From Marijk Beekman-Kortekaas, President, HAE the Netherlands

Members’ Day: Connection, Laughter & A Fresh New Vibe
On 15 June 2025, something new sparked within our association: the very first Members’ Day, and what a fantastic day it turned out to be! We traded the usual information-packed agenda for a fresh format; one that put personal connection front and center.

We met at Mooie Boules in Delft, a cozy venue that helped set a relaxed tone. In previous gatherings, we noticed how much people appreciated simply having time to talk, yet the busy program often left little room for that. So this time, we dialed things down and opened things up, and it truly made all the difference.

We started the day with a short but meaningful general meeting. Updates were shared and insights exchanged. After that, we enjoyed an extended lunch where conversations flowed effortlessly. What made it extra special was the vibrant mix of attendees: young, older, and everything in between. It really reflected our diverse and engaged community.

Then came the fun: pétanque, Jenga, Dutch shuffleboard, and plenty of games that sparked laughter and a pinch of playful rivalry. People warmed up quickly and soon every turn, toss, and win was met with cheer and conversation. The energy was light and lively; exactly what we had hoped for.

It was our first time trying out this format, and it worked surprisingly well. We left with a smile and already some excitement about the next edition.

Save the Date: November 22 – Information Day in Breukelen
We’re already looking forward to it: on Friday, November 22, 2025, we’re hosting our Dutch annual Information Day, once again at the familiar Hotel Van der Valk in Breukelen.

The full program is still taking shape, but we can already share an exciting new feature: this year marks the first-ever youngsters program. With it, we’re creating a space where younger participants can connect, feel seen, and join in their own way.

The registration link will go live soon via our website. As soon as the full agenda is ready, we’ll keep you updated.

We hope to see you there. Will you be joining us on November 22?

Empowering Young Voices: Noa Joins HAEi LEAP 2025
This year, we’re proud to celebrate a special milestone: Noa’s participation in the HAEi LEAP program.

Noa joined this year’s cohort with enthusiasm and curiosity, representing our community with warmth and dedication. From workshops on storytelling and leadership to connecting with peers from around the world, Noa embraced every challenge and opportunity. We’re especially excited to see how her project will unfold in the coming months. This project is a reflection of her creativity and commitment to making a difference.

Programs like HAEi LEAP show how powerful youth involvement can be. They don’t just build skills; they build bridges, confidence, and a stronger future for the HAE community.

Well done, Noa; we’re cheering you on every step of the way!