Miran Shukur, a graduate of Helsingin aikuisopiston peruskoulu, aims for success as a professional boxer

When Joni Sahlsten, Head of Security at Helsingin aikuisopisto, arrived at the building in the mornings, he noticed a man who was always the first to arrive before the school day started.

It was Miran Shukur, a student at Helsingin aikuisopiston peruskoulu. His goal was to complete his studies with good grades, and his sporting goals were in professional boxing.

‘At first, I noticed Miran because he seemed to take his studies very seriously. Miran was always on time and spent time in the building doing his homework,’ Joni says.

Kimmo Satola, a mathematics teacher at the school, also remembers Miran as a quick learner who was brave about speaking Finnish.

Joni and Miran started to chat more regularly about the importance of studying and about society.

‘You could really feel Miran’s motivation to become part of Finnish society. He also wanted to find a balance between his studies and his sporting goals. It turned out that Miran had been boxing for years and wanted a professional career,’ Joni says.

After two years of hard training, his dream of becoming a professional has now come true. Miran has stepped into the boxing ring under the name Miran Dukani, which refers to the city where he was born. His coach, Pekka Mäki, describes him as a very dedicated athlete at his home gym, Ringside Gym in Pitäjänmäki.

Joni remembered Amos Tuomainen, a promising young boxer who had once had a summer job at Helsingin aikuisopisto, and got the idea of suggesting a sparring event between the two boxers. Like Miran, Amos is a goal-oriented athlete. His dream is to win the Finnish championship and succeed at the European Youth Championships.

‘I contacted Amos and asked if Miran could spar with him and at the same time build a network with other boxers and coaches,’ Joni says.

The sparring event took place at the beginning of December 2025 at Ringside Gym, where Miran had the chance to test his skills against Amos.

Community and the opportunities it brings are important at Helsingin aikuisopisto and at Helsingin aikuisopiston peruskoulu. In this case, it led to a new network between Joni, Miran and Amos. Miran graduated from Helsingin aikuisopiston peruskoulu in October 2025, but the connections continue.

If you want to turn a hobby into a profession, setting goals and building networks are essential. We are happy that new connections have been made, and we wish Miran and Amos every success in their sporting careers!

Written by Kristiina Hentunen, Marketing Manager, Helsingin aikuisopisto