About me

Welcome, I’m Marjaana

Welcome — I’m so glad you’re here. My journey began in Finland, a country known for its deep respect for education, community, and balance. Today, I make my home in the beautiful small town of Duvall, Washington, where life with my husband, our three children, and two golden retrievers keeps me grounded and joyful.

Community has always been at the heart of my life. Growing up, our home was a place where family, friends, and neighbors were always welcome. My father’s lifelong commitment to volunteering showed me early on how much stronger we become when we invest in one another. (By the way, the background photo taken in front of my chidlhood home!) That seed grew into a lifelong passion: helping people and communities discover their full potential.

My journey has taken me across Finland, Germany, and the United States, with each move teaching me resilience, adaptability, and the joy of building new connections. Along the way, I earned a Master’s in Social Sciences in Finland, where I was shaped by an academic tradition known worldwide for its rigor, innovation, and learner-centered approach. That foundation continues to guide my work today.

Faith is also central to who I am. Since coming to Christ at 17, I’ve been grateful to use the gift of leadership for His glory. I discovered Natural Church Development (NCD)—a research-based, biblically grounded approach to healthy communities—which deeply resonates with me. In addition to my NCD coach training, I was personally mentored by Christian A. Schwarz, the founder of NCD. That experience deepened my ability to lead with energy that is sustainable, life-giving, and contagious—something I now love helping others discover for themselves.

Today, I hold the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential with the International Coaching Federation (ICF), the gold standard in coaching worldwide. This equips me to serve with both excellence and integrity, combining proven coaching skills with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a deep respect for each person’s journey.

Whether you are an individual seeking clarity and encouragement, or a church longing to grow in health and vitality, I would be honored to walk alongside you. My hope is to be a trusted companion—helping you uncover what’s already within you and take meaningful steps toward lasting change.