Peggy from The Surinamese School

Peggy is director of the Suriname School Foundation, mother of four daughters, all in their twenties and fully engaged in their studies. Living in Vinkeveen, her passion lies in working with children and young people. She believes that learning only acquires real value when knowledge is linked to art and creativity - and it is precisely this enthusiasm that she conveys to the children she works with.

Under her leadership, the foundation will organize weekly workshops for children ages 8 and up as well as for adults. In this way she wants to share the multifaceted Surinamese culture with the wider community. The lessons will include music, dance, stories, fashion and the rich Surinamese cuisine. Topics such as the history of slavery and the traditions of, for example, the Marron community are also addressed.

The workshops are open to everyone - not just children or adults with a Surinamese background, but rather anyone curious about Suriname and its heritage.

'The Zaans Cultuurhuis gives us a very nice shelter so we can carry out our wishes. And with their plans to also expand the kitchen there so that cooking classes can be given, it will soon be very complete. We are happy with that because Surinamese cuisine is versatile and also very tasty.'

So thanks to the cooperation with the Zaan Culture House, the foundation can further expand its ambitions, including cooking classes and creative programs for young people.

As director of The Surinamese School Foundation, Peggy is responsible for the program, the organization of guest teachers and contact with parents. She also handles social media and takes care of receiving visitors.

Peggy especially emphasizes the importance of youth. For small children there are playgrounds, for adults places of entertainment, but young people often do not have a place of their own. With the workshops and activities she wants to provide that space: an inspiring place full of music, dance, creativity and encounters.