only live once, so why not enjoy dressing up and playing with fashion.

You're known for wearing bold jewelry. What role does jewelry play in your life? How do you choose what to wear? What do you look for or appreciate in jewelry?

I wear jewelry every day. If I love a piece, I’ll wear it for every day and special occasions alike. I don’t believe jewelry should be saved only for certain moments — I want to enjoy the pieces I love all the time. Jewelry brings me joy and a sense of meaning.

I love bold pieces, and especially appreciate it when they carry a deeper story or message — like Kalevala Jewelry’s Female Lion. I always favour Finnish design.

What do Kalevala Jewelry pieces mean to you?

I value Kalevala’s storytelling, cultural heritage, and their commitment to Finnish craftsmanship. The brand stands for strong female role models and takes
a stand in society. Kalevala has built a recognizable identity and deep meaning into the symbols behind their jewelry. Their pieces are timeless and passed down through generations — they're part of many Finnish life stories. Kalevala jewelry and Finnish design create a sense of shared identity and community.

Kalevala jewelry and Finnish design create a sense of shared identity and community.

What are your favorite pieces from Kalevala Jewelry?

The new Männyt hoops, the classic Alluring earrings, and the powerful Female Lion pendant. The Female lion’s message is incredibly empowering: This is a piece of jewelry for all female lions. For the past and future ones. For the brave and untamed ones. For those who do good deeds in their own lives and in the world. We may be the most independent women in the world, but the world is not ready yet. Therefore, we continue our work for equality of each and every one of us. Loving, acting together, supporting and respecting each other.

If you were to give a Kalevala piece as a gift, what would you choose, for whom, and why?

For a young person, I would give Kalevala Jewelry’s Female Lion or Männyt jewelry (Finnish for "pines"). The Männyt design by young designer Ildar Wafin is a modern interpretation of the resilient, mystical pine trees of the Finnish archipelago. To me, it's a meaningful piece in many ways. It reflects the deep love Finns have for nature. I also see it as a reminder that each of us is unique and valuable — and together, we are stronger. Like trees whose branches grow together, intertwined and supporting one another.