Closing out Black Activation Month, join us for Cypher: The Great Build, a community discussion about collaboration. 

This session brings together leaders of organizations serving the Black diaspora to engage in a focused conversation about the urgent need for consistent collaboration and solidarity within our community.

In the spirit of cyphers, where individuals hold space for exchange and mutual growth, this gathering encourages an open and inclusive dialogue. Whether you wish to share your thoughts or simply listen, all are welcome to be in the room.

Our goal is simple: to connect, reflect on the challenges, and co-create actionable solutions for a stronger, unified effort to propel us forward.

Special guests: 

Bamba Al Mansour: Black Activation Month

Beylula Yosef: Afrispectives 

Kemo Camara: Omek

Rosa Selehe: JAT Technologies

This talk will be moderated by Sandra Roberts of Omek.

Rosa Sahele, co-founder of JAT-Technologies B.V., will be showcasing their Super App at the event. JAT-Technologies B.V., an Amsterdam-based tech startup, has specifically designed this app to cater to the Black diaspora community, supporting consumers, Black-owned businesses, and events.

The Super App is a comprehensive platform offering services such as taxi booking, food delivery, grocery shopping, and event access, all tailored to the needs of the Black community. It also features a cloud-based POS system for B2B clients, empowering Black-owned businesses by streamlining their operations and enhancing their efficiency.

Meet Malachi Korrie, widely known as Mr. Who, a dynamic creative force in the visual arts scene. As a model and creative director, he blends his unique vision to challenge traditional beauty norms. One of his standout projects, "This is My Hair," celebrates hair as a powerful symbol of self-expression while redefining conventional beauty standards. Mr. Who’s innovative approach to visual storytelling allows him to create captivating narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, shaping his work with a fresh, impactful perspective both behind and in front of the camera.

We’re gonna have a conversation with Kelvin from Kees Opleidingen, as we explore why skilled trades like plumbing, carpentry, and tiling were more common among men and boys in the past. Kelvin will share his journey of training young men from the Black diaspora in essential trades, many of whom are dissatisfied with their experiences in the Netherlands, and encouraging them to bring these skills back to their motherland, where they can make a greater impact. We will also address the pressing issue of the absence of Black-owned construction companies within our communities and in the Netherlands.

Navigate the landscape of Amsterdam's history with Sister Benji, a solid advocate for Black culture and community. As an explorer in storytelling, she shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of Black individuals who helped shape this iconic city.

With her engaging tours and workshops, particularly the transformative Beurs van Berlage Tour, Sister Benji challenges perceptions and inspires a deeper overstanding of our ancestry.

Discover the untold stories, celebrate Black narratives, and become part of a spirited community reclaiming its voice with facts, truth, and evidence—asserting what rightfully and lawfully belongs to today’s Black descendants, demanding acknowledgment, equal rights, and justice.

THE SET is more than just a night out — it’s a movement that blends music, connection, and authenticity.

The Set creates an intimate party environment where personal circles merge, allowing guests to connect with one another while enjoying unique musical experiences. Each evening is infused with good energy as we invite DJs to bring their own friends, fostering a welcoming space where everyone can vibe, make new connections, and celebrate diversity in both music and people.

The DJs are the centre of attention. We invite up to two DJs each night to take the stage and express themselves freely, bringing their personal taste in music to the forefront. From R&B and Hip-Hop to Afrohouse, Garage, and more, each event offers a new musical journey, with some nights focusing on a single genre and others blending multiple sounds. The result is an unforgettable experience

where the DJs drive the vibe, and the crowd becomes part of the moment. Every event is captured on film. We record both visually and audibly, allowing the magic of the evening to live on beyond the night itself. Our recorded sets are shared on social media platforms, giving others the chance to enjoy the performances and discover new music. This not only celebrates the talent of the DJs but also expands our reach, inviting more people into the culture we’re building.

Our mission goes beyond just throwing a party—we’re creating a culture of openness, connection, and authenticity. With smaller, more connected crowds and an atmosphere built on togetherness, The Set offers a fresh, intimate way to party. It’s a space where everyone is welcome, new friendships and connections are formed, and the music—and the energy—are shared with the world.

Let’s talk music, community and connectivity.

DJ Game Ova, a Dj who chose to make radio and mixtapes a priority over club bookings since day one.

This Sunday we will be in conversation with this committed Dj and radio engineer whose show on GLXY Radio has been making waves for quite a while now. The Game Plan is a talk about the strategy behind the Dj booth. Pull up and catch these gems.

Experience the raw talent of Taz, a Rotterdam-based beatmaker and producer who embodies authenticity and originality in every track! From MC to producer to fitness consultant, Taz truly embodies A Pan African, HIP HOP health mind set.

Known for his innovative sampling techniques, Taz is known for having of the most consistent production regiments in the game which allows him to put out a high volume of work. That along with his unique ability to be super creative on his AKAI Mpc Live hardware has earned him respect and recognition from composers far and wide.

Pull up and build with one of the giants amongst us!

Interlude String Quartet is a young string ensemble consisting of Yoram Barsati, Kes Bosch, Giovanni Emanuel and Sophie Methorst. Formed in 2023 in the colourful neighbourhood Amsterdam Zuidoost, the group blends traditional classical elements with modern influences, creating a unique sound that resonates with diverse audiences.

Interlude explores a repertoire that spans from timeless masterpieces to contemporary compositions. Their performances, characterized by emotional depth and technical precision, invite listeners to experience classical music in a refreshing light.

Don’t miss interlude Sunday October 20th.

Join us for an unforgettable celebration of Rouhi's 10th anniversary!

Experience an exclusive conversation with owner and stylist to the stars Coco The Don, who transformed her creativity and resilience into a thriving business, taking charge of her own destiny.

Fulljoy a special preview of Rouhi's latest collection and admire Coco’s stunning designs that blend timeless elegance with modern flair. This event is more than just a celebration; it’s a vivid showcase of self-expression and entrepreneurship.

Be part of this epic night where fashion meets artistry and ambition knows no bounds!

Join us for an exclusive event with Junior Celiné, the rising TikTok influencer who’s redefining fashion and self-expression. This is your chance to hear his story firsthand—how he turned his passion for bold, cutting-edge street fashion into a thriving career on TikTok.

Discover how Junior Celiné has grown his influence, his ambitions for the future, and how he manages the business side of being a content creator. This event offers unique insights into his journey and the mindset behind building a brand in the digital age.

Ever felt like you're not "good" at yoga because you're not flexible, thin, strong, focused, rich, or … just not enough? Third Circles is creating a different kind of yoga space. A welcoming space where who you are is more than enough to begin (or continue on) a yoga journey. Led by an experienced Black female yoga teacher, we'll explore yoga philosophy, physical practice and meditation – and how to bring these practices into day-to-day life. If you are new to (or curious about) yoga, join this presentation and session. Please bring a yoga (or exercise) mat and wear comfy clothes.

About Mipe

With over a decade of practice and teaching experience, Mipe has taught yoga and meditation to a diversity of identities, body types and communities across three continents. She has dedicated herself to removing the different barriers to practicing yoga. Mipe’s aim is to help people connect with their inner teacher by exploring their unique personal relationship to the practice. Her sharing of the yoga practice is part of Third Circles, a movement to find and create social places for underrepresented peoples to be their complete selves.

Meet Joanne Horb, a self-made entrepreneur who has carved out a significant niche in the self-care market by dedicating service to women of color. Over the past decade, Joanne has built a thriving business that not only celebrates the beauty and diversity of her clients but also empowers them to prioritize their self-care.

Joanne shares both her milestone and learning moments in her presentation, making her story one of passionate entrepreneurship, perseverance, and purpose.

Step into the world of Rodney Maartens, the visionary hairstylist and entrepreneur behind Jooze, as he shares his story from humble garage barber to the proud owner of a thriving unisex hair salon in the heart of Amsterdam's vibrant De Pijp district.

At Jooze, he has transformed his dream into reality, establishing a space that encourages creativity and self-expression. His salon is more than just a place for haircuts; it’s a hub where people come together to share experiences, celebrate their unique identities, and feel empowered.

Chef Djocy Santos, a powerhouse of a woman who cooks, sings and conducts interviews with the guests she invites on her show, Djocy Meets The World. Spend an afternoon with this contagious Cape Verdian woman as she tells you all the juicy bits about her kitchen experiences, her love for food, family and her Island of origin, Sao Vicente.

Borderless Light.

Reiko is a highly rated Advanced Reiki Master Practitioner, Prana Healer, and Energy Coach. Born in San Francisco and guided by a vision that transcends borders, Reiko has embarked on a transformative journey through California, Las Vegas, Texas, and Mexico, now landing in the heart of Amsterdam. 

This is a cool opportunity to meet Reiko in person, hear her story, and discover how she brings radiant living to life across every border.

Sea moss, health, and hustle converge in the inspiring story of Surjeane, an innovative entrepreneur and nutritionist who is redefining the wellness landscape with her brand, 'Mighty Healthy.' With a passion for holistic health, Surjeane has dedicated herself to making nutritious living accessible and straightforward, harnessing the powerful benefits of sea moss to promote overall well-being.

Check in with Surjeane as she shares her empowering journey—how she turned her passion for health into a business, the challenges she faced along the way, and the importance of community in her mission.

Link up with Sergio Marica as he shares his inspiring story of overcoming adversity, building a new life for his family, and creating a community centered around health and fitness. His journey, rooted in the principles of Rastafari, is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of resilience, passion, perseverance, and dedication in pursuing one’s dreams.

Making New York business on the wings of fried chicken in Amsterdam, Noah Tucker is a dynamic culinary entrepreneur whose journey is as flavorful as the dishes he creates. A native New Yorker, Noah brings a unique blend of urban flair and culinary expertise to the Amsterdam food scene. With experience honed in Michelin-starred kitchens, he has mastered the art of cooking while infusing his creations with the bold, lively energy of his hometown.

Noah’s culinary story is one of innovation and passion, as he seamlessly transitions from high-end dining to groundbreaking pop-up experiences that celebrate comfort food with a twist. His fried chicken is not just a dish; it's a cultural experience that pays homage to the streets of New York while embracing the local tastes of Amsterdam.

Get ready to savor the vibrant journey of Nicolas Aquaa, the culinary mastermind behind The Jollof Club, as he shares his deep passion for West African cuisine and his dream of introducing fine African dining to the heart of Amsterdam.

Despite his impressive accomplishments in the culinary world, Nicolas has always remained true to his roots, drawing inspiration from the exquisite flavors and traditions of West African kitchens.

Join Nicolas as he shares his culinary story, the challenges he has faced, and the inspiration behind his vision for fine African dining in Amsterdam.

Maru Asmellash is a cultural visionary and co-founder of The New Originals (TNO), a groundbreaking brand that has redefined the fashion landscape by seamlessly blending creativity with community empowerment.

Under Maru’s leadership, The New Originals has grown from a local Amsterdam-based concept into a globally recognized brand, known for pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.

Discover how he and his team have built a brand that not only breaks fashion norms but also cultivates a powerful sense of community, sparking a movement that resonates with people around the world.

Meet the future of creativity and innovation.

From a young age Shaquille embarked on a remarkable journey into the world of design and innovation. Shaquille’s path was far from traditional as he took control of his destiny by pursuing a journey of self-education, continuously honing his skills and knowledge.

Join Shaquille on this incredible journey as he engineers dreams into reality, one innovative idea at a time. Together, we'll shape a brighter and more imaginative future as we welcome Shaquille Veldboom for his presentation during Black Activation Month, 2024.

Kala Cité, the creative world of multidisciplinary artist Thaniel Owusu Agyemang, reflects his deep connection to his roots and the people who have inspired him throughout his journey. Raised in an environment that nurtured his creativity, Thaniel grew up surrounded by individuals who encouraged him to explore his artistic talents. This upbringing led him to express himself through photography, film, and music, forming the foundation of his ever-evolving artistic vision.

Central to his work is the Akan proverb “Sankofa,” which means to return to the past and bring forward that which is useful. Through his platform, Sankofa Archives, Thaniel channels this philosophy into his creative practice, using it as a lens to study and research cultural identity. The platform serves as a space where he archives artistic expressions, drawing on historical and contemporary influences to create a bridge between past and present.

Kala Cité, Thaniel’s artistic universe, reflects these ideas. His work captures stories of friendship, family, and love, offering a window into the everyday beauty of life and the importance of human connection. His photography, infused with a sense of history and heritage, has been showcased in exhibitions in Amsterdam and London, connecting audiences to their roots while celebrating the significance of relationships and community.

As Kala Cité continues to evolve, Thaniel remains dedicated to expanding his creative vision, using his platform to preserve and share stories that remind people of the power of understanding their past in shaping their future.

Meet George Adegite, the award-winning illustrator and creative force behind SiMSALABiMS, a comic series that has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers across the Netherlands. George’s art is more than just illustration—it’s a vivid tapestry of storytelling that brings the rich culture and untold narratives of the Bijlmer to life. With each comic strip, George weaves together humor, history, and everyday experiences, creating relatable characters and plots that resonate deeply with his audience.

What started as a passion project and side-hustle quickly transformed into a national sensation, propelling George into the spotlight. His unique ability to turn the vibrant pulse of the Bijlmer into visually stunning, thought-provoking comics has earned him not only a loyal following but also critical acclaim within the art and comic world.

Curious about how George made the leap from side-hustler to celebrated artist? Join us for an intimate conversation where he shares his journey.

Latoya Molly, the visionary owner of Geminis Tooth Gems, is redefining the intersection of culture, style, and oral aesthetics. As a trailblazer in the world of teeth art, Latoya's journey blends creativity with entrepreneurship, transforming the concept of tooth adornment into a celebration of heritage and personal expression. Her work is a testament to how tradition and trend can harmonize to create something truly unique.

At the heart of her brand lies the world’s first Surinamese gold tooth gem, a symbol of pride and craftsmanship that honors her cultural roots while tapping into the modern desire for aesthetic innovation. From intricate grills to delicate tooth gems, Latoya brings an artistic approach to dental adornment, offering clients a chance to express their individuality with a dazzling, custom touch.

In this exciting session, Latoya explores the world of teeth, culture, and hustle—unveiling the stories behind her designs.

Safi believes film was never meant to be mediocre, nor to be an easy copy-paste. It should document the exceptional, introduce a new perspective – and, who knows, make a change along the way. Therefore, he sees himself as a vehicle that helps to get stories out there that add something positive to the world. With a background in Earth Sciences and led by his beliefs, he doesn’t work from aesthetic, medium or form. The message is leading – all the rest should serve that story.

23 year old Sareime Moesha was raised in Amsterdam South-East where she developed an interest for photography while in middle school as a school project. Gradually Sareime fell deeply in love with the process of freezing moments in time that the hobby started becoming more more seriously. With a passion for fashion and an eye for composition, detail and aesthetic, this young talent has been putting in work in order to busy grow her business so she can continue to do what she loves to do professionally.

Check out this voice of the future and hear her dreams and aspirations.

TBA