Belonging is usually defined as being part of something — a group, a category, a collective you’re meant to fit into. But what happens when you don’t fully belong to any group? When shared nationality doesn’t create closeness, when language doesn’t guarantee familiarity, or when cultural stereotypes don’t hold you?
In ACCESS Stories this month, Sarai Velez Ramirez reflects on her experience of growing up between cultures and how living abroad can reshape the meaning of “home”. While moving through international communities in the Netherlands, she realised that shared nationality or language does not always create the sense of belonging we expect. Unexpectedly, she found a deeper connection with the Indian community, which helped her understand how identity, culture and home can evolve over time.
With insight and wisdom she came to discover that…
“Today, I live in the Netherlands.
My heart lives in India.
And I am Mexican.
None of these cancel each other out. Together, they make me whole.”
ACCESS is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation that has supported the international community in the Netherlands since 1986. English-speaking volunteers provide free, independent information and guidance on living, working and settling in the Netherlands, via a helpdesk, email support and partnerships across the country.
Settling into a new city can be quite a challenge. Join The Hague International Centre Feel at Home event at Madurodam for an informative and engaging evening!
Speak directly with experts and get answers to your questions about housing, childcare, taxes, healthcare, social clubs and more.
Whether you are a newcomer or a long time citizen of The Hague, our Feel at Home event is a great way to mingle and meet a diverse group of internationals!
This edition takes place at Madurodam, the charming miniature park where the Netherlands comes to life at a scale of 1:25.
The fourth Thursday of February, our regular meeting date, often falls during the school holidays. As has become a tradition, we are inviting you to join us for a sushi lunch meeting.
Fun, informal, and delicious, this is a great opportunity to relax and connect with one another.
Places are limited though, so please register as soon as you can and let us know if there are any food preferences the Chef needs to be aware of.
Date: Thursday 26 February 2026, 12:00-14:00 Location: Ohmu Sushi. Reinkenstraat 8, 2517 CV The Hague
CreatorFest 2.0 is where future creators learn hands-on skills, industry experience, and, meet each other.
CreatorFest
CreatorFest 2.0 is where you, a future creator, learn hands-on skills, industry experience, and meet peers. With interactive workshops, industry talks, and an a gezellie networking party, it’s a launchpad for your to make your mark! This one-day event dives deep into creative skills, from snapping the perfect street photo to crafting killer branding strategies.
Let’s face it, kicking off a career in the creative world can be a solo endeavor. CreatorFest 2.0 steps in to bridge the skills gap, helping you launch yourself into the industry with confidence, real-world know-how, and a growing network of friends, colleagues, and collaborators. Through this event, we’re making the move into the industry as a professional a lot smoother. As the name suggests, this also isn’t the first time we’re doing this event. The first edition was a huge sold out success so we’re excited to bring it back in collaboration with The Social Hub The Hague and Astrolads.
Who’s It For?
Almost Graduates: Final two years of studies and ready to start exploring.
Fresh Grads: Zero to two years out and building those first portfolio pieces.
Early Creators: Two to five years in, looking to grow, pivot, or solidify your path.
And of course everyone else that wants to develop their skill set!
You will find not only skills but mentors and connections that help you keep your creative engine running.
If you are looking for peers from queer families, then look no further. This may be the group for you! Our aim is to offer members in the international community an opportunity to meet and connect with other queer parents, intended-parents (IPs), and/or families with young gender creative/queer kids. We aim to provide a safe space for members to chat, show support, ask questions, share resources, and make new friendships.
There are over 200 members in our WhatsApp group, representing a diverse array of families throughout the LGBTIQ+ community’s spectrum in the Randstad. The childrens’ ages range from in-utero to teens. The group was started in 2024 by a new, gay dad who saw a gap among the available parents’ groups for English-speakers.
In person monthly meet-ups are planned for the adults to connect with one another and for the children to meet and play with other kids from queer families. Details are shared via the closed WhatsApp group. Building community and celebrating queer families are the core tenets of the group.
The group has been accredited by the consultatiebureau’s MIM (Moeders Informeren Moeders) group.
Your family is welcome in this growing community. Perhaps you can join the next meet-up, kids’ birthday celebration or group outings to a show, for the grownups? Stay safe and be proud.
What happens when you lose everything on a Dutch train?
In ACCESS Stories this month, international resident Rahul Chanda recounts the moment his bag disappeared, taking with it his passport, residence permit, bank cards and keys.
The story follows the practical and emotional aftermath, from reporting the loss to rebuilding daily life step by step, and highlights how support and clear information can make all the difference.
ACCESS is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation that has supported the international community in the Netherlands since 1986. English-speaking volunteers provide free, independent information and guidance on living, working and settling in the Netherlands, via a helpdesk, email support and partnerships across the country.
