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Finnish nurses worked abroad already in the 19th century, before nurse education had started in Finland. Reasons for going abroad were the desire to help people, to acquire education, knowledge and experience, to look for a job or to seek adventures or love. In the course of time the reasons have remained nearly the same. Many of the first matrons got their education abroad. On the other hand, Finnish nurses have voluntarily joined the Red Cross ambulances abroad from the last century until today. Study trips were popular already in the beginning of this century, and nowadays a time abroad or at least congress visits are a part of everyday life. Many Finnish nurses have held prominent positions. The most remarkable among them is Sophie Mannerheim, who was President of the International Council of Nurses in 1922-1925. Missionary work in Africa and other developing countries has attracted believers, while others are employed by the World Health Organization.