Kristi Paatsi, Head of the Kalamaja Museum, Named Among the World’s Top 10 Museum Influencers

The web platform Blooloop, the world’s leading online information source for professionals in the visitor attractions industry, has once again announced its annual list of 50 most influential people in the museum sector, selected by an international jury of museologists. Among the top 10 most influential figures is Kristi Paatsi, head of the Kalamaja Museum, a branch of the Tallinn City Museum.

Founded in 2019 under the leadership of Kristi Paatsi and her colleagues, the small Kalamaja Museum has become a vibrant community hub that engages local residents and visitors through workshops, exhibitions, and events. The museum began as a community project, with initial discussions held with Kalamaja residents to shape its concept and permanent exhibition. Many locals have donated objects to the museum and shared their life stories for various exhibitions.

Last year, the Kalamaja Museum won the prestigious Silletto Prize at the European Museum of the Year Awards. As a result, visitor numbers to Europe’s best community museum grew by 40%, and its international recognition increased dramatically.

Each year, the Blooloop 50 highlights 50 key individuals whose innovation and creativity are central to shaping the future of museums. The Blooloop website and social media channels are used worldwide to follow news and the latest trends across the entire attractions industry – from theme parks to zoos and aquariums, water parks, museums, and leisure centers.

The full list of this year’s 50 Museum Influencers can be viewed at:
https://blooloop.com/the-blooloop-50-museum-influencer-list-2025/