This special gathering brought together around 50 neighbors, some newcomers, some long-time residents, to share food, stories, and meaningful conversation around communal tables. In a time when conflict, displacement, and isolation shape the lives of millions, moments like this remind us of what connects us: our voices, our experiences, and the simple act of sitting together.
The event was part of the Ongewone Ontmoeting series, an initiative where residents who rarely or never speak to one another come together to cook, eat, and engage through conversation and creativity. It’s rooted in a simple yet powerful idea: it’s easier to live in a neighborhood when you understand the people in it.
The evening began with a warm welcome and introduction from municipal partners, setting the tone for a night centered on connection and exchange. Guests were then invited to participate in conversation games and table discussions using the “kletspotje”, a playful yet thoughtful way to spark meaningful dialogue. The atmosphere was further enriched by a live musical performance from Orchestra Partout, blending cultural influences into a shared artistic experience.
Later in the evening, participants gathered for a screening of Road of Hope’s episode in the Netflix series “Somebody Feed Phil”, highlighting the stories and contributions of displaced individuals in Amsterdam. And throughout the night, a beautifully prepared meal by the culinary team at A Beautiful Mess brought everyone together around the table, reinforcing the idea that sharing food is one of the most powerful ways to build connection.
Real Conversations, Real People
(Report from a participant)
One of the most memorable parts of the evening was sitting down with people like Leila, 32, from Iran, who has been living in the Netherlands for two years. During the kletspotje game, she shared thoughtful reflections:
When asked, “What was the most dangerous moment in your life?” she recalled witnessing a man get shot during a protest in Iran.
On whether she’d rather go a week without rest or without human contact, she replied that both were equally hard to imagine.
And when asked about her hopes for the future, she expressed a wish to travel the world and start a family.
Moments like these reminded us that behind every story of displacement is a full life, with dreams, fears, memories, and strength.
A Day to Reflect – and Act
The event took place during the same month that the UNHCR’s Global Trends Report was released, highlighting the global reality of forced displacement:
Over 120 million people around the world are now forcibly displaced — the highest number ever recorded.
Of these, 43.4 million are refugees who have crossed international borders to escape war, persecution, or violence.
These are not just numbers, they reflect human lives, families, and futures in motion.
That’s why gatherings like Connecting Worlds are so important. They create moments where newcomers and locals can meet not as strangers, but as equals, learning from each other and building stronger communities.
This edition of Ongewone Ontmoeting (“Connecting Worlds”) was made possible through the collaboration of Gemeente Amsterdam, Road of Hope, Orchestra Partout, Refugee Company, and A Beautiful Mess. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the evening, and to all who continue to show up, listen, and connect.
Together, we create the kind of neighborhood we all want to live in.