Globally, women have been instrumental in bringing about change, dismantling barriers, and shaping history. In business, politics, innovation, and activism, these extraordinary women have demonstrated unparalleled vision, leadership, and perseverance. One such example is Refka Elech, who resides in Vantaa, Finland.
Founder of Sandramor
Refka is the founder and CEO of Sandramor, a globally renowned business consulting firm. Sandramor provides expert assistance with Finnish immigration laws, regulations, and procedures for individuals and companies.
The organization assists individuals, families, businesses, and diplomats in almost all aspects of immigration, including Residence & Work Permits, Legal Support & Appeals, Registrations & Documentation, Relocation Services, Employment & Social Integration, Financial & Practical Assistance, and Business & Company Registration in Finland.
Political Career
Refka’s career as a politician has been outstanding. She currently holds several important positions, including Deputy Councillor, Vantaa City Council (Social Democratic Party, SDP) 2025-2029, Deputy Member, Multicultural Advisory Board, City of Vantaa, 2025-2029, Member, Multicultural Advisory Board (Vantaa & Kerava, VAKE wellbeing services counties), 2021-2024/2025-, and Deputy Member, Local Democracy and Inclusion Board, and vice representative of the Multicultural Advisory Board.
Her previous roles include Member in Organizations’ Advisory Board (Järjestöjen neuvottelukunta) 2023-2024, Deputy Member, Health and Well-being Advisory Board (HYTE-neuvottelukunta) 2024, Member, Statement Committee 2024 (Julkilausumavaliokunta), Uusimaa Demarinaiset and Representative of Demarinaiset (Social Democratic Women) in the Uusimaa District Council 2024, and SDP international board member and event coordinator. (Uusimaa means the southern region of Finland.)
International & Diplomatic Roles
Refka has served as Second Deputy to the President of the Tunisia branch of the International Commission on Human Rights but is no longer with them. She also held positions as the ambassador for Peacefully Connected (North Europe), the American board advisor in Finland, and the public relations manager and director of the EU office for a social Arab organization (main office in the USA). Refka represents her native country, Tunisia, in many events in Finland (African Day and African Week). She works hard to build a bridge between her diaspora (Tunisian, Maghrebians, Arabic-speaking, Francophone, as well as African) and Finland.
Academic Background
Refka has a solid academic background. She holds a bachelor’s degree in e-commerce and sales management in addition to several national and international certifications. The American Board has certified her as a leadership coach.
From Banker to Globally Renowned Politician and Entrepreneur
Refka’s transformation from banker to globally renowned politician and businesswoman is incredibly motivating. After overcoming several obstacles in her life, she made the decision to speak up for others, particularly those going through similar struggles. She entered politics because she believed it was the greatest way to serve and support others. Her first election was in 2021 for the city council. She got the first position: Deputy Member of the Municipal Advisory Council for Multiculturalism in the City of Vantaa, Finland and others that we mentioned before.
She continued to engage in business ventures in addition to her political involvement. Her firm, Sandramor, has quickly gained international renown.
Success comes to those who embrace challenges. Refka is a great example of this. She put forth a lot of effort and overcame many obstacles to achieve notoriety on a global level.