The Strength of a Community That Cares

The group was founded in 2021, on the initiative of the municipality and Leader Söderslätt. It is a non-profit association with the ambition of making the area an even better place to live. Their work reaches beyond Västra Ingelstad itself, also including the nearby villages of Bröddarp and Hötofta, which have long been connected to the area.

They build on what is already here. Local associations, cultural practitioners and small businesses are given space to be seen, while new meeting places are created — spaces where people can connect, get to know one another, and feel part of something shared.

It is a warm day in May when we ring the doorbell at Marianne Ullstad’s home. She is one of the driving forces behind the group. Together with her husband Stefan, she moved here in 2019, leaving the pace of Malmö behind for a quieter, more grounded village life.

Marianne has spent most of her professional life in education — as a music teacher, a leader within the cultural school, and later as a school principal. Local engagement has always been a natural part of who she is, and the move opened up new opportunities to get involved while getting to know her new home.

“The municipality wanted to bring local initiatives together in the eastern part of the area. I was asked through a scout leader, and I said yes straight away,” she explains.

In June 2021, a small group gathered in Marianne’s courtyard to create the foundation of what the group has become today.

“With my background in music and culture, the idea of a cultural gathering took shape — something that later became Byadagen. Time was short, but our mindset was simple: ‘We’ll figure it out.’ And we did.”

Already that September, the event drew nearly 500 visitors. Artists, exhibitors, local businesses and creators came together, and the experience gave the group both confidence and momentum to continue. New ideas followed — some more successful than others — but always driven by curiosity and commitment.

Today, the group consists of Marianne and Stefan Ullstad, Johan Holmberg, Ingrid Brodde and Sofie Dahlin Hartler. What drives them is clear.

Marianne hopes more people will choose to get involved, as the need for volunteers remains strong.

“If we want to keep our school, preschool, library, swimming hall and local shop, we need to support one another. Being part of the group also means becoming part of a strong network of engaged people. It is hard work, but it truly adds something special to life. And the appreciation we receive from those who visit our events means a great deal,” she says.

Several new events are planned throughout the year. Next up is the sing-along in the park on June 9 — an initiative shaped by Marianne’s passion for music and her involvement in the local choir, Ingel Singers.

“This year, we also have students from Noblaskolan joining us. I’ve been teaching them music during the spring, and together with Ingel Singers, they will perform several songs during the evening.”

A living village is built together — step by step, gathering by gathering.