HOWDO 38

2024 February / March www.howdomagazine.com

38

photo: Ewald Geerdink / kleurstof.eu

T H E M AG A Z I N E F O R I N T E R N AT I O N A L S | E I N D H OV E N A R E A

NEW YEAR - NEW COLLAB Expat Experts on 2024 Eindhoven Airport: DO AS THE DUTCH DO

k or s W rd eam ure Ha Dr Fut g r Bi hte ig Br

WE LOVE FAILING!

That’s not a typo, although it is not entirely true. No one enjoys the feeling of disappointment that comes with failure, BUT we do enjoy the benefits of failing!

The biggest reason for unpursued goals or dreams, is a deep fear of failure. A fear of letting everyone and yourself down. It’s the ego at play there.

The truth is, you need to get comfortable with failing. Any life you dream of most likely does not resemble the life you currently have. That means you will have to do things you do not normally do. Maybe you need to learn a new skill, or say NO to certain people/activities, or wake up an hour or two earlier. Whatever it is, it’ll be new. So, release yourself from the pressure of getting it right on your first or second (or tenth) attempt.

When you ‘fail’ at something, not only did you have enough courage to TRY in the first place, but now you have something to learn from! That’s the most important part.

What lessons can you carry into your next attempt?

At SDB, we believe a true failure only happens if you do not learn and simply quit. How many times have we had to change things up in our business because something didn’t

work? PLENTY. We are still learning, changing and growing.

Don’t be afraid to fail. Be afraid of not getting up after a failure - of not trying again. Your dream/ goal is important. You have it for a reason. Don’t give up on your future self!

Imagine your ideal life (your dream), and find ANY first step. Pursue it. Most likely you’ll do something wrong (you’ll fail), but you will learn from it and what you learn will send you to the next step. One day you will look around and realise that you’re living at least one of your dreams.

Oh, and HAPPY NEW YEAR! Aralys and Amar are co-owners of Sweet Dreams Bakery, where Cinnarolls are baked fresh daily!

Jan van Lieshoutstraat 14, Eindhoven www.sweetdreamsbakery.nl email: sweetdreamsbakerynl@gmail.com

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Spring discount: 10% discount on the course price!

Limitless

learning at Volksuniversiteit regio Eindhoven

Make the best New Year’s resolution ever: develop your talents! And let us help you with that. Register for a course together and both receive a 10% discount on the course price. This offer applies to the courses Dutch level 1 and the English spoken course: Poetry Circle.

Dutch courses: • Dutch level 1 (to A1) starts Tuesday, January 30, 7pm-9:15pm, 16 lessons • Dutch level 1 (to A1) starts Thursday, February 22, 7pm-9:15pm, 16 lessons • Nederlands niveau 3 DEEL 1 – naar B1 starts Monday, February 19, 7pm-9:15pm, 16 lessons • Nederlands niveau 3 DEEL 2 - naar B1 starts Monday, February 5, 7pm-9:15pm, 16 lessons • Nederlands niveau 4 - naar B2 starts: Tuesday, January 23, 7pm-9pm, 18 lessons • Nederlands niveau 6 - C1 plus starts Thursday, February 22, 7pm-9:15pm, 16 lessons

English spoken course: Poetry Circle starts January 9, 7pm-9pm, 6 lessons

Do you need more information? Call: 040-7820810 (Mon-Thu 10.00-12.30) or email us: info@vu-eindhoven.nl, or visit: www.vu-eindhoven.nl

We are an Apple Authorised Service Provider.

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Our technicians are Apple-trained, so you can trust us with all your Apple devices. That means we use genuine Apple parts to deliver certified repairs. What’s more, we’re recognized by Apple for exceptional customer satisfaction.

Dillenburgstraat 11C | 5652 AM Eindhoven | info@repairlab.nl | tel: 040-2870700

index 6

Eindless

10

Eindhoven Airport

12

Regina Coeli

16

Lynn’s Look on...

Spreek je Nederlands?

19

Financieel Adviescentrum

27

Eindhoven Sport

30

International Creative Women

34

International Women’s Club Eindhoven

38

Holland Expat Center South

42

Expat Kids

9

Eindhoven365

11

ASML

14

Wonka Podia

18

HLE

22

Expat experts on 2024

28

Eindhoven News

32

Holland Expat Center South

36

Book review by Rebekah Villon

40

Expat Spouses Initiative

44

Radio4Brainport

colofon

foreword

HOWDO Magazine is a bimonthly publication by Eindless Media Publisher Eindless Media Contact Fred van Deurzen (fred@howdomagazine.com) Editorial Office Thomas Meulenbroeks, Lynn Fletcher, Fred van Deurzen, Lidy Lathouwers, Hans Matheeuwsen Social Media Silvia Ardila Advisor Jan Michielsen Creation Thoros reclame en ontwerp Magazine Launch Karishma Vij Supriya Vij

Every year ends with resolutions for the New Year, some achievable and realistic, some are not. Every year we want to make HOWDO better and more interesting and that’s only possible with the feedback and support of our relations. Please keep doing that!!

Photography Frans Claassen Fotografie

To remain the must-read magazine for internationals in the

Distribution Tour de Ville Flyerman

opportunities to strengthen that position. In that respect: we are very

Copyright and Disclaimer All materials and content are protected under article 15 of the Copyright Act. Copying is prohibited

(and that of Frits Media and & Uit in Eindhoven)) we’re convinced that

© 2024 HOWDO Magazine HOWDO Magazine is not liable for the content of the columns and possible inaccuracies and/or typographical errors.

Many thanks to the contributors of this edition: Silvia Ardila, Beena Arunraj, Monique van den Berg, Yolima van den Berkmortel, Rashmi Bhopi, Olivia van den Broek-Neri, Monique Coolen, Marco Denis, Lynn Fletcher, Éva Földesi, Josine Frankhuizen, Peter Kentie, Lidy Lathouwers, Jean-Paul Linnartz, Heidi Los, Hans Matheeuwsen, Monique Mols, Ralu Nistor-Lustermans, Saskia Reuhman, Ariel Slaughter, Rebekah Villon, Gijs Vrenken.

Eindhoven region, it’s important to keep an open eye for pleased to announce that HOWDO Magazine has been acquired by Eindless Media. By sharing our knowledge and merging our networks we’ll be able to inform the international community and share stories even better.

For partners, contributors and sponsors there won’t be too much change for now: Lidy Lathouwers and Hans Matheeuwsen (Eindless Media) asked me to stay on as editor of the magazine in 2024, and I happily accepted that.

I’m looking forward to keeping the HOWDO legacy alive and to work together and learn from top notch people in Eindhoven’s media landscape! In the next pages, Lidy and Hans will introduce themselves and tell more about their other activities.

For now, more than ever… Enjoy our magazine!!

Fred van Deurzen

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From Eindless to HOWDO, and back Eindhoven is growing rapidly, more than other major municipalities in the Netherlands. It is expected that the city will have a quarter of a million inhabitants by the end of this year, primarily

newspaper’, ed.] in the city and the region for years.

due to migration. On average, about 750 residents

Online and as paper media. The idea was to enrich

are added each month. Over forty percent of

this product journalistically with interesting stories

Eindhoven’s population is now of foreign origin.

about the developments in the Brainport region.

That’s how Eindless also became the name of the new international magazine in the form of a

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The knowledge industry within Brainport, for

newspaper that we launched in June 23.

example, attracts many Indians to Eindhoven.

After Turkish and Moroccan inhabitants, they

The reactions have been consistently enthusiastic

constitute the largest migration group. With the

and positive, and we gratefully receive them. In the

largest group of international technology students

coming period, we will use the time to improve and

coming from Bulgaria, the number of foreign

strengthen the format and formula of the magazine.

students at Eindhoven University of Technology is

A reason for this is the acquisition by Eindless Media

also increasing. Most international students,

of HOWDO, ‘the magazine for internationals’ that

however, come from neighboring Germany.

also appears in Southeast Brabant. Publisher Fred van Deurzen wants to get rid of the business

Eindhoven residents are increasingly confronted

concerns and fully focus on the content of HOWDO.

with English as the spoken language on the streets,

We see the magazine as a valuable addition to

which takes some getting used to for many people.

Eindless. They can complement each other and

This was our reason to explore possibilities in 2022

better serve our international readers.

for the establishment of an on- and offline media platform focusing on the growing group of

‘Howdo’ is a humorous English variation of the

internationals in the Brainport region. This resulted

greeting in Brabant: ‘houdoe’. Unlike Eindless,

in a new publishing company, Eindless Media, where

HOWDO is only available in English. The free

the strengths of Uit in Eindhoven-foundation and

magazine is published every two months in a handy

FRITS Media, known for the regional magazine of the

format, making it easy to carry. HOWDO is filled with

same name, are combined.

stories and relevant information for internationals, which can be exchanged with Eindless, and vice

Uit in Eindhoven has been providing the city’s

versa. This way, both Eindless and HOWDO reach an

Agenda in a monthly ‘Uitkrant’ [‘going out

even larger audience in Southeast Brabant.

Hans Matheeuwsen

Lidy Lathouwers RUAR I

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undergoing changes. WATT Magazine is now only available digitally, and Licht op Eindhoven is also moving from paper to the internet. The question is whether this is a worrisome or a joyful development.

The Eindhoven region deserves a diverse mature

3/4/5 no

media landscape, with room for independent journalistic media, alongside the Eindhovens Dagblad and/or Omroep Brabant. This is just as much a part of living, working, and life in a metropolitan region.

In fact, regional media, both offline - on paper - and

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er 3 daysd ofs funk & so ul Nederlinsathtinevheaarljazt ofz, Ein dh oven e Christmas Winter Circus! mF Silent Fil

8 Brainport invests in a soft society #3: Storytile van Reflecties ssen Theo Maa

12

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Agenda te doen ns Storytile #2 Bosland bala Wat is er Agenda maand?

Leven in Fres luk van of nature kumeaning of de komende The 143 What is there to do g-gehectares Brabant Het sprin Wat Camino in the coming month? doet een de Sint culture for hiph people inkma thens Flemish Kempen route naar oppe Ineke Hur erklaas op een Pelgrims De Goedheili jazzfestivh Threme: de A.I. Technolo in Den Bosc al? Desig sig gma -Jan n n op Sint gie ninzijn Antwoord a better g forzetel in HelmondWo Agenda enselwereldpro op de world Wat is er The wo se Markt blemen te de komende doen a markerldly charm maand?

Hallo of t in Ein we dhove New tra en n conqu ditions Agen er the da region What is do the there to next mo nth?

Howdo, nice to see you in 2024!

online, are a significant factor in connecting groups of people in society. Those who want to bridge the

Lidy Lathouwers

gap between all residents of the region need to be

Hans Matheeuwsen

aware of the importance of media in the

Publishers & Editors-in-chief

communication chain. This includes paper media.

Eindless Media

Focusing solely on online communication excludes entire groups of less digitally skilled people.

It seems like a good idea to pause and reflect on this, to contemplate further on connection in the region, with the goal that everyone can participate.

The power of togetherness. Brainport together, so to speak.

We invite you to read and share stories or to contact us if you have a message to convey. Eindless Media welcomes you wholeheartedly.

Eindless Media is located at the address Hallenweg 2A, 5615 PP Eindhoven; T: 040-3046000; E: redactie@eindless.nl

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MAANDELIJKS/MONTHLY MAGAZINE

The must read in Brainport NL-E DI TI E & E NG LI S H E DI TION

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LESS MAGAZINE, MORE JOURNAL read the must-read in Brainport online!

www.eindless.nl Welcome to Eindless - the place where you get a unique perspective on this region full of innovation, technology, and cultural diversity with a fresh mix of stories, agenda, and service. The monthly magazine is published in Dutch and English and is delivered to 30,000 households in Eindhoven and the surrounding area, as well as to over 900 cultural and sports locations, businesses, entertainment venues, and campuses.

The future of Eindhoven city and region is dependent on the attraction of tech and design talent: skilled high tech manufacturing and design specialists. So to entice them to choose our city and region requires that we become noticed and appreciated. The global competition for talent is fierce and Eindhoven is a relatively small city with 245.000 inhabitants and 800.000 in the broader Brainport Eindhoven region. We are competing with the likes of Munich, Milan and even Silicon Valley for top engineering talent and designers to attract to our city. So to make the world curious about Eindhoven as a great place to work, live is the main goal and to contribute to social and technical challenges that makes people’s lives better.

To achieve this goal a long term strategy is formulated to brand and market the city and region to attract top talent in high tech and design, increase foreign direct investment and location of technology enterprises and research institutes.

At the heart of the strategy is the Eindhoven brand, a symbol of energy. It is a dynamic brand that belongs to the city. The ‘vibes’ from the brand logo

Eindhoven residents. They are unconventional

are free for every person in Eindhoven to invest their

players with world-class names. But Eindhoven is

energy in. To add conviction to this image, makers

not about hierarchy. It is the city of the collective,

have been invited to give the brand a face. To Share

of sharing and enriching. Which is why various image

the Vibe! And to share that unique Eindhoven feeling

makers have contributed to their city’s brand.

with the world.

Because they are proud to be a part of Eindhoven.

And that makes Eindhoven proud of them.

The #sharethevibe videos are created by the design

http://www.eindhoven.video

community of Eindhoven city. Of all nationalities and backgrounds, from students to professionals.

Peter Kentie,

The image makers involved are not just any

managing director Eindhoven365

9

Eindhoven Airport

Do as the Dutch do:

bike….

to the airport Would Eindhoven Airport be the most bike-friendly airport out there? We sure try to be. The Netherlands is a 10

cycling country. Bikes really are full-fledged means of transport to the Dutch. Where we hear some internationals referring to bikes as a way to exercise or to relax in nature, we bike to work, get groceries, pick up the kids from school – one in the front and one in the back – and we even move some furniture every now and then. So biking to the airport is also normal to us. We dare you to try and think you will love it too.

First of all, Eindhoven Airport is located not too far

The bike paths in Eindhoven and the surrounding

from Eindhoven city center as well as the surrounding

villages are very good and smooth. The Netherlands is

villages. From Eindhoven central station it’s 8.8

really made for cycling, so to and from the airport is

kilometers which takes about 30 minutes. If you live in

no exception. Besides, buses don’t run in the very

the north of Eindhoven it’s about 25 minutes. Located

early morning for the first flights, but your bikes do.

in Veldhoven? Only 5.6 kilometers and 18 minutes.

Don’t have your own bike (yet)? No problem.

That’s really not bad. But how about the luggage? Of

Eindhoven has many shared bicycles (GO sharing, Tier,

course we understand that with two big suitcases the

OV-fiets) you can rent for very little money. Most are

bike is not the most convenient. But we see many

even electric with peddle support so you’ll feel like

travelers flying with only a backpack and/or a small

you’re flying already. Don’t forget to park it at the free

trolley. The backpack goes on your back, the trolley

bike shed of P1.

either in the basket of the bike (buy a bike with transportation options, pro tip, you’ll use it more often here!) or besides the bike rolling on its own wheels, but that’s for the adventurous let’s say.

There’s also Cargoroo, a bike-sharing initiative in Eindhoven with which you can rent a cargo bike that

Gijs Vrenken, Manager Communications

easily fits two trolleys.

communications@eindhovenairport.nl

ASML

Dutch Fashion Being a columnist is a state of mind always looking out for new topics. Every event or meeting can provide inspiration. So when I walked into the Fe+Male Tech Heroes red carpet event, I was hoping for that lightbulb moment.

And there it was, my next topic: The Dutch and Fashion.

An American colleague finished this off by admitting she never really dressed up anymore, like she did when she lived in the States. Meaning/implying: ever since she married a Dutch man. Auch!

We heard you, ladies. Guilty as charged. We are practical people. We adapt to the wind and the rain and we dress sensibly. We ride our bikes and wear appropriate clothes. We don’t parade up and down a boulevard at the seaside. We just walk from A to B in a

Why did I not see this before? Obvious answer: because

straight line, fast paced.

the Dutch (including me) have a limited sense of fashion. We don’t dress up much. If you invite friends

This is why the Fe+Male Tech Heroes event at High Tech

to your party and your dress code says ‘cocktail’ or

Campus was so wonderful. Apart from the fact that it

‘festive’, your Dutch guests may freak out. They will

was great to celebrate the winners, we all owned that

probably call you to check if those new cool jeans they

red carpet. Didn’t we ladies and gentlemen? We can

just bought are ok for the occasion.

actually decide it is ok to dress up and to celebrate life.

To be the fabulous version of ourselves for a night and

So why is this so hard for Dutch people? Even the Irish,

to really enjoy that. There is hope.

I am told, dress up more often than we do. When a colleague from Ireland said: “I am never badly dressed in the Netherlands” I immediately interpreted this comment as “I could not possibly dress worse than the average Dutch person”. My Dutch sense of humor appreciated the hilarious observation. She hit a national blind spot.

Monique Mols Media relations, ASML

11

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LEARN DUTCH INTENSIVELY ALONGSIDE YOUR WORK

Have you heard that you should come to ‘the Nuns of Vught’ if you want to learn Dutch really well? Regina Coeli is the language institute when it comes to learning languages in a short time. The institute is founded by the Sisters of the Holy Order of St. Augustine.

You can follow intensive language training at our institute in Vught, but you can also join one of our training courses in Eindhoven. These small-group lessons are for people with an international background—a wonderful opportunity to learn or improve your Dutch!

With our courses, you can easily learn Dutch alongside your work. And thanks to the different entry levels, you can map out your own learning trajectory.

A MANAGEABLE WORKLOAD Our courses in Eindhoven last six weeks, with two 2-hour meetings each time. You also do homework (3 to 4 hours a week) and put the language into practice. In combination with your work, it is an intensive programme, but with the help of our language trainers, you’ll surely do well!

LEARN STEP-BY-STEP If you want to keep learning after a course, you can take next one. Each follows seamlessly on from the one before. At least, it does when you’ve done your homework like you’re supposed to...

IN SHORT � Dutch for internationals at 4 different levels � Small groups of approximately 4 people � 6 weeks of 2 evening lessons a week of 2 hours each � Led by a native speaker � Training in the Vitality Hub on the High Tech Campus (HTC 85)

CONTACT US

More information www.reginacoeli.com/htce Give us a call 073 - 684 87 90 Send an email hello@reginacoeli.nl

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14

15

Lynn’s look

on...

Lynn Fletcher

Spreek je Nederlands?

But what about the language? Simple! Turns out that the Dutch not only love to speak English but are really good at it. Not that they will admit it. Oh,

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So, you’ve taken the plunge and moved to the Netherlands, that small country sandwiched between Germany and Belgium; land of the clog-wearing giants who eat cheese by the cow load and smoke funny smelling cigarettes. An idyllic landscape chock-a-block full of windmills, canals and maniacal people on pushbikes. Well, that’s the usual story anyway, only some of which you may find to be true...

no sirreee. After protesting that they are “Not very good at English’’, the Dutch will proceed to hold court with a mastery of the English language that would put most native English speakers to shame.

Fantastic! So, what’s the problem then?

Well, I’ve been trying to learn Dutch. Oh dear. I made a promising start and quickly learnt some simple sentences. I was pleased to find that there was even a lot of similarity between Dutch and English.

For example, “Ik eet brood” means “I eat bread.”

Not so different. So far so simple. Unfortunately, once I really got stuck in, it appeared that the grammatical construction of Dutch sentences is similar to putting all the words in a bag, mixing them up and using whatever word order that happens to be randomly drawn out – as long as you put the verb at the end - except when it’s not. This makes reading and writing Dutch tricky... but not impossible. With a little practice, and a few reads of easy short stories thrown in for good measure, I was definitely making headway in my understanding, and the mixed-salad construction of Dutch sentences was beginning to look a little less messy.

Lynn’s look on...

But speaking Dutch... now that’s an entirely different

a must for the polite amongst us, takes a level of

story. There are differences in Dutch sounds that it

gggrrrr that I am still trying desperately to perfect.

seems only the Dutch, and the more sophisticated

Furthermore, I literally live in fear of ever having

sonar devices, can hear. However many times I say

to utter a sentence that includes € 999.99

“tuin” (garden) my six-year-old Dutch neighbour still

(negenhonderdnegenennegentig euro en

falls about laughing. This makes it very challenging

negenennegentig cent). I think I’ll just plump for the

when I have to go and retrieve my cat from their

thousand and spend the extra cent!

tree. Indeed, the addition of the smallest word can transform the entire meaning of a sentence.

Joking aside, I have found most Dutch people very

For example, “I hope it is useful to you?” (Ik hoop dat

receptive to my bungling attempts to speak their

je ER iets aan hebt), “I hope you are wearing

language. I mean it can’t be as difficult for them to

something?” without the “er.” Note to self: even small

understand as a Limburger talking to a Frisian.

mistakes can lead to potentially embarrassing ends

Let’s face it, the Dutch are not that used to many

to telephone conversations!

people taking the time to learn their language, so it’s perhaps not surprising that it takes a few attempts before they get their ear in. One final word of caution though. Be very careful if you find yourself asking an estate agent to help you find a rented house... but I’ll leave you to work that one out.

So, what can I conclude from all this? It’s a very tricky language with many rules and even more exceptions to the rules. Even the Dutch are confused... maybe that’s why they like speaking English so much!

And why are all the most useful phrases so difficult to pronounce? “Graag gedaan” (you’re welcome),

17

Eindhoven lets all languages shine during the National Storytelling Days The Eindhoven Library is leading the way in the

Welcoming multilingual families

Netherlands in promoting reading aloud to

The Eindhoven Library recognizes that reading aloud

multilingual children in their home language.

to children is an enjoyable experience for parent

Between January 24 and February 3, the book Help!

and child, also in the many multilingual families in

A Surprise! by Miriam Bos will be read aloud in more

our city. For the multilingual children in Eindhoven,

than 15 languages, thanks to an impressive

reading together with family in the home language is

collaboration among language groups in this

a great way to encounter new words, to discover

region.

stories from the home culture, and to foster a life-long love of reading.

As part of the event series, there will be a special

18

joint session with six languages:

But children living in the Netherlands should focus

Where: Theater of Eindhoven Library, Witte Dame

on the Dutch language, right? Don’t worry. A strong

When: 14:00 – 16:15 on Saturday, January 27, 2024

foundation in the home language and a love of

See www.hlenet.org/events/read2024 for the full

books also helps children develop the Dutch

schedule.

language.

Mortgages in

the Netherlands: changes in 2024

In the Netherlands mortgage rules change every year. For 2024 the following mortgage changes have been implemented.

NHG

15.000 EUR extra mortgage and energy label A, A+,

The National mortgage guarantee (NHG) limit is

A++. A+++ or B will give you 10.000 EUR extra.

increased from 405.000 EUR up to 435.000 EUR.

Energy Label A + + + + does not lead to higher

Including energy-saving facilities the NHG limit is

mortgage, because for these properties

461.100 EUR. This increase allows more individuals to

sustainability cannot be improved much.

secure their mortgage within the NHG coverage and in many cases will lead to the lowest interest rates

Extra mortgage with higher energylabel

available.

The higher your energy label, the higher your maximum mortgage. Because of lower energy bills,

Property tax 2%

you could afford a higher mortgage is what the

The property transfer tax for first-time buyers is 2%.

Dutch government implicates.

However when you are between 18 and 35 years of

Energy label C and D will give you a 5.000 EUR

age and the purchase price is 510.000 EUR or lower,

mortgage increase up to 50.000 EUR extra for energy

a 2% tax exemption applies. This exemption does not

label A++++.

apply to real estate investors. For them the transfer Singles can borrow more

tax rate is 10,4%.

For singles with a gross annual income of at least Extra mortgage to improve sustainability

28.000 EUR the maximum mortgage is increased by

If your new home has an energy label E, F or G, y

16.000 EUR. This measure aims to expand housing

ou can borrow 20.000 EUR extra for sustainable

options and increase availability for singles.

home improvements. Energy label C or D will lead to

If you would like to know more about purchasing a house in the Netherlands or your mortgage options, please feel free to contact us anytime. We are specialized in expat mortgages. www.mortgage040.nl Marco Denis info@fac-eindhoven.nl Tel. 06-1135 4579

19

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21

Bored?

Confused?

Fed-up with the daily grind?

Then read on…

Moving to a completely different culture, dealing with a new language, looking for

22

a school for the children, finding a job or leisure activity... there is a lot to deal with after coming to the Netherlands.

Fortunately, there are many organizations in our region where the international can go for advice and assistance or which they can join for meeting people and exchanging experiences.

IInternational Creative Women, Holland Expat Center South, and International Women’s Club Eindhoven are three of these organizations and HOWDO’s Lynn Fletcher asked their representatives about the past year and about the expectations/goals for 2024.

Expat experts on 2024

Heidi Los

President of International Women’s Club Eindhoven Bio: Heidi has been President of the International Women’s Club Eindhoven (IWCE) for the last two years, a Board member for 3.5 years and a member of the IWCE for nine years. Born in Gouda, South Holland, she has lived in Austria and the USA but has returned to Eindhoven, not once but twice, where she now resides.

What for you was a highlight for 2023?

fine...If we see a man in the school yard, we assume he took a day off and not that he might be the one who stays at home.” This observation is also borne

Looking back at 2023, one of the highlights for the

out by the need for an increasing number of evening

IWCE was the 55th anniversary garden party held in

activities, as the women are more often working

Son en Breugel, where an IWCE member kindly gave

during the day.

over their garden for the occasion.

Over the years, have you noticed any changes to the IWCE?

Have you noticed any changes within the wider community since you settled here?

Heidi explains that the club has become much more

Since 2010, Heidi has noticed a real positive shift in

diverse and today there are over 45 nationalities

the culture of the Eindhoven area. As more

represented in the IWCE. Members can also enjoy a

internationals arrived due to expansions in the tech

wider range of activities including Mahjong, running

and other industries, it has also brought a more

/walking groups, learning a language, as well as a

“we are going to help you” dynamic to the

variety of craft and hobby groups. Basically, says

community. Fantastisch!

Heidi, there is something for everyone, enabling within the community.

What can we expect from the IWCE for 2024?

Heidi says that the fabric of the field is also

In 2024 five out of eight Board members will be

changing. Nowadays, more men are coming in as

stepping down. Heidi says becoming a Board

partners and that is a positive change. Heidi

member is a great way to give back and become

explains, “It is becoming evident that we need an

instantly involved with the local community. It is not

IWC for men. I am planting seeds and considering

just about doing extra work, it is about friendship

what that might look like – a totally separate club or

and sharing and caring for each other. It’s still work

perhaps some kind of blended community. We

but in a fun way!

women to become more connected and supported

assume that men are working and that they are

23

What suggestions do you have for someone who wants to integrate into the expat community? Heidi’s top tips:

• Join a club that you have a passion for and you will meet like-minded people with a shared interest.

• Learning some Dutch means you are not only willing to make an effort but also gives an added insight into Dutch culture.

So, what are you waiting for? Let go of your fears, just step into the arena...and join the IWCE!

Olivia van den Broek-Neri

Project Coordinator Communications & Events at Holland Expat Center South (HECS) Bio: Olivia has been working at the Holland Expat Center South (HECS) since 2011 and is the second longest serving employee of the Center. Her role involves giving the international community information about how things work in the Netherlands, and organizing events that can help them to settle into the region.

Originally from California, Olivia moved to Eindhoven after marrying her Dutch husband.

24

What can the HECS offer?

with other companies and increase their network of

The Expat Center is a nonprofit governmental agency

contacts and skill sets. It also offers a location where

whose purpose is to make internationals feel

the Center can organize events for internationals

welcome and at home in Brabant. They do this by

and employers of internationals.

offering a faster service to help highly skilled migrants and scientific researchers -- as well as

Congratulations were due to HECS in November 2023

their accompanying family members -- arrange their

when they celebrated their 5000th day of helping

formalities (BSN number and residence permit a.o.).

internationals in North Brabant. The event took

HECS also organizes events, such as a monthly

place at their new location, which was attended by

Welcome Evening, as well as seminars about how to

people who had been instrumental in the Center’s

file taxes in the Netherlands, the 30% ruling, how to

success.

learn Dutch, and more. In addition, the Expat Center promotes events that are organized by other organizations as well as by the municipality.

What were the highlights of 2023 for the HECS?

What can we expect from the HECS in 2024?

In 2024 Olivia says HECS is looking to strengthen its relationships with organizations and companies in the area. Working closely with colleagues Sandy

In 2023, HECS moved to a new location: Succeed

Barkowsky (Program Coordinator) and Josine

Offices at Stadhuisplein 10. Olivia explains that the

Frankhuizen (Policy Developer/ Project Leader), the

move has provided a welcome opportunity to mix

“Living-In Program” recognises that migration is a

Expat experts on 2024 family strategy and therefore focuses its attention

and they can be easier to talk to because they have

not only on the first hire, but also on the rest of the

probably had the same difficulties as you. Make an

accompanying family. In this way, the team expects it

effort to put yourself out there and you will succeed.

will be easier for local companies to recruit and

And remember to contact Holland Expat Center

retain internationals and their families in the long

South with any questions you may have about

term by taking a more inclusive approach.

settling into Brabant!”

What do you think is important for successfully integrating into Dutch society?

The Living-In Program provides “Praat Nederlands

Olivia: “Learning the language is important, even if

internationals and the Dutch and, most importantly,

it’s just a simple greeting. And smile! A smile means

encourage internationals to learn and to speak

a lot and can be an ice breaker! If you join a club,

Dutch.

met mij” (Speak Dutch with Me!) buttons to Internationals which have proven to be a hit with locals. They serve as conversation starters between

those people are open to building a new friendship

Yolima Grandas

Co-founder International Creative Women Bio: Yolima is a passionate Colombian entrepreneur with over two decades of business experience spanning different countries. Six years ago, love led her to the Netherlands, where she has embraced Dutch life. In addition to being a proud parent of two kids and a cat, she co-founded ICW with Sally Ocana in 2018.

What for you was a highlight for 2023?

The second is the Winter Market at Muziekgebouw. With over 1600 attendees, including the esteemed Mayor Jeroen Dijsselbloem, the Winter Market was a truly

Yolima describes two main highlights of the many in

creative spectacle. What made it truly special was the

2023. First on Yolima’s list is the inaugural edition of

harmonious blend of locals and internationals, a shift

“Start Her Up,” a program tailored to fuel the dreams

from previous events that had more internationals.

of women entrepreneurs. Over four months, talented women soaked up more than 80 hours of training across various areas. They journeyed through phases

Over the years, have you noticed any changes in ICW?

of inspiration, skill-building, and connection. The program was launched in October, welcoming

Yolima explains: “Certainly! When we started five

15 women ready to conquer their entrepreneurial

years ago, our focus was primarily on international

dreams.

women entrepreneurs in the handmade or artistic

25

Expat experts on 2024 sector. Now, as we approach our fifth anniversary

connections and for people, in general, to come

this summer, we’ve witnessed an enriching evolution.

together. By collaborating with more organizations,

Our community has become more diverse,

companies, and communities in the region, ICW aims

welcoming men, Dutch women, and individuals from

to make everyone feel at home in this vibrant

various sectors.”

community.

Have you noticed any changes within the wider community since you settled here?

And the third area of work involves welcoming more

Yolima has absolutely noticed changes. She says that

for the creative men in Eindhoven.

what’s interesting is that internationals are choosing to stay longer, seeking multiple ways to connect and belong. It’s not just a short-term stay as expats; it’s more like developing a long-lasting love.

People are actively looking for meaningful connections.

What can we expect from the International Creative Women for 2024?

26

Dutch women and men into our creative realm.

In collaboration with Fontys, we’re crafting solutions, designing activities, and building platforms tailored

What suggestions do you have for someone who wants to integrate into the expat community?

Yolima says: “My advice is simple: get out of the house! Eindhoven offers a plethora of activities every day, from sports to cultural clubs. Sign up, many are free or low-cost, and meet people – both Dutch and internationals. The monthly welcome evening organized by The Holland Expat Center is a great

In 2024, ICW expands in three key areas. First and

opportunity, including a stop at Creative Town, our

foremost, the “Start Her Up” initiative remains a

community centre, where you can learn more about

cornerstone, providing women with the resources

ICW.”

needed to succeed. ICW will delve deeper into regular meetings (coffee/wine & ideas) and classes

Visit internationalcreativewomen.nl/agenda and

to nurture growth.

discover the heartwarming gatherings and activities waiting for you. It’s an open invitation to join ICW,

The second area focuses on fostering connections.

share experiences, and be part of their collaborative

ICW is actively working to create even more

journey.

opportunities for women to make business

So, what have we learnt from these amazing women? Moving to a new environment can be intimidating but there is help available and each of these organizations are ready and waiting to hold your hand. Also, join a club, any club and get out of the house to meet people. Smile! And learn Dutch...or at least try

Eindhoven Sport

Wushu Taiji Vlijt:

Chinese martial arts with many forms, styles and techniques Frensly Vlijt started with Wushu, Taiji and Qigong when she was 18 years and has been teaching with great pleasure for 28 years!

Taiji: Chinese self-defense art for inner strength, to

More info:

improve your health, feel good about yourself and

f.vlijt@on.nl

experience peace.

tel. +31 6510.403.69

Qigong: Chinese movement therapy to restore

https://wushu-kungfu-vlijt.nl

balance in body and mind so that new and fresh The Taiji class offers a great way

Wushu is a whole lifestyle that you work on every

to unwind as well as a fun and

day. It’s not just fighting with or without weapons, it

supportive group of fellow

also has a soft side, Taiji Quan. This allows the

practitioners. The experienced

energy to flow by making slow, controlled

Shifu (master) provides an

movements. It is also meditation, in which you train

inspiring and educational

your mind to a higher level.

With this, it can help improve endurance, flexibility, sense of balance, strength, and overall energy levels.

Another popular reason (especially among children) to engage in this is to develop ‘life skills’.

Melissa Pereira

energy (qi) can flow.

experience, making the lessons both educational and enjoyable.

The peace I feel after every lesson is unparalleled; the

rhythmic movement has made my body more flexible and improved my focus. These classes

The lessons are suitable for everyone aged 30 and

are my weekly oasis of calm and are an

over. It is possible to train 3 times a week:

essential part of my well-being, leaving me

• Tuesday from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, Gymnasium (De Toeloop) Jozef Israëlslaan 2a 5642 KA,

stronger and more balanced both physically and mentally.

Eindhoven • Thursday (fixed training day) from 7:45 PM to 8:30 PM, Gymnasium primary school “De Boog” Koudenhovenseweg Zuid 202, 5641 AC Eindhoven • Saturday from 9:30 am to 11:30 am, Gymnasium (De Toeloop) Jozef Israëlslaan 2a 5642 KA, Eindhoven • Costs: €30 per month.

Eindhoven Sport Is part of the municipality of Eindhoven

27

Tips to improve

your networking skills in the New Year

28

Patat, Paraplu, Piazza & PSV Networking is a vital skill for any professional who wants to advance his/her career, learn from others, and build meaningful relationships. People are broadly classified into introverts, ambiverts and extroverts, and networking can be a boon or bane depending on your situation.

Networking makes people vulnerable, and with some

hang around in the periphery, and that’s a good

help, one can navigate it better. Research shows that

place to start. While it is true that one should

all three categories have both positive and negative

challenge oneself and get out of one’s comfort zone,

aspects. It’s not as simple as “walk the room and

but you also have to pick your battles. Pick the ones

collect as many business cards as possible”.

that are worth the effort.

Ambiverts have overlapping characteristics and could benefit or be burdened by both traits.

Invest a little time making a list of people you would like to talk to at the event. It’s easy to start a

Tips for the introverts

conversation when you’re interested in their work.

The goal is to build or expand your web of

Arrive early and try striking conversations when it’s

relationships. You can develop and grow an

not yet crowded, or hang around late and remember

extensive social network while being yourself.

to take a break in-between especially during the noisy peak.

Scouting the room is the head start, followed by finding the introvert corner. Usually, other introverts

Harness the power of your network. Ask your

Eindhoven News network about whom you can meet. Or request to be

Extroverts like to chat but remind yourself to listen

introduced. That’s a nice way of signing off from one

patiently and not interrupt. A great way is to think

group to another.

before you speak and more importantly, ask questions.

Make a mental list of questions prior to the event so

In Susan Cain’s book Quiet: ‘The Power of Introverts

that you can have a few topics of conversation on the

in a World that Can’t Stop Talking’, she outlines the

top of your head when the time comes.

Free Trait theory. This theory says that fixed traits coexist with free ones: “we are born and culturally

If you’re an extrovert, your main objective during a

endowed with certain personality traits such as

networking event should be to capitalize on your

introversion. However, we can and do act out of

gregarious personality while also controlling it a little

character to serve our core beliefs. We can

to avoid overwhelming other people. Don’t allow your

dramatically enhance our lives when we get involved

nerves get the better of you; try to move carefully.

in personal, meaningful projects supported by

Make relationships that will help you advance your

others and not unduly stressful. That’s how an

career in the short and long terms by using your

introvert is capable of hosting and enjoying a big

natural friendliness. Following up on your connections

fundraiser for a cause she believes in”.

on social media and making appointments when necessary is an apt way of going ahead.

Embrace your introversion is something that Cain advocates. Introverts are better off scheduling as many events as they can manage and not forcing themselves into all networking events that look promising. Introverts are known to make deeper

29

connections at networking events as they are slow to move from one connection to another.

Tips for Extroverts Being extroverted is valuable in our always-on business world. The push toward collaboration, connection, and getting in front of audiences all require you to speak up and be seen—two things extroverts are great at. It can be easy to get caught up in the rush of making your way around the room and talking to everyone you can. The thing is, if you’re jumping from one conversation to the next, you may not be connecting as well as you think you are.

Make a targeted approach: Finding out where you need support can be a good way to decide whom to

About

approach. At the same time, be cordial with your

Beena Arunraj is the editor-in-chief and

known acquaintances. Make sure to know from a

director of Eindhoven News. She is a freelance

conversation the person’s field of work, what

writer, creates powerful web content and inks

brought him/her to the event and what they are

brand campaigns for her living. The most

looking for. You could think of exchanging some

important principle in her life is «equality and

informational resources or referring a contact.

fairness» so, a natural fit in the Netherlands.

30

When I accompanied my spouse across the Atlantic to the Netherlands for his work, little did I know that my life would be on the brink of transformation. Let me explain. From being a busy physician, I moved to embracing slow living with my young children and I put my free hours into exploring my creativity. I began with my two passions, writing and tending to plants, and I found myself drawn to creating plant terrariums. It gave me so much joy and fulfillment that I had an epiphany and I knew I wanted to carve a life of creativity and fulfilling work. So, when I saw the call for submissions for “Start Her Up”, a program by International Creative Women in collaboration with Gemeente Eindhoven, I felt as if the universe was giving me a sign to bring my dream into reality.

Applying to it was a wonderful decision.

In this program, I met 14 other women who had come to the Netherlands, leaving their flourishing careers in their respective countries and looking to begin again or pivot into different careers. As we, women, know all too well, it is really hard to establish oneself in a new country that speaks a different language, and a lack of network makes it more difficult. Within this program, I felt a sense of camaraderie with these women because although we were all from different professions, with varied experiences, from various cultural backgrounds, and with unique business proposals, we all had a common string binding us - we were all daring to carve out our paths despite the odds. This program was designed to overcome those very odds and set us up for success.

Rashmi Bhopi We had sessions about the various nuances of starting a business every Thursday and Saturday, and we spent time brainstorming with our individual and each other’s business ideas. I was amazed at the repertoire of teachers, coaches, and experienced entrepreneurs we had who were guiding us through this process of starting our businesses. The golden circle of “why, how, what”, a concept popularized by Simon Sinek, changed my perspective on what it

International Creative Women

meant to be an entrepreneur. I have learned so

human relationships. The “why” is what will guide my

much about the value of colors, design thinking,

decisions at every step of business growth. And with

brand clarity, the importance of buyer persona and

that guidance, I can create economic value for my

the customer journey, and how to use ads,

business.

something I would have no idea about without this program. One particular session that resonated with

It warms my heart to be part of such an amazing,

me more was the finance class with Harald

inspiring, and supportive group of talented, creative

Verstappen. He emphasized that we must not sell

women who are rooting for each other’s success. We

ourselves short even though we see ourselves as

are trailblazers, ready to show the world what we can

amateur entrepreneurs. Studies have shown that

achieve as women entrepreneurs. My gratitude to

women downplay their abilities more than men,

the program StartHerUp, for being the beacon of

especially on the economic front, much to their

light, the wind beneath our wings, for bringing us

disadvantage. This particular session has made all of

together, as we try to soar higher and higher.

us more confident about the value we bring to the table through our businesses.

Rashmi Bhopi Founder Artist - TeapotTerrariums

Over several weeks into the program, I have progressed from simply having a hobby to now having a business model plan. I have dug deeper into understanding my customers’ pain points and every time I face a block or I am unsure of something, I go back to my “why” and my mood board. The program’s various sessions have helped me understand that the essence of any business is to have a strong sense of meaningful purpose, and that fundamentally, a business is about cultivating

International Creative Women | ‘T College 22, 5611EH Eindhoven | www.interntionalcreativewomen.nl

31

Celebrating 5000 Days of Helping Internationals!

By Olivia van den Broek-Neri

32

On 9 November 2023, my colleagues and I celebrated Holland Expat Center South’s 5000th day of helping internationals settle into Brabant! The event took place in the building of our new office: Succeed Offices. It was great to see so many familiar faces who have contributed to the Expat Center’s success over the years! It was also wonderful to see many new faces that have joined forces with us to help us to continue to help internationals in the region! It was a great time to look back at what we have accomplished and to look toward our future!

O nto the next 5000 days!

my job! Speaking directly with the people I am working for is an important part of my job, but it is also great fun! As we swap stories about what brought us to Eindhoven and how things are going, it makes me appreciate the work that I do so much more. It also makes me realize how much we have achieved over these past 5000 days – and what a great group of people I am privileged to be able to work with!

Last year provided the opportunity to attend many events – and sometimes multiple events took place on the same day and at the same time! This is a testament to the activity that is taking place in our region. Although we cannot be at more than one place at a time, it is amazing to see how much is going on and how active the different international communities are in the region.

with hybrid meetings, but also numerous

Did you know that Holland Expat Center South also gives presentations?

opportunities to meet people in person. Looking

Aside from attending events, I was also invited to

back, I realize how much I had missed that part of

give presentations, which is always a delight!

2023 was a bit of a ‘new normal’, which was filled

Holland Expat Center South Check out our upcoming events: • Welcome Evening: 2 February, from 18:30-21:00 • F iling Your Income Tax in the Netherlands Webinar: 22 February, from 19:00-20:00 • Welcome Evening: 1 March, from 18:30-21:00 • How to File Your Dutch Taxes Webinar: 5 March, from 19:00-20:00 For more information about our events, go to: www.hollandexpatcenter.com/events

Although I do not have an answer to every question, my years of working at Holland Expat Center South, and of living in Brabant, have resulted in a vast knowledge. I am happy to share this information with others and welcome the opportunity to do so!

Holland Expat Center South is a nonprofit

Of course, I still have plenty to learn, which is why it

governmental agency that assists

is important for me to stay involved in the

internationals living and working in the

international community and to continue to speak

province of Noord-Brabant. Internationals are

directly with other internationals at our events. I can

welcome to contact us with any questions

help them, and they can help me!

about settling in and living in the region: www.hollandexpatcenter.com/contact/.

Holland Expat Center South works closely with many organizations in the region, and we also give

Register for our monthly Living In Brabant

presentations at the International School Eindhoven

Newsletter:

and International School Breda. These presentations

www.hollandexpatcenter.com/newsletter/.

give an overview of the services we offer, but it also includes a question-and-answer portion where we can connect internationals to the vast network of clubs, organizations and services that could help them.

We are also happy to be present with an information stand at events organized by other parties and in 2023 we did so at the Eindhoven University of Technology and Philips. We take material, including our ‘Expat’s Guide to Brabant’ and ‘The Living in Guide: Eindhoven Region’ and the ‘Education in the Netherlands Booklet’ with us, as well as our ‘Praat Nederlands Met Me’ buttons, flyers about our upcoming events, and more! If you are interested in

Olivia van den Broek-Neri is Project

having us present at one of your events, just send us

Coordinator Communications & Events at

an email at info@hollandexpatcenter.com! Together,

Holland Expat Center South.

we can help internationals settle into Brabant!

33

Caring for

elderly people

Women for Women | stronger together 34 In the Netherlands, living independently, within your

The ideas on how exactly to care for elderly people

own home, at an elderly age, has been encouraged

also changes over the years. For example, with new

for many years. Initially it sounded reasonable. With

generations, or people’s new wishes in life. The

care and support at home, this would be the

system itself also changes, with changes in

solution to the fast-growing population. But when

technology and decisions made by governments.

one’s health takes a turn for the worse, more

These changes are seen in every culture.

specialized care is needed. What’s more, the feeling of isolation will slowly enter the lives of elderly

As international readers of HOWDO, most of you are

people; of which the impact is often underestimated.

living far away from your parents, sometimes multiple

Therefore the need for elderly social activities,

days of traveling away from them! As your parents

preferably community based, is growing faster than

grow older the care for them, and your contribution to

we can anticipate. The pressure on the health care

this, will become inevitable. However, the distance

system and the workers specifically is huge and ever

obviously won’t make your situation any easier.

growing, as well as the pressure that the children of elderly people experience to aid in this care.

Navigating the intricate balance of self-care, caring for others, working, and maintaining family- and

Each culture has different ways of approaching the

friend connections can be a significant challenge.

care for elderly people. In many cultures the role of

Especially in the fast-paced and global world we live

the children is even bigger than in the Netherlands.

in.

In some cultures, children are expected to take care of their parents (financially and physically) even

Personally, besides being a wife, mom, President of

from a very young age.

the International Women’s Club, and coach by

International Women’s Club Eindhoven profession, I am also my parents’ daughter. I find myself juggling the responsibilities of daily life and the increasing needs of my parents, while living only 1,5 hours away from them. As I know I am not the

CARE FOR ELDERLY FAMILY NEEDS

(VOLUNTEER) WORK NEEDS

only one in this situation, I would love to share what I have learned over the past years: MY OWN NEEDS

• First, evaluate what you can do.

• Make sure you know and respect your own needs (while you are so focused on their needs). Your own (family) needs and responsibilities are always key.

• Talk to your siblings, they are probably not aware of the squeeze that you are in: torn between your

MY PARENTS NEEDS

SOCIAL NEEDS

life abroad and the expectations of the care for your parents, Meanwhile, listen to their stories too, they deal with the same issue from another perspective. Make sure you are all on the same page. Together you are stronger.

• Express gratitude for your own culture and your

By Heidi Los, for International Women’s Club Eindnoven

host-culture. Create your own, new culture, as a blend of both.

I would like to add one more thing. Although you

• Treat self-care as non-negotiable. You can only care for others if you care for yourself.

• Care for the day to day-care givers, in the end they are the ones who do a lot of the work.

• Prepare for emergencies: make sure you have a plan prior to the stressful moment that you must

might feel young now, sooner or later you will grow old yourself. It’s good to think about your needs and expectations in advance. It’s not likely that your children will be living next door, let the impact of this fact sink in. Especially as an international in the Netherlands.

go back to your parents. Organize a support system for those who stay back home.

Heidi Los

• Finally, be aware of the impact of supportive networks. As we navigate the complexities of our lives, let us reflect on the power of open communication, the strength found in shared experiences, and the resilience that stems from understanding and supporting one another.

I am fortunate to have the International Women’s Club as a support system. Surrounded by friends who understand my struggles and share their own experiences, we have created a community where we uplift and empower each other. It’s a reminder that articulating our needs is not a sign of weakness but a pathway to mutual understanding and support.

For more information about the IWCE, please visit: www.iwce.nl

35

Life After Death in 36

Epitaph of a Small Winner

By Rebekah Villon

When reviewing books for HOWDO, I normally look for award winners or bestsellers or books that people are talking about, but I recently picked up this slim little volume in a used bookstore, and it is so extraordinary that I had to share it with you. Epitaph of a Small Winner (also known in English as The Posthumous Memoirs of Brás Cubas) by Machado de Assis was first published in 1880, and the specific translation I read was by William L. Grossman in 1952.

However, the tone of the book is shockingly modern, with the wry self awareness and meta commentary one would expect from something written 200 years later.

The narrator of the book, Brás Cubas, is an aristocratic Brazilian, telling his life story from beyond the grave. He relates his various ambitions, affairs, and entanglements, admitting that he is somewhat vain, petty, capricious… shaped by his love for the married Virgilia and the ravings of his philosopher friend Quincas Borba, he moves through life driven by impulses and actions without commitment, and without personal consequence.

Book Review by Rebekah Villon

To tell the truth, my beliefs reflected those of a barber whom I had patronized in Modena and who was distinguished by the fact that he had no beliefs. He was the flower of the barbers. No matter how much time a haircut required, the customer was never bored, for the barber interspersed the strokes of his comb with a wealth of piquant sayings and racy jokes… he had no other philosophy. Nor did I.

“Why do you want to live longer? To continue to devour and be devoured? Are you not sated with the struggle? You have experienced again and again the least vile and least painful of my gifts: the brightness of morning, the gentle melancholy of dusk, the quietness of night, the face of the earth, and, last of all, sleep, my greatest gift to man. Poor idiot, what more do you wish?”

- Machado de Assis

- Machado de Assis Machado de Assis is widely regarded as the greatest The story of Cubas’ life, however, told in short,

of all Brazilian writers. Epitaph of a Small Winner is

suggestive chapters that redouble and comment on

considered the first Brazilian novel in the modern

each other, isn’t really what the book is about. The

style, although some argue that it is the forefront of

book is written as a dialogue with the reader, on the

realism, and others that it is anti-realist. In other

pretext that the narrator, being dead, can be fully

words, his style is unique, and this book has been

transparent and honest about himself. He devotes

the subject of analysis and heated debate since it

many pages to the philosophy of his friend, called

was first written. Along the way, it has inspired

Humanitism, which justifies all actions as originating

people like Salman Rushdie, Susan Sontag, Woody

from a pan-personal impulse that transcends ethics

Allen, and Dave Eggers. It is funny, thoughtful,

and morality… before revealing that this friend was

unexpected, and beautifully written. In 2020, two new

insane. The psychological core of the book lies in the

and widely-acclaimed translations were released,

beginning, in a dialogue with all-powerful and

sparking new interest in the book, and a new

indifferent Nature:

generation of readers are discovering this utterly remarkable work.

Do not feel badly if your kindness is rewarded with ingratitude: it is better to fall from your dream clouds than from a third-story window.

- Machado de Assis

Questions? Comments?

Suggestions for what I should read next? Let me know at rebekah@howdomagazine.com

37

The Living In Program is part of the Municipality of Eindhoven - Holland Expat Center South. We help internationals to settle in and to feel more at home in the Eindhoven region. This time an introduction of our new colleague; Sandy Barkowsky

For more information about the Living In Program, please contact Josine Frankhuizen of Holland Expat Center South: J.Frankhuizen@eindhoven.nl Check all our free of charge events on our website eventpage: www.hollandexpatcenter.com/en/events or follow us on Linkedin and Instagram.

38

Interview with Sandy Barkowsky by Josine Frankhuizen

In previous years, my predecessor Ed Heerschap, has created the position of program coordinator of the Living In Program as part of Holland Expat Center South. He has dedicated his attention to welcoming internationals in Eindhoven and together with so many, created a welcoming environment.

We have the same mission and I am looking forward to the future. Welcoming and retaining international talent is the ambition of the Living In Program. I feel energetic to continue on this journey together.

Happy to start, so let’s take off!

Great to hear! Could you first tell me a little bit more about your background?

It is in my family name already. My father was

Welcome Sandy, to the team!

Starting the new year, what are you looking forward to?

German and came to the Netherlands to be with his

Thank you, Josine! I am looking forward to connect

started, and my passion for travelling and

and collaborate with internationals, international

internationalization. I studied International Tourism

communities, employers and other organizations in

Management and Consultancy in Breda and enjoyed

Eindhoven.

meeting new people from all over the world.

love, my mother. He found a job and they settled near Rotterdam. This is also where my journey

Holland Expat Center South

Now, I am a mother of a 3-year old daughter. I settled in a small village in Brabant. And as I don’t travel as much as I used to, I am really happy to be part of Eindhoven, a vibrant international city. Each time I arrive in Eindhoven, I can feel the vibe and I understand why Eindhoven attracts so many internationals.

What inspired you to take this job?

Holland Expat Center warmly welcomed me last year in their team as account manager. To have the same objectives and a joint purpose which is so close to my heart, makes this more than a job. I know how lucky I am.

And every 1st Friday of the month, we organize a Welcome Evening for newly arrived internationals.

Moreover, I know what it is like to settle in a new

As “newcomer” myself, I also joined the guided

country, so I can empathize with newcomers. I hope

walking tour. The tour guides of Eindhoven247 really

to be a good host and a good team player for

share their enthusiasm for the city.

everyone.

What did you experience so far?

And the last question: What should internationals in Eindhoven be aware of ?

I already got a good impression of the Living In

Holland Expat Center and the Living In Program offer

Program during last year. So much is organized for,

so much to internationals. Have a look at our

and together with internationals. My enthusiasm

website and read the new edition of the Living In

started with joining the closing event of Talent100, a

Guide with more in depth information on a variety of

program organized in collaboration with Expat

topics, including Culture & Leisure, Education &

Spouses Initiative.

Careers, Health and more.

I was also happy to join our Living In Lounge on

I really hope we can contribute to your needs!

Health in November. Together with organizations from our partner network, we shared information about health, but also wellbeing. A topic that became more vital.

39

It is said that most people, on average, will change careers between five to seven times during their lifetime, but when you add cross-border relocation 40

with different cultures and languages to that

From Italy to the Netherlands

equation, everything becomes more challenging.

Despite not having had much success finding a

This is exactly what Éva Földesi has had to navigate.

fulfilling career in business administration in Italy, Éva began looking for her place in the Dutch labour market even before setting foot in the Netherlands.

Originally from Hungary, Éva arrived in Eindhoven in

She said, “I started to search for jobs in August 2021.

October of 2021 from Italy with her partner, a PDEng

With less applications, I received more calls and

trainee at the Eindhoven University of Technology.

invitations for interviews which was really surprising after being unsuccessful in Italy.” In those early days nothing seemed to work out, but she persisted. “We just landed and the next day I had the kick-off meeting for the VII edition of the Expat Spouses Initiative (ESI) Women for Women (WfW) program and an interview in the afternoon.”

It was this interview that would lead to her first ‘yes.’

The Second ‘Yes’ Her elation of starting a new job was short lived.

“I didn’t fit in in that environment, so I kept looking and participating in interviews.” The WfW program was in full swing. With her mentor and the other program participants by her side, Éva found a

Éva Földesi

supportive community – her tribe. “I got an amazing

Expat Spouses Initiative mentor, Ingrid. She helped me prepare for the

Do Your Research

interviews, told me what to emphasize, how to

Whether through formal or informal sources,

present myself, and advised me when things turned

reading as much as she could about the

serious.”

Netherlands before arriving helped her. She also says the Holland Expat Center is an excellent

Éva could not be happier with the outcome of her

resource, along with the IamExpat page. Their

job search. “I am now working for Salvia

websites have everything expats need to know

BioElectronics at the High Tech Campus Eindhoven

about moving to and living in the area.

as an office manager. Their mission is to provide drug-free solutions that restore health for people

Find Support

suffering from chronic migraines.”

Éva recommends that trailing partners find an organization such as the Expat Spouses Initiative,

Making the Netherlands Home

that can help them find their way into the Dutch

Éva now wants to turn her attention to other aspects

labor market. It is an excellent starting point to

of moving to a new country like settling in, learning

gather career-related support and to network with

Dutch, and continuing to find members of her tribe.

other like-minded people.

The WFW program has helped: Join A Community “I have great connection with the other girls from

Of course, having a job is not enough. To really

my tribe. It’s important to support each other

feel at home in your new surroundings you need

because we are all in the same situation, so we

to find a community either through sports or other

completely understand what the other is going

activities to meet and connect with new people.

through.”

Don’t Give Up But she has found connection and community in

Landing in a new environment is tough and things

other places. “I found a Facebook group, Italians in

don’t always fall into place easily, but with

Eindhoven. I also participate in Girl Gone

persistence and flexibility you will remain open to

International (GGI) Eindhoven.” While it’s harder to

new experiences and opportunities.

connect with Dutch people now, Éva hopes that will change with time. “I want to start doing sports. That

Have you been inspired by Éva’s story? Or are you

will be another point where I can connect with Dutch

looking to make a professional change or need help

people and learn the language.”

finding your own tribe? Contact the Expat Spouses Initiative to start the journey of revamping your

For other internationals looking to settling in

personal and professional development.

Eindhoven, Éva recommends that you:

If you are an international looking for support to get market ready, email ESI at info@expatspousesinitiative.org. They can help you find the job of your dreams.

41

Thriving Together:

Expat Kids’ Guide to Eindhoven’s Community Starting a new year in a new city can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for expat kids. However, with the right habits and recommendations, we can set ourselves up for an amazing year ahead. That’s where Silvia, the expat mama leading the project “Expat Kids in Eindhoven,” comes in. She has planned a variety of free activities in different areas to help us settle into our new home and create wonderful memories together.

42

First and foremost, as expat kids, it is important for

also the only way to grow and learn. Trying new

us to embrace the new experiences and

activities, making friends with the locals, and

opportunities that await us in Eindhoven. This can

exploring the city’s hidden gems are just a few ways

be achieved by keeping an open mind and being

we can broaden our horizons and make the most of

adaptable. Moving to a new city brings about

our time in Eindhoven.

significant changes, from the language spoken to the customs and culture. By embracing these

Another habit that can contribute to our success is

differences, we can immerse ourselves in our new

the practice of goal-setting. Setting achievable goals

surroundings and truly make it our home.

helps us stay focused and motivated throughout the year. Whether it’s improving our language skills,

One habit that will greatly benefit us is the

joining a new sports team, or excelling in academics,

willingness to step out of our comfort zones.

having clear objectives can provide us with a sense

Stepping into the unknown can be scary, but it is

of direction and purpose.

We cordially invite you to read an article about the dream book that can serve as both an activity and a means to set goals for the upcoming year in Eindhoven as a family. This article can be found on our website where we explain Step by Step what to do with the kids.

In addition to personal habits, there are some recommendations for expat kids to make the most out of their time in Eindhoven. Firstly, we should

Expat Kids

take advantage of the free activities and events

contribute to our success and make our experiences

organized by Silvia Expat mama under the project

in Eindhoven more rewarding.

“Expat Kids in Eindhoven.” These activities are designed to not only provide fun and entertainment

In conclusion, as expat kids starting a new year in

but also facilitate the integration process by bringing

Eindhoven, it is essential for us to establish habits

families together. From picnics with family Days,

that will help us succeed and recommendations that

cultural outings, supporting meets-up, workshops

will allow us to make the most out of our time in this

there is something for everyone to enjoy.

new city. With Expat Kids in Eindhoven organized activities and support, we have the perfect

This year, we are excited to announce that we have

opportunity to explore our new home, build strong

organized numerous free activities for kids and

relationships, and create lifelong memories.

families to enjoy. We invite you to join us and be a

By embracing the new experiences and

part of all the fun. Please visit our website to see our

opportunities, stepping out of our comfort zones,

monthly agenda, where you can register for these

and setting achievable goals, we can look forward to

activities and create amazing memories with other

an amazing 2024 in Eindhoven.

kids and families.

Furthermore, it is crucial for expat kids to prioritize social connections. Building a support network in our new home helps us feel grounded and provides a sense of belonging. We understand this need and encourage you to interact with other expat kids and local children. As we make friends and develop relationships, we become part of a community that understands and supports us.

Finally, we encourage you to maintain a positive

Expat Kids in Eindhoven

outlook and embrace the challenges that come our way. Moving to a new city can be tough at times, but

To find out more about us, visit

with a positive mindset, we can find a silver lining in

www.silviaardilalovebygrace.com and check out

every situation. The ability to adapt, persevere, and

our Facebook page ‘Expat kids in Eindhoven’ or send

maintain a sense of optimism will undoubtedly

an email to expatkidsineindhoven@gmail.com

43

Leaders on Board:

the radio stories Did you ever wonder what makes some organizations more successful than others? What about why some people seem to get what they want easier than others? In the Eindhoven Brainport region, we have plenty of organizations that became internationally successful, yet their paths to success are usually more complicated and more complex than what it might seem at first glance. But what drives the outcomes and 44

results? The people, the processes, the behaviors, or maybe a combination of all such aspects and more?

Radio 4 Brainport, The Expat Station regularly hosts

“comfortable with the uncomfortable”. Bart

on the impact that they have, on their visions and

Ghysels, our first guest, told us how his passion

how they connect to a bigger purpose while getting

for sports and especially for boxing helps him

not only professionally but also personally fulfilled.

to find his balance again whenever he has a

In fact, #RaluOnBoard, is a regular radio program and a podcast series. Program host Ralu Nistor-

setback as an entrepreneur.

2. Do not let stereotypes limit your ambitions,

Lustermans is a business transformation coach and

break through them, create your own path that

an internal auditor who likes to create an

aligns with your passion and values, is what

environment where her guests can inspire others.

Miriam Frosi taught us, based on her experience

Since the launch in 2023, she had 7 fantastic and

as an Italian woman in Dutch politics with a

inspiring guests, who all left us with lots of food for thought that we like to share Miriam Frosi

1. Entrepreneurship means becoming

leaders to elaborate on their leadership stories and

passion for breaching cultural barriers.

3. Discover what makes you feel at home while living abroad. Make where you are your home. Embrace the stage of settling in a new country. These were valuable insights by Mira Dreessen, a psychologist by education and a people-believer by vocation.

4. To move forward in a world full of challenges and to find sustainable solutions, we need everyone’s skills and strengths. We need to embrace the diversity of atypical thinking and

Radio4Brainport

allow for the right answers to respond to the

long-lasting agreement. But our Eindhoven

wrong questions; this is a valuable insight we

mayor, Jeroen Dijsselbloem also brings his

got from Arnout Nederpelt, who is an inspiring

desire to connect closer to the multi-national

atypical leader.

citizens as he advises to cut our hedges down

5. Tapping into your “Why”: Defining your mission

to one meter, and don’t let them grow to

will give you a career, not only a job, is what

separate us from our neighbours. He

Alina Totti told us, as she followed her heart to

encouraged us to connect more, to listen to

the Netherlands, where she discovered her

each other and build bridges between our

mission on helping the migrant workforce. She

different communities.

challenges the status quo of the migrant working market.

6. To be successful in our personal and

More interesting guests are lined up for 2024.

Inspiring podcasts can be heard on https://

professional life we need to build not only

radiopodcasts.icu/index.php/ralu-on-board/ or on

strong but also weak connections. Both are

Spotify under Podcasts 4 Brainport.

equally important for getting to meet those people who will ask us the right questions, the questions which will bring us new perspectives.

This is one of the many insights from Bert-Jan Woertman, who is an incredible connector and initiator of many amazing initiatives in the Brainport area.

7. Interestingly, no matter whether 19 European countries must agree on one monetary policy or whether 21 local communities in the Brainport

Radio4Brainport.org is on air 24/7 on 747 AM and

region need to agree on a common strategy on

DAB+ for the international community in the

innovation or on how to accommodate house

Eindhoven region. Feel free to get in contact via

seekers, a deep understanding of their reel

info@radio4brainport.org, also if you like to join us

needs and concerns is the key to reach a

“on board”.

45

Friday 9 - Wednesday 14 Febuary | party music

Carnaval in Effenar Free entrance | + House of Rock and many more

Thursday 22 February | garage rock

Mooon

Friday 23 February | Afro folk

Bongeziwe Mabandla Friday 23 February | Turkish pop

46

Buray

Wednesday 28 february | alternative rock

New Model Army Thursday 7 March | Altstadt | indie pop/rock

Zimmerman Friday 8 March | hiphop

Ultramagnetic MC's Saturday 9 March | punk

SØWT + Kalaallit Nunaat + To Adelaide

Janine Jansen

THU 25 JAN

Accademia Bizantina Vivaldi’s Four Seasons classical

FRI 2 FEB

Maria João Pires & Ignasi Cambra

Master pianists play solos and duets classical

SUN 4 FEB

The Bootleg Beatles

A must see for every Beatles enthusiast pop

TUE 5 MAR FRI 16 FEB

The Classic Rock Show The ultimate live juke box!

Selda Bağcan

Legendary Turkish protest singer world

pop

FRI 8 MAR FRI 16 FEB

The Classic Rock Show The ultimate live juke box!

Lizz Wright

Warm soul, jazz, and gospel jazz

pop

THU 14 MAR FRI 16 FEB

Roger Eno

Sound & Silence piano concert

K’s Choice

Time is a Parasite pop

neoclassical

SAT 23 MAR SUN 18 FEB

Dominic Seldis

Amsterdam Sinfonietta & Janine Jansen

classical

classical

SAT 24 FEB

SUN 31 MAR

Van Gogh in Me

Venice

classical

pop

Favourites

by the Netherlands Chamber Choir

Bach’s violin concertos

Americana-Pop quartet from the USA

47

Culture and leisure recommended for you 6x Tips from RegioRadar in February and March 2024 RegioRadar Eindhoven offers you six hand-picked must do’s in the region for spring 2023. What will be your next destination?

Music

SAT 3 February Stephany Struijk De Ster Lage Mierde

Stephanie Struijk, formerly known as ‘Stevie Ann,’ shares personal stories in Dutch-language songs.

Kids

SAT 10 FEBRUARI Arts & Crafts De Weeffabriek Geldrop

Every second Wednesday of the month there is a crafting afternoon at De Weeffabriek.

Please register online.

Festival

FRI 9 FEBRUARY - TUE 13 FEBRUARY Carnival Eindhoven Region

Alaaf! Join the Groot Gemertse parade, the Denneluchtjes Come-back-Bladel, experience the festivities in Someren-Heide with Carnaval XXL!, or attend the carnival concert by Philzuid in Lampegat.

Music

FRI 23 FEBRUARY Spinvis De Kattendans Bergeijk

“...And when the night’s dew descended upon the lands, mist creatures emerged in the dreams of humans...” Dutch singer-songwriter Spinvis and Saartje Van Camp bring the mythological Mist Creatures to life in the contemporary world.

Expo

until SUN 24 MARCH Resilient Rebels Kunsthal Helmond

This expo demonstrates that resistance takes many forms. From contemplative to activist, and from small and personal to grand and symbolic.

Theatre Concert

FRI 29 MARCH Henri de Vries & Gijsbert Diteweg Bergeijk

Intimate theatre concert of Neil Young’s love life with lots of songs and anecdotes in the De Kattendans.

RegioRadar Eindhoven is offered to you by Uit in Eindhoven Regio: a network organisation that creates connections between the 21 regional municipalities and cultural organisations. We are stimulating culture, tourism and facilities based on structural collaboration, in the interest of the nearly 850.000 residents and visitors. www.regioradareindhoven.nl