Jensína Edda Hermannsdóttir is Reykjavík’s Resident of the Year 2026

Jensína Edda Hermannsdóttir, Reykjavík’s Resident of the Year 2026, arrived early this morning at Veiðihúsið by the Elliðaár rivers, the venue for today's official season opening. Mayor Hildur Björnsdóttir was on hand to announce the selection and congratulate Jensa. She called it a privilege to honor such a passionate and pioneering figure in education who has touched the lives of countless families across the city over the past two decades. 

After refreshments and conversation, Jensa and Hildur headed to Breiðan with a fishing guide. There, Jensa cast a line for salmon as a guest of the mayor and the Reykjavík Angling Association, which has managed the rivers for 87 years.

The City sought nominations for individuals whose conduct and actions set an example for others and make them deserving of the title of Reykjavík’s Resident of the Year. 

After reviewing the nominations, the committee decided to award the title to Jensína Edda. Nominators noted that Jensa, as she is universally known, is recognized for her contributions to early childhood education and her use of positive psychology in school operations. They described her as solution-oriented and deeply committed to the well-being of every child in her preschool. 

Working with children since the last century

Jensa has dedicated her life to supporting children and their families. At Laufásborg, every staff member works directly with the children, and there is no dedicated office. "We are where the children are," says Jensa, who has personally participated in the daily program with the children since the last century. 

Jensa describes Laufásborg as home to a cohesive and driven team that has worked together for many years; four teachers alone share a combined 100 years of experience, and many have been there for 20 years. 

"This work is magical, and it keeps us on our toes. "What you need is inner strength, confidence in what you do, and a genuine belief that love is the best approach. "Here at Laufásborg, we lift each other up every single day, and we believe that joy is a form of professionalism. "Laufásborg operates under the Hjalli Model, and in January of this year the teachers took over its management, forming a company called Hamingjuhöllin ehf. — a nod to the fact that Laufásborg is commonly known in everyday speech as Hamingjuhöllin, 'the Palace of Happiness,'" says Jensa with a smile.

Arna Guðrún Jónsdóttir, the special education director at Laufásborg, has worked alongside Jensa for 20 years. She describes Jensa as one of a kind and calls it a privilege to work by her side. She truly deserves to be named Reykjavík’s Resident of the Year. 

"Every morning, Jensa sends us all a message that sets the tone for the school day. "These words of encouragement and guidance serve as reminders to nurture and lift up the children, and to find the joy and value in working with them. "Jensa leads by example, letting her actions speak for themselves as she guides the preschool. "The passion and integrity she brings to her work touch everyone. "She is there for everyone — staff and parents alike, current and former, and all those in between. "Jensa gives generously of herself to everyone who needs her, and love and wisdom guide everything she does," says Arna Guðrún.

A caring person who always gives her best

Jensa was genuinely surprised by the news and could hardly believe her ears. She called it a great honor to receive this recognition for her life's work. 

"I am deeply grateful every single day to have chosen this path in life. "Being a caring person, wanting to make a positive difference, and standing strong are what matter most. "I accept this precious award on behalf of everyone at Laufásborg — we are like one family," Jensa said in closing.

Congratulations to Jensína Edda on the nomination!