Building community bridges in Aarhus

Starting over in a new country is tough - but Aarhus has a secret weapon. Pratik Hariharan

chats with Pippi Skygge to uncover how International Community Aarhus helps newcomers settle in.

Photographs: International Community Aarhus

Text: Pratik Hariharan

Moving to a new country is never easy, but for internationals in Aarhus, there’s a dedicated organisation that helps smooth the transition. International Community Aarhus offers free services and resources to help internationals integrate into Danish society, navigate bureaucratic processes, and establish meaningful social connections. I sat down with Pippi Skygge, Communications Specialist at International Community, to learn more about their mission, challenges, and the vibrant international scene in Aarhus.

What makes Aarhus special?

Aarhus may be Denmark’s second-largest city, but it maintains a unique balance between a small-town feel and big-city opportunities. “We call it the world’s smallest big city,” Pippi shares. “It has a welcoming, local vibe while offering plenty of cultural and professional opportunities.”

Unlike Copenhagen, Aarhus has fewer international residents, which sometimes makes integration more challenging. That’s why International Community Aarhus is working hard to ensure internationals feel at home and that local businesses recognise the value of a diverse workforce.

A hub for support and connection

“We aim to give internationals an overview of everything the city has to offer,” Pippi explains. “That includes practical guidance, social events, and networking opportunities.”

The organisation offers a Newcomer Guide, an online resource that covers essential topics such as tax registration, healthcare, schooling options, and cultural activities. They also manage an event portal featuring a mix of their own events and listings from cultural institutions, making it easy for newcomers to find activities that suit their interests.

Another standout initiative is Join a Club, a directory of over 130 clubs and associations that actively welcome international members. “From sports and book clubs to archery and creative workshops, this platform helps people find their community and make meaningful connections,” says Pippi.

Overcoming challenges

One of the biggest hurdles for International Community Aarhus is raising awareness. “Many companies and internationals don’t know about our services,” Pippi says. “We’re focusing on spreading the word so companies can better support their international employees.”

A key part of their mission is not just attracting internationals to Aarhus, but ensuring they stay and thrive. One major factor in retention is employment opportunities for spouses, which remains a challenge in Denmark. “We hope to bridge this gap by providing more career guidance and networking opportunities,” Pippi notes.

Events that bring people together

International Community Aarhus hosts a variety of events throughout the year, catering to different needs. Their flagship event, Expat Reception, takes place in August and welcomes hundreds of internationals with speeches from the mayor, networking opportunities, and entertainment.

They also organise Little Friends, a playgroup for parents on maternity leave, Finally Friday, a relaxed networking event, and Meet Your Club, where internationals can connect with local organisations. A new initiative, Career Journey, supports job-seeking internationals with success stories, mental health resources, and insights from professionals who have successfully navigated the Danish job market.

The cultural exchange

For Pippi, one of the most rewarding aspects of her job is engaging in cultural discussions between Danes and internationals. “Danes can sometimes seem reserved, but often it’s because we don’t want to intrude,” she explains. “Having conversations about cultural differences helps break down barriers and fosters deeper understanding.”

Why choose Aarhus?

When asked why internationals should choose Aarhus over Copenhagen, Pippi highlights three key reasons:

1. A strong University scene – Aarhus University offers world-class education and research opportunities.

2. Work-life balance – Denmark’s emphasis on flexibility and well-being makes Aarhus an attractive place to live.

3. A thriving cultural scene – From music festivals like Spot Festival to its vibrant creative community, Aarhus is full of opportunities for cultural exploration.

With its free services, rich community programs, and strong ties to local businesses, International Community Aarhus is an invaluable resource for internationals looking to integrate and thrive in Denmark’s second city. If you’re new to Aarhus or considering a move, this organisation should be your first stop.

For more information, visit internationalcommunity.dk