“As an architectural historian, I wrote about the development of the city. When I moved from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, I noticed that people live alongside each other and by no means everyone has the same opportunities to make it in life. Instead of writing about, I wanted to actively help build the city. Together with four other women we start Singeldingen, a summer place where neighbors easily meet and where we create a cultural program with the neighborhood. I discover the power of connecting people. Making the city myself proves contagious and our dreams grow bigger: a winter spot becomes Het Wijkpaleis. By connecting people, I hope to create new developments and opportunities in Rotterdam-West.”