At first glance, maybe not much. But if you look a little closer… the most important things.
When Russia started the war in Ukraine, I began volunteering in Antwerp helping Ukrainian refugees with documents, housing, administration and Dutch language support.
When I met a friend Liuba, we joined our forces, and that’s how our Dutch Speaking Club was born. It’s now a warm, cozy, welcoming space where migrants, refugees and locals come together each week to practice Dutch, share stories, and connect. I’m truly proud of the cozy, supportive atmosphere we’ve created together, where everyone feels safe and seen.
Each session, we choose a different discussion topic. Today a topic I chose was Happiness.
It’s so inspiring to witness that despite our different backgrounds, languages, beliefs we have the same things in common.
Today the words I heard the most again and again in our club were family, friends, love, peace 🕊️
That’s what brings us joy.
That’s what connects us all.
That’s what makes us human.
Volunteering here reminds me each week that beneath all our differences, we share so much. We share the most important things: things that make us happy. And that gives me deep hope.
Can we all try to be a little more like Hilde and Hummam?
Can we look beyond age or origin, religions and focus on what unites us?
I believe we can. I see it happen every week. Right here, in our little cozy Dutch Speaking club in the centre of Antwerp.
Learn more about this project here.
My Story 