Mattias Ingeson has taken office as Secretary General 

-"Sometimes you get the feeling that the good forces only investigate, research and talk while those who cause chaos in the world get things done," says Mattias Ingeson. Erikshjälpen wants to influence and spread knowledge about children's rights but at the same time be a "doer", working every day to make a real difference in people's lives.

A common thread in Mattias Ingeson's career is his commitment to society. His law studies were never motivated by the dream of big law firms, but by commitment and a desire to help others.

Mattias has a background in Erikshjälpen

When Erikshjälpen was looking for a new international director in 2007, Mattias didn't know much about the organization, other than that it was the only one of its kind in the region working with international child rights.
He came into contact with Erikshjälpen at just the right time. The organization wanted to scale up its Sida cooperation and was looking for someone with experience in organizational strategy.

Mattias was given the job of international director, but his position was changed at the very first management meeting. A new Secretary-General was to be appointed and with his skills and experience, it was natural for Mattias to become the boss's right-hand man.

Mattias' first time at Erikshjälpen lasted 12 years, then it was time for new challenges. As regional manager at Bilda, he was given the opportunity to be the sole leader and take the main responsibility. But after five years at Bilda, the offer came that felt so obvious to say yes to.

-I have never really let go of Erikshjälpen. It's been five years since the last time, which is long enough to come back with renewed vigor, but short enough for me to know what I'm coming back to.

Inherited her social commitment from her mother

Mattias Ingeson has always been interested in the identity of an organization. How Erikshjälpen has been formed and become what it is. The story of the founder Erik appeals to him, and he recognizes the drive and social commitment in his own life. Not least from his childhood with a mother who always stood by the children.

-"I definitely got a lot of my commitment from her," says Mattias. "In my new role, I can contribute with my social commitment and my drive in children's rights issues.

Living climate friendly

Mattias' commitment is not just about children's rights. Recycling is also important to him and there is more than one garment from Erikshjälpen Second Hand hanging in the closet in Russnäs.

"I want to live in a climate-friendly way, but it's also about the search, the treasure hunt. In general, men are not good at second-hand shopping and I'm happy to lead the way. I wear something second-hand every day, whether for work or leisure.

A varied life

Mattias Ingeson is originally from Linköping, but for the past 20 years the family has lived in his wife Karin's home area, Russnäs outside Eksjö. Life in the countryside and in a small context suits him, but equally important is to be where the action is.

-I like to have a fixed point in my life that is quiet and restful, but I still like to live in the heat of the moment.

Spring is almost here, with its light and hopefulness. But much about the future looks anything but bright. Mattias Ingeson is taking over as leader of Erikshjälpen at a difficult time, and he is aware of this.

-"I'm not intimidated, but instead motivated by finding ways forward," says Mattias. There is a kind of problem-solving spirit within Erikshjälpen that I have great faith in and look forward to being a part of.