A Syrian refugee tells a story
[Je bent van harte welkom]
I always hear these words: And I truly feel them every day here I am grateful to be here and grateful to everyone who always supports me I hope I can always remain part of this place this country that now feels home
And I say
ik bedankt voor iedereen 🫶🏻🇳🇱🫶🏻
Ammar Dale bsa
De Snelle 5 kilometer 2025 Loopgroep Zeeland
Wat een gezellige avond was samen met lopen groep Zeeland vandaag bedankt voor deze geweldige groep Hartelijk dank voor deze geweldige deelname
🙏🏻✨
Ammar Dale bsal
BUURTFEEST at Pennywafelhuis Middelburg
Yesterday the Neighborhood party ()#BUURTFEEST took place in the garden of Pennywafelhuis, and it was a truly wonderful and successful day. The purpose of this event was to strengthen the bonds between neighbors and to get to know each other’s cultures through food music and dance and it was achieved perfectly
We shared dishes from more than ten different cultures, enjoyed live music and dancing and took part in fun activities such as mural painting face painting and portrait photography The atmosphere was filled with joy connection and togetherness
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who believed in us and joined the celebration You made this day unforgettable Together we proved that diversity unites us and makes life more beautiful 💛✨
Thanks for Anda van riet Marlou Pluijmaekers
Ammar dale bsal
Yesterday we had a wonderful reunion with the ()#Crossings project team at the historic Grote Kerk Veere in Veere
We enjoyed a warm lunch together, explored the church learned about its rich history and even climbed the tower to admire the breathtaking view over Walcheren
It was a truly inspiring day full of connection and beautiful moments
Ammar dale bsal
Many thanks to
After a long holiday break, our beloved Pennywafelhuis Middelburg is open again to welcome visitors. Today, I was so happy to be the one adding a special flavor to the day by serving two delicious dishes from my own culture Chicken Fatteh and a refreshing Indian Salad
The guests were delighted with the food, and their warm reactions filled the place with joy. I felt proud that my dishes brought smiles and added a fresh cultural touch to the atmosphere.
We are happy to announce that ()#Pennywafelhuis is now open every ()#Tuesday and ()#Thursday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Come and join us for art, food, and cultures and let’s create beautiful memories together
You are always welcome 💛
Ammar dale bsal
Fotos Anda van riet
De buurt camping #middelburg 2025
Today, I’m writing about a wonderful event in my city, Middelburg
I was invited to volunteer and join the organizing team for this special occasion my very first time experiencing such an event here
De Buurtcamping Middelburg 2025 takes place once a year, over Friday and Saturday, and offers a variety of activities including camping, barbecues, live music sports and special programs for children
The atmosphere was truly amazing, bringing together neighbors and their children to enjoy the beauty of this season
For me, as a refugee here, it was a memorable opportunity to connect more deeply with the Dutch community and learn about their culture and traditions
I genuinely felt like I was among family, and I will never forget this wonderful experience.
A heartfelt thank you to all the organizers and volunteers who made it possible
thanks for @eurydice Guinnevere for the invite
🙏🏻❤Ammar dale bsal
www.3mrito.com
Gemeente Middelburg
Today was a very special day for me! 🎥
As part of a documentary film project about Pennywafelhuis Middelburg it was amazing to have a part of my life here in Camp #studioA58 documented where I live and build my projects.
We filmed in different locations around the camp, including my farming project in the garden, which I see as a place of beauty and life in the middle of challenging circumstances. 🌱
I’m truly excited to watch the film soon, and I would like to express my deep gratitude to the wonderful team Lisa Grooters and Sebastiaan Hoekman and @Flore_vs the photographers, the director, everyone at Pennywafelhuis Middelburg Middelburg and the Municipality of Middelburg Gemeente Middelburg for their support and belief in the story
Ammar Dale bsal
www.3mrito.com
Today at Pride Amsterdam, I experienced moments filled with love and surrounded by peace.
It was an incredibly joyful experience for me. I saw love, I saw acceptance, and I saw happiness shining in everyone’s eyes. No one cared about someone’s sexual orientation, skin color, or background. Everyone was simply happy dancing, drinking, celebrating, and creating love together.
It doesn’t matter who you are; what matters is being a human who respects the feelings of others. In my country, it would have been almost impossible to share something like this openly, but here I feel happy and free to express what I love and to experience what I choose.
This was a wonderful step for me, as it was my first time attending such a celebration, and I would be honored to join again. This is a community that everyone should embrace, because it is truly beautiful and filled with kindness.
Make love, not war.
Create celebrations, not weapons.
That is the message I want to share with the world.
Happy Pride 🏳🌈🌈
Love is love — pure, beautiful, and free.
Ammar Dale Bsal
www.3mrito.com
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to join Loopgroep Zeeland Loopgroep Zeeland for a run in the beautiful Vlissingen area through the trees and along the sea. It was a truly special and refreshing experience that combined nature, movement, and community
I’m grateful to the team for the warm welcome and positive energy they truly live the spirit of sport, and so do I.
A heartfelt thank you to Willy for the kind invitation
As a refugee who loves life and believes in hope, moments like these mean a lot to me
Ammar dale bsal
www.3mrito.com
Today I participated in (De Kraamkamer)an open stage for writers, poets musicians, and artists held at Een Bunder Kunst in Arendskerke. I was invited by the organizers De Baaierd to take part in this event and I gladly accepted the invitation During my moment on stage, I introduced myself spoke briefly about my journey as a refugee, my passion for writing and why I write. The atmosphere was inspiring, the weather was beautiful, and the energy was full of creativity and warmth I met wonderful people artists, poets and new friends
and received encouraging feedback that reminded me why I write and why I share. Truly grateful for this experience
Thanks for photos
Rezan Habash
Thanks for the invitation
Joyce Pijnenburg
Ammar dale bsal
www.3mrito.com
Today was one of the special days I spend volunteering at the Etty Hillesum Huis in #Middelburg
Etty was like a bandage on the wound for people in those difficult days
And I hope we too can be a bandage for our friends those around us and our families
We had the pleasure of welcoming around 50 students from Nehalennia School aged between 12 and 15 years old
They came to hear Etty’s story, visit the place where she was born and watch the film that tells her life and shares her powerful words that still speak to us today
The house was filled with curiosity emotion and quiet reflection
During the visit I had the chance to introduce myself share a part of my journey how I started writing and what Etty means to me personally
It was a beautiful day full of energy from the students and their teachers
Ammar Dale Bsal
www.3mrito.com
ettyhillesumhuis.nl
the Crossings Performance
This was my first time joining a dance performance a completely new experience, filled with emotions, laughter and unforgettable moments
The project brought together refugees from asylum centers and Dutch @mbodanszuidwest dance students, under the guidance of @vrolijkheidmiddelburg in collaboration with ndtdance (NDT) in grotekerkveere modejonge
Over just four days, we learned, connected, and stood together on stage all with the support of our wonderful instructors who made the experience even more special.
I wrote a full article about this powerful journey, with all the emotions and joyful moments. You can read it now on my personal website:
Article No. 54
(www.3mrito.com)
Ammar dale bsal
With love and gratitude
love to the team, linda, dalton, kevin, lynn,febe,janne,isa,jae,maher,sanne,ilana,elina,mirte,gaytri,jasmijn,ahmad,mo,mohamad,nelson,hasan,hosaen,
Thanks to all those I didn’t mention by name, you are in my
Since the moment I arrived here, I chose not to be just a refugee waiting for the unknown, but someone who contributes even in small ways to making life better for others
Today, I received a Certificate of Self-Reliance from Centraal Orgaan opvang asielzoekers (COA) in recognition of my volunteer work at Camp A58 in Middelburg.
I’ve been actively involved in various tasks such as
🔧 Repairing bicycles
🌱 Gardening and outdoor work
🧹 Cleaning shared areas
📦 Supporting the warehouse
🗣 Translating and assisting fellow residents
These may seem like small contributions, but they make a real difference in our daily lives.
I truly believe that when we work together with our hearts before our hands we can build a better place for all of us.
Let’s be one hand💪🌍
Ammar dale bsal
Today I was part of Clouds, Winds and Voices at the Zeeuws Archief in Middelburg the final presentation of a series of eight artistic workshops led by artist @MariaKlaassen Andrianova, as part of Oemoemenoe #7 organized by Vleeshal in collaboration with Pennywafelhuis Middelburg and Toonbeeld
The performance combined poetry, choral singing, and spoken word centered around a symbolic cloud that carries stories of borders war, the sea, loss and hope. A beautifully designed booklet was also presented documenting the project and the lullabies shared by participants from diverse cultural backgrounds
Thanks to all participants in this event
🌬💙
Ammar dale bsal
www.3mrito.com
#CloudsWindsVoices #Oemoemenoe #Vleeshal #Middelburg #SpokenWord #RefugeeVoices #ArtAndCommunity #Pennywafelhuis #Zeeland #CulturalConnection
Today I attend the Zilveren Camera 2024. photo
exhibition at Oostkerk in Middelburg Among all the
powerful images I was deeply moved by a photo from the series Gewortelde kinderen Rooted Children by photographer Mona Van Den Berg This photo touched my heart because it reflects a reality I have lived through as a refugee and one I’ve seen in the faces of children still living in uncertainty and fear I sincerely hope these children will receive residence permits and be able to build a safe and stable future here in the Netherlands, where they truly belong with their friends their schools and their dreams
Thank you to De Vrolijkheid for this meaningful invitation and to all the photographers who use their lens to shed light on stories that must be seen and heard. You give voice to those who are often left in silence
Ammar dale bsal
www.3mrito.com
#ZilverenCamera2024 #DeVrolijkheid #RootedChildren #RefugeeStories #Middelburg
It has now been one year since I started visiting Pennywafelhuis in Middelburg a place that has become one of the most meaningful parts of my life in the Netherlands As a refugee adjusting to a new country is not easy but every Tuesday and Thursday I find myself in a space where I feel safe welcomed, and connected. At Pennywafelhuis, we share meals, do creative and social activities practice the Dutch language, and most importantly we build real human connections I have met amazing people, learned a lot about Dutch culture and found a strong sense of belonging. For me this place feels like family. Even far from home, I have found a space where I truly feel at home Thank you to everyone who makes Pennywafelhuis such a special part of our community
#Pennywafelhuis #Middelburg #RefugeeExperience #Belonging #Community #DutchCulture #Integration #OneYear
Pennywafelhuis Middelburg
Meedoen in Middelburg
Gemeente Middelburg
Today, I was invited with other volunteers to AZC Middelburg where we were given certificates in appreciation of our volunteer work
Thank you for this kind recognition
As a refugee volunteering gives us a sense of purpose and belonging. It’s also a way to connect with the community and learn the culture
A special thanks to Vizita for their continuous support
#VolunteerWork #Refugees #Meedoen #AZCMiddelburg #Vizita #middelburg
Ammar dale Bsal
Today May 5th, the Netherlands celebrates Liberation Day, marking the end of the Nazi occupation in 1945. I spent this day at the Etty Hillesum House in Middelburg, attending an inspiring symposium about freedom not only as an external right, but as an inner journey we carry through the hardest of times. As a refugee stories like Etty’s remind me that light can rise even from the heart of darkness. On this day, I reflect on what it means to be free from within and I feel deeply grateful to this land that gave me a new chance. Sending my love and respect to the Dutch people and to my friends here may you always live in freedom and peace
Ammar dale bsal
www.3mrito.com
#middelburg #Bevrijdingsdag #LiberationDay #EttyHillesum #InnerFreedom #Middelburg #RefugeeVoices #Netherlands #FreedomAndPeace
This evening I attended an unforgettable theater performance by Julika Marijn at Schouwburg Middelburg. She performed the role of Etty Hillesum and honestly for a few moments it felt as if Etty herself was standing in front of me alive through Julika’s voice expression and powerful presence. As a volunteer at the Etty Hillesum Huis, this experience touched me deeply. After the performance I had the chance to meet her and introduce myself my work and a small part of my story She welcomed me warmly and shared words of support and encouragement that truly moved me In a beautiful and human moment she even handed me the bouquet of flowers she had received after the show That gesture meant more than words can express I left the theater feeling inspired grateful and reminded of the power of art when it connects with truth 💕💐
#EttyHillesum #JulikaMarijn #middelburg #Inspiration #SchouwburgMiddelburg #EttyHillesumHuis
I attended a magical music event at Spot Middelburg tonight where the melodies ranged from Arabic foreign and Dutch music along with poetry that added a unique artistic touch The atmosphere was unforgettable and the blend of cultures and musical styles made it an exceptional experience.
The highlight of the night was the honoring of Jaap van Visvliet who was appointed Lid in de Orde van Oranje Nassau for his dedication to filming musical events and preserving them for future generations.
#Middelburg #SpotMiddelburg
Today, Sunday I attended a community lunch held at Koorkerk Church in the city of Middelburg, under the theme We eat together We talk together
we gathered around one table strangers at first, but soon connected by food and warm conversation.
What made this day even more beautiful was the incredible cultural and human diversity present. People from many different nationalities came together in one place: from Syria, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the Netherlands, Kurdistan, and more.
It felt like one big family, despite our different languages and backgrounds. Love, respect, and understanding were the common language we all spoke.
This was my third time joining such a heartwarming gathering. It’s truly amazing to come together, get to know each other, and share our experiences.
I am deeply thankful to the church volunteers and local residents for their warm welcome for speaking Dutch with us, and for their ongoing efforts to help and support us as newcomers and refugees in this city
The food was delicious, the atmosphere was full of kindness, and the sun was shining a truly beautiful day.
Thank you for these unforgettable human moments
I invite everyone living in Middelburg or nearby to take part in these upcoming gatherings. It’s a great opportunity for connection, integration, and sharing love.
And every time I attend such a meeting, I feel like I’m with my family
Special thanks to the beautiful city of Middelburg and to Koorkerk Church for opening their hearts and doors to us. Your kindness means more than words can express
And the big thanks and follow respect for the volunteer team in this church❤😍
Ammar dale bsal
Today, I attended my first training session with artists Michiel Paalvast and Liesbeth Labeur, along with some students, for the Talking to Banksy event! It was an inspiring and creative meeting, and I’m really excited for what’s coming next
#Art #StreetArt #Graffiti #Creativity #Inspiration #TalkingToBanksy #PublicArt #Artists #Culture #Community #Learning
#Expression
Michiel Paalvast
Liesbeth Labeur
Ammar dale bsal
Yesterday, I took a tourist tour in my city, Middelburg a historic and beautiful place I’ve called home for a year. I thought I knew the city well, but the tour revealed surprising details I had never heard before, like how houses were once identified by names instead of numbers! Two hours of fascinating information and history, under the rain, yet filled with wonder and beauty. Middelburg… there’s always something new to discover
Thank you (STR) for the invitation
Ammar dale bsal
#Middelburg #DiscoverMiddelburg #HistoricCities #TravelExperience #Netherlands #ExploreTheCity #History
Today, we celebrated the remembrance of Etty Hillesum’s birthday at the koor church, in Middelburg together with all the volunteers and those who work at her house or read her book and stories.
The atmosphere was truly amazing, and the music was absolutely mesmerizing. The woman who played the role of Etty and the musical team were simply brilliant. The performance was in Dutch, and it was a bit difficult for me to fully understand the words, but through the body language, the eyes, and the music, I could feel what Etty experienced and went through
It was truly a wonderful day. A big thank you to the Etty Hillesum team and all the volunteers for their continuous support in keeping her story alive….✨
Ammar dale bsal
Today, I attended the Vluchtelingen op Walcheren meeting at the historic Koorkerk in Zeeland. This gathering brought together various organizations to introduce the incredible services they provide to newcomers, refugees, and local residents in our community.
Each organization took the time to explain their mission and the specific ways they contribute to improving life in Zeeland. From offering temporary housing and legal support to organizing language lessons and cultural activities, their efforts are vital for helping people integrate and adapt to life here.
This was my first time attending such an event, and it left a deep impression on me. It was inspiring to see the dedication and care these organizations bring to their work. Meetings like this not only showcase their efforts but also foster a sense of unity and hope for a better future
Having organizations like these in our region makes a significant difference. They make life easier for those who are new to Zeeland, guiding them through the challenges of integration and helping them feel at home in a new environment. Hosting this meeting in the warm and welcoming Koorkerk made the experience even more special
I want to express my gratitude to all the organizers and participants of the Vluchtelingen op Walcheren meeting. Such initiatives are crucial for building a supportive and inclusive community in Zeeland, and I look forward to seeing more events like this in the future thank you Middelburg ✨🫶🏻
Ammar dale bsal
Organizations that were present
1 - Raad van Kerken & De Thuisgevers
2- Gemeente Middelburg
3-COA
4 - Vluchtelingenwerk
5- Vizita
6 - Gave
7 - Taalhuis
8 - Takecarebnb
9 - De Vrolijkheid
10 - Pennywafelhuis
#middelburg
Gemeente Middelburg
Today, we officially opened the art corner at Pennywafelhuis! This special wall became a canvas for everyone volunteers and visitors alike to express their emotions, share memories from their countries, and celebrate their cultural roots. Each drawing on this wall tells a story of home, of hope, of what they love.
This place is more than just a building; it’s a safe and welcoming space where diversity thrives. A space free from prejudice, where people from all backgrounds and nationalities come together as one community.
Thank you to everyone who made this event unforgettable. Let’s continue creating and connecting!
#Kunst #Cultuur #Gemeenschap #Middelburg #Diversiteit #Pennywafelhuis
Ammar dale bsal
A moment from my volunteering day at Etty Hillesum Huis, where we introduced visitors from different backgrounds and cultures to the inspiring story of Etty Hillesum, which reflects hope and resilience. With cups of tea, coffee, and cake, the atmosphere was filled with meaningful conversations about the meaning of freedom. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a volunteer here and learn about Etty Hillesum’s story. Proud to be part of this place that brings people together with values of humanity and understanding
#middelburg #Etty_Hillesum #Vizzita #3mrito Ammar dale bsal
thanks for Vizzita for inviting 🫶🏻
Read the full article on my personal website.
www.3mrito.com
