For women who arrive in the Netherlands as newcomers, integration is not only about learning a new language or understanding systems. It is a deeply human process that involves rebuilding confidence, processing loss and change, and finding a sense of belonging. In New‑West Amsterdam, many women from refugee and migrant backgrounds face layered challenges: cultural adaptation, family responsibilities, uncertainty around housing or procedures, and the emotional weight of starting over.
Recognizing this reality, our Personal Development Course, at SHE location, was designed to place emotional health at the center of integration. Over 12 weeks, the course created a safe and supportive space where women could reflect on their experiences, strengthen personal skills, practice language, and connect with others who share similar journeys.
Certificate Day
On December 18, 2025, we came together for the final session of this 12‑week course. The day brought together learning, celebration, and gratitude. Activities included a Dutch language class, the completion of feedback forms, a diploma ceremony, and a shared lunch.
It was a lively and emotional moment. All four participants successfully completed more than half of the sessions and proudly received their certificates. The group included women from Syria, Palestine, Morocco, and Algeria, each bringing her own story, resilience, and perspective.
One moment was especially meaningful: one participant had been relocated from Amsterdam to a COA location near Alkmaar three weeks earlier. Thanks to the cooperation of COA, she was officially excused from an appointment at her new location so she could travel back to Amsterdam and receive her diploma with the group. Her presence reminded us how important continuity, recognition, and closure are in integration processes.
Food, Community, and Mutual Support
The celebration lunch was prepared by Manal from Mimi’s Kitchen, a Road of Hope participant who has since become an entrepreneur. She treated us to traditional Syrian and Palestinian dishes, including kibbeh, musakhan, spinach and feta samosas, and puff pastries.
This collaboration reflects our broader vision: supporting participants not only during courses, but also by creating opportunities to strengthen their independence and visibility afterward. While the food was paid for, choosing Mimi’s Kitchen was a conscious way to continue supporting a woman‑led business that grew from our community.
To protect privacy, we do not share names, but the feedback collected speaks powerfully about the impact of the course:
“I was extremely comfortable to share my emotions and feelings.” (Participant from Palestine)
“It was a great experience where I was able to learn the language and skills to manage problems in life.” (Participant from Syria)
“I learned to accept more the things that happened in my life, the good along with the bad, and to focus more on the simpler things in life.” (Participant from Algeria)
“What I learned was to handle situations better, meet new people, and share more with others so I can receive more support.” (Participant from Morocco)
These reflections highlight how emotional safety and peer connection can empower women to navigate daily challenges with greater confidence and resilience.
Gratitude to Our Partners and Team
This course and its closing celebration would not have been possible without strong collaboration: Stichting Home Empowerment, for ensuring a free and welcoming location, COA, for their flexibility and cooperation in enabling participant attendance, and Mimi’s Kitchen, for nourishing both body and community.
We also shared heartfelt thanks and small gifts with our Breath of Hope team: Berta, Bushra, Bouchra, Shefaa, and Mirna. Mirna also surprised the participants with thoughtful gifts, adding to the warmth of the day.
Looking Ahead
Building on the success of this course, new Personal Development Courses are planned to start in March 2026, with locations at AZC Willinklaan (for Arabic speakers), and Vrouw en Vaart (for Eritrean women).
We remain committed to supporting women newcomers in New‑West Amsterdam and beyond, recognizing that emotional health, community, and dignity are essential foundations for meaningful integration.