The Nexxxt Step event: a successful pilot edition

Becoming part of a community

The pilot edition brought together people from lots of different companies and walks of life for an enjoyable afternoon of mingling and learning. Some of the attendees had come to the Netherlands more than a year ago, some had been here for a few months, and three had arrived just a few days before the event. According to one participant, the afternoon offered a great starting point for their time in the Amsterdam Area: “The event helped me understand how and where to start building connections.” Another participant said that “the event showed me practical ways to build connections and become part of the community,” and a third said: “I discovered new ways to get involved in the local community.”

Finding meaningful ways to participate in local life

The event programme combined light-hearted learning about the Dutch culture, info about how to get involved with local life and lots of opportunities for chats, drinks and networking with others who are also new and trying to settle in. Host of the event, Koen Gijzel of Koentact , spoke about making new connections in your local community, Luuk van der Vaart delivered a comedy lecture about the history of the Netherlands and Serve the City’s Brigitte Vonck-Makkinje informed participants about volunteering opportunities in the Amsterdam Area.

Laughs, chats and new connections

“The historical perspective and insights into Dutch culture were fascinating,” said one participant, with another adding: “I learned more about Dutch culture, history and how to connect with others.” When it was time for drinks, Dutch snacks and networking, most participants stayed longer than the initial programme stated – proving the atmosphere was warm and inclusive. One participant even said that it offered “great opportunities for shy people to engage.”

A diverse, fun group

The 40 or so attendees came from all over the world and included new arrivals sent from their companies as well as recent graduates looking for new connections. Just as diverse were the plans people made for taking ‘the Nexxxt Step’: things to help them feel at home and get involved with their local communities. Going to inspiring cultural events such as a storytelling night at the Mezrab cultural centre, signing up for Serve The City volunteering events, putting together a padel team, attending a social event in elderly care and visiting a Japanese garden show were just some of the plans that were hatched.

“A warm and welcoming experience”

Feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive:

·       “The event gave me hope that I can learn Dutch and feel more connected to Amsterdam.”

·       “I learned that people in the city are more involved than I expected.”

·       “I found something valuable and learned I am not alone.”

·       “The event showed practical ways to make friends and build a social network.”

·       “The volunteering opportunities were very valuable.”

·       “A warm and welcoming experience that helped me feel more at home in Amsterdam.”

Join the Nexxxt Step

Are you ready to get involved? Sign up for the next event, taking place in June.

Companies can also register their international employees. Find more information and sign up.