On February 20, Ru Paré became a space of dialogue, inspiration, and connection during the panel “Entrepreneurship as a New Beginning – The Role of Entrepreneurship in the Integration of Refugees.” The event brought together entrepreneurs, policymakers, community organizations, and residents to reflect on how entrepreneurship can serve as a powerful pathway toward integration and inclusion.
Organized in partnership with Vrouwen en Vaart, Forward-ING and Gemeente Amsterdam, the panel explored what integration means in practice and how supporting entrepreneurs with refugee and migration backgrounds contributes not only to personal independence, but also to stronger local economies and more inclusive neighborhoods. Representatives of Road of Hope, Vrouw en Vaart and the Municipality of Amsterdam shared insights and practical initiatives available for newcomers who wish to start or grow their own businesses.
The panel was led by project coordinator Agatha Kuiper and featured Marlijn van de Pol from Vrouw en Vaart en Daadkr8, Mohamed Bourik from the Municipality of Amsterdam, and Patricia Barendregt from Road of Hope. Throughout the afternoon, the discussion moved between policy, lived experience, and concrete opportunities for support, creating a dynamic exchange between speakers and the audience.
Two remarkable personal journeys stood at the heart of the event
Manal Sidawi arrived in the Netherlands from Damascus, Syria, in January 2023. Faced with a new language, a new system, and an unfamiliar culture, she described her first months as both full of possibility and filled with challenges. Learning Dutch was one of the biggest obstacles. “It felt like starting from scratch,” she shared, “but I knew I had to keep going.”
With a lifelong passion for cooking and a strong desire to stand on her own feet, Manal made the courageous decision to start her own business, even after her financial benefits ended and she had to rely entirely on herself. Through the Ondernemerschap project, she gained practical knowledge about entrepreneurship in the Netherlands, including how to manage taxes and administration. Supported by fellow entrepreneurs who believed in her vision, she transformed uncertainty into opportunity.
In February 2025, her dream materialized with the launch of Mimi’s Kitchen. Today, the catering service is known for its fresh, beautifully presented dishes and prompt delivery. More than a business, Mimi’s Kitchen represents resilience, creativity, and the taste of home. It tells a story of courage and new beginnings.
Equally inspiring was the story of Mohamed AlAsser, who arrived in the Netherlands in 2015. In Syria, he had worked for fifteen years as an engineer and contractor, running his own company focused on industrial and civil projects. Upon arrival, he faced the daunting task of understanding an entirely new system of rules, paperwork, taxes, and administrative procedures. The complexity initially felt overwhelming.
With guidance from support programs such as Ondernemerschap and encouragement from people who believed in his potential, Mohamed gradually rebuilt his professional path. Today, he leads AskPro, a company providing renovation, maintenance, and construction services. His ambition goes beyond personal success. He aims to empower other newcomers economically by offering them suitable work opportunities, thereby supporting both his family and his wider community.
Reflecting on his journey, Mohamed expressed pride in how far he has come. He emphasized that his background is not a weakness but a source of strength that has shaped his resilience and determination. While he continues to learn and grow, he already feels part of Dutch society and confident that he has something valuable to contribute.
After exchangings on what integration truly means in daily life, and practical information about available municipal and organizational support. An engaging question-and-answer session allowed participants to share reflections and seek guidance.
The evening concluded with a shared Iftar dinner and networking moment, reinforcing the sense of community that defined the event. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by Mimi’s Kitchen and a special Ramadan sweet offered by Abeer from Le Petit Sable. Gratitude was also extended to translator Jan Vincent Meertens and to the many volunteers whose dedication made the event possible.
By combining policy dialogue with lived experience, the panel demonstrated that entrepreneurship is more than economic activity. It is a bridge to participation, dignity, and belonging. In the stories of Manal Sidawi and Mohamed AlAsser, the audience witnessed how courage, support, and opportunity can transform new beginnings into lasting contributions to society.