RCD Magazine #6 Mei 2022

RCD

#6

ROTTERDAM-CENTRALDISTRICT.NL

MAY 2022

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M A G A Z I N E

“THRIVING NIGHTLIFE IS MASSIVELY IMPORTANT AS A MAGNET FOR THE CITY” Thys Boer – founder of N8W8 Rotterdam

MOONBACK:

VESTOR:

MAMA TAXI:

A social and human approach to the platform economy

A next generation real estate company

Empowering women through education and job-creation

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Jullie kantoor naar Rotterdam Centraal?

L E AS I N G @G H G . N L

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M A G A Z I N E

PREFACE

DO YOU MAKE THE DIFFERENCE FOR AN AMBITIOUS PUPIL? Since 1999 we have been supporting first generation prospective students with our cross cultural mentoring programs, a substantive program for talent development, social involvement and study choice, and a personal mentoring trajectory. As a mentor you support a talented and ambitious 4havo/5vwo student in the transition phase to student for 13 months.

Central to this trajectory are increasing self-confidence, broadening the world view and helping you find the right study. At Giving Back, we ensure that you as a mentor also receive the right tools to guide the student. You invest about 4 hours per month. Our mentoring program is in Dutch.

A DISTRICT BURSTING WITH TALENT AND AMBITION DESERVES A VIBRANT NIGHTLIFE! The Rotterdam Central District boasts a truly extraordinary concentration of talent. Young professionals, creative entrepreneurs, artists, dancers, researchers – it is seriously impressive! And it is one of this district’s superpowers that these talents are interlinked in all kinds of ways: sharing buildings, tapping each other’s services and teaming up in long-term collaborations. Many of these individuals are also just starting out and bursting with ambition.

Featured on this issue’s cover is Thys Boer, founder of N8W8 Rotterdam, a foundation working to revitalize

xt i s su e The ne u l ed i s sc h ed 12th of for the be r S e pt e m

urban nightlife. Their efforts are crucial right now, with the pandemic and other factors having dealt the city’s culture sector some harsh blows. Boer’s own research shows that a vibrant urban nightlife has a magnetic effect think about it. After all, how many young people would like to live in a place where there’s nothing to do after office hours? This is so vital in our younger years, and in shaping who we are and become.

In this issue we spotlight many more talented individuals.

Among them are Dylan Hirsch of Lox Solutions, a company that recently burst onto the scene and whose employees are all internationals. And Brian van der Sluijs and Dax Ravestein, the young founders of the property agency spot empire by opening up Tuesday, a new and innovative meetingcentre, and Zizi Fernandes shares the inspiring Romy Lange

story behind her Mama Taxi. Plus, Annejet Remmelzwaal,

RCD Publishers

Recruitment & HR Advisor at Savills, talked to us about an issue many employers are grappling with these days: how

Rob Ittmann

to not only attract but also keep talent on board.

Rotterdam Central District Association

We hope you’ll enjoy reading this issue!

THANKS TO

Stichting Giving Back | Asterweg 17A 10 | 1043 HL Amsterdam | T: 020 623 4171 E: scholieren@givingback.nl

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on talented young people. Which is only logical, when you

Vestor. Boudewijn van der Sar is busy expanding his Work-

Interested?

Visit givingback.nl/doelgroep/mentoren or scan

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M A G A Z I N E

Nú 1 ma and grat is!

Altijd verzekerd van een voordelige parkeerplaats?

Ook in Rotterdam!

Mis het niet: nu één maand het ParkBee Zakelijk abonnement gratis uitproberen op locatie Wijnstraat 100 op loopafstand van de Markthal.

Scan de QR om zelf een vrijblijvende belafspraak te plannen.

INDEX

48

28

40

MOONBACK:

VESTOR:

MAMA TAXI:

A social and human approach to the platform economy

A next generation real estate company

Empowering women through education and job-creation

10 cove rst or y THRIVING NIGHTLIFE IS MASSIVELY IMPORTANT AS A MAGNET FOR THE CITY Thys Boer – founder of N8W8 Rotterdam

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What’s on?

34

Check the RCD Agenda 10

Thys Boer from N8W8 Rotterdam

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‘’Thriving nightlife is massively important as a magnet for the city’’ 14

RCD Up2Date

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RCD People

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Column by Eduard Voorn Ali and Vincent: Tackle that 38.9 per cent!

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wiredscore rating!

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Interview Roodkapje resurrected

37

Building connect Building connect congratulates Delftse Poort on

Lox A fast-growing tech start-up in a traditional market

Savills “Property starts with people”

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Interview With Zizi Fernandes, from Mama Taxi

Are taking the stage

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Workspot

Forward·Inc: supporting newcomers in building human, social

Tuesday making meetings fun again

Interview and financial capital

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Home Tours in Rotterdam Central District

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RCD Hotspots

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WTC Rotterdam

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Memoboard

“What matters most is that people feel welcome here”

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#RCD Online

Vestor

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Successtory

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44

The new real estate company with high potential 30

Talent & Education Special

With Niels Meijssen from Moonback 50

Introduction with Hans Van Oosterhout 32

Colliers ‘’We’re helping clients reinvent the office’’

Architecture Railway Post Office

Coffee Break

52

Members

With Ilse Overwater

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Join the Rotterdam Central District Community

55

RCD Members & Colophon

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M A G A Z I N E

AGENDA

GIRLS & BOYS Friday 9 September @ Theater Rotterdam

A passionate love story started by an unexpected meeting at the airport, but slowly crumbles and takes a disturbing turn.

Girls and Boys is a one-woman show that begins as a fairy tale and ends in a nightmare. The impressive solo performance can now be seen for the first

LATIN THURSDAYS

Every Thursday @ BIRD

time in the Netherlands and is performed by the multitalented Hadewych Minis.

BIRDBEATS: SILENT DISCO Saturday 28 May @ BIRD

The Silent Disco is back! Sing Every Thursday, for as long

along and boogie to your

as the sun shines, the BIRD

favourite beats in a disco of

Garden transforms into a Latin

strobing headphones, from

hotspot. Come to this free

8pm in the BIRD Garden. From

dance party, grab a bite, a drink

hip hop to soul classics, the

and a dance partner, and get

grooves are up to you: just tune

ready to get down with DJ Philly

your headphones to your mood.

& Friends. They’ll bring the

A disco where it might seem

bachata, kizomba and salsa –

quiet, but where you can go all

you bring your hottest moves!

out!

SAPIENS

Friday 10 - Saturday 18 June @ Hofpleintheater Sapiens is a visual theatre production telling the story of the stupendous success of humankind. Why are homo sapiens the only human species to have survived? How did we evolve to become the dominant creature we are? And who are we, really? Sapiens tells all, with a journey through the history of humanity.

ROTTERDAM ROOFTOP TOUR

Every Saturday through 16 July @ Rotterdam Tourist Information Coolsingel Come along on an informative exploration of the many surprising rooftops in the city centre! A knowledgeable and enthusiastic Inside Rotterdam guide will take you up to four roofs that are usually closed to the public. Get inspired by all that’s happening up high and enjoy amazing views along the way.

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M A G A Z I N E

COVER STORY

THRIVING NIGHTLIFE IS MASSIVELY IMPORTANT AS A MAGNET FOR THE CITY

TEXT Céline Boute & Fleur Nuisker

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas

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With its strobe lights snuffed out and dance floors empty, the city’s nightlife has also been in lockdown for two long years. Yet there’s still plenty happening in the sector and focusing attention on the social and cultural value of ‘the night’ is as important as ever. Since mounting the 2019 demonstration ‘Opstaan voor de Nacht’ (‘Stand up for the Night’), Thys Boer and his foundation N8W8 Rotterdam have been working hard to promote Rotterdam nightlife and make it safely open to all.

With his long blond locks and enthusiasm for the city, Thys has become a prominent personality in Rotterdam.

THYS BOER

THYS, WHEN DID YOU DEVELOP YOUR PASSION FOR NIGHTLIFE? “As a Rotterdamer born and bred, I was always passionate about local sport, art and culture. And espe-

Age: 28

cially in being actively involved in those things. I played competitive hockey for a long time, but at the

Hobbies: Reading, writing,

age of 15 I discovered the city’s entertainment scene; places like Waterfront, Bootleg and Hollywood. I

listening and dancing to music

met a whole mix of people there who fascinated me: preppy types, hip-hop heads, techno freaks, punks.

Favourite spot in RCD:

The vast diversity in styles and the conversations about music, ideologies and all kinds of issues taught

Schiekadeblock – because of all

me a lot about those people. And even more about myself, as I realize twelve years on. Now, apart from

the entrepreneurs there – and

my job lecturing on leisure and events management at the Willem de Kooning Academie, I also chair the

Kruiskade

N8W8 foundation on a voluntary basis and am a youth representative on the city’s door policy panel to combat discrimination at nightclubs.”

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M A G A Z I N E

COVER STORY

CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE PATH THAT LED

cultural value of the night), I distinguished four

YOU TO FOUNDING N8W8 ROTTERDAM?

pillars that a well-organized nightlife contrib-

“I pursued my interest in nightlife in my bache-

utes to. Those are good employment opportu-

lor’s thesis in cultural studies. After that, I did my

nities, social cohesion, talent development and

master’s research in creative entrepreneurship

urban appeal. After two years of no love and at-

on the social and cultural value of the night. This

tention, and now with a new municipal council,

coalesced in the ‘Opstaan van de Nacht’ protest

I hope to see a turnabout for city nightlife and

on 20 February 2019, against the closing of BAR

that this piece of the cultural sector will receive

(now POING Arcade), which I created as a Face-

public funding as well. With the right resources,

book event out of sheer frustration. Three days

the foundation could make an instant differ-

later, two thousand people gathered on Stadhu-

ence. We are part of the community and really

isplein, including major artists like David Vunk

know what’s going on in the sector.”

and heads of cultural institutions and nightclubs.

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It grew into something bigger than BAR alone,

COULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL

as that was just the latest in a string of places.

SCENARIO FOR ROTTERDAM NIGHTLIFE?

During the protest, I presented the municipality

“First off, I want to stress that I am really pleased

with a manifesto of objectives for the cultural

with where Rotterdam is now. We are moving

and nightlife sector, but that all turned out to be

from a post-industrial to a creative city. Howev-

more complicated. Subsequently, I interviewed

er, there are groups of people who are being dis-

150 people about what they did and didn’t like

placed from this new city; inhabitants because

about Rotterdam nightlife, which then resulted

their homes are being torn down and business

in a vision document laying the basis for N8W8.”

owners for whom there’s no place any longer

“ The city’s positive developments could be exponentially improved by truly embracing raw authenticity with long-time and new inhabitants and businesses.”

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in redeveloped areas. There’s been a lot of talk

HOW AND WHOM DOES N8W8 ADVISE?

about urban development and redevelopment

“The foundation is guided by this vision docu-

being raw and authentic, but how can you say

ment, which is split into three categories: policy,

that when the original residents and merchants

venues and content. We advise the municipality

are being kicked out? What’s raw is the deal that

and businesses about urban nightlife through

people being forced out are getting. The positive

events designed to share knowledge and connect

developments could be exponentially better by

various different players, including scholars, pro-

creating scope for nightlife as it is important for

fessional experts and injured parties. We provide

a buzzing city and making sure to include every-

both solicited and unsolicited advice. Most re-

one in the new plans.”

cently, we’ve been involved in evaluating and developing hospitality and culture policy. And prior

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO

to that, in events policy for Rotterdam Festivals.

SHARE WITH READERS OF RCD MAGAZINE?

We also occasionally offer unsolicited recommen-

“The rise of the 24-hour economy demands pro-

dations on developments where we think some

gressive thinking. These days, we are a city of

sort of action is needed. I tend to go straight for

makers and thinkers. We have what it takes to

the kill and contact politicians or officials directly

make the city more beautiful and progressive

or write an opinion piece in the paper.”

and to do so in a way that includes everybody.

Rotterdam can strengthen her position as an at-

WHAT ARE THE FOUNDATION’S

tractive city to work and live in by improving its

OBJECTIVES?

24-hour economy and seizing the chances that

“Well-organized, thriving nightlife is massively

occur at night.”

important as a magnet for talented young people. In my master’s research (on the social and

M A G A Z I N E

BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BUILDING CONNECT CONGRATULATES DELFTSE POORT ON WIREDSCORE RATING!

UPDATES

RCD UP 2 DATE There’s no lack of urban renewal and development in Rotterdam Central District. On this page, we keep you up to date with the most important news about the place you work, live or come to visit.

ROTTERDAM RIDES: AN URBAN CYCLING CELEBRATION The first edition of Rotterdam Rides is kicking off on the 22nd of May 2022. Rotterdam Rides is a sustainable, fun and free festival for all ages. With nine themed rides and a packed festival programme, it’s a day to celebrate all that makes this city great – by bike!

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Beginning biker or seasoned cyclist? There’s sure to be a ride for you, from racing at top speed and wheelies in Zuiderpark to a lazy playground route for the whole family. Come cele-

Credits: MVDRV

brate cycling and the city! Find your ride and register now at www.rotterdamrides.nl.

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Festival centre at Biergarten

GROUNDWORK FOR THE MODERNIST

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Ever wanted to speed-date on a tandem bike? Is your lit-

FACILITATING OPTIMAL CONNECTIVITY ON ALL FRONTS

Maarsen Groep is gearing up to start construc-

two-wheeler due for servicing? Come visit the festival centre

tion of a new office and housing complex on

at Biergarten on Schiestraat on May 22nd. There’s plenty to

the Kruisplein-Weena corner. The Modernist is

do starting from twelve in the afternoon.

a spectacular tripartite structure designed by

M A G A Z I N E

Rotterdam-based architecture firm MVRDV. Rotterdam Rides is an initiative of the Rotterdamse Fietsal-

The transparent ground level is reserved for

liantie (Rotterdam Bike Alliance), consisting of over 50 local

shops, restaurants, and entrance lobbies.

organizations that are working together to promote bicy-

Above that are four office layers comprising

cling in Rotterdam.

a total floor area of 12,500 m2. And towering above it all are two residential blocks with heights of 125 and 70 metres, together accommodating 369 apartments.

With planning permission recently cemented, the preparatory re-routing of cables and pipelines around Kruisplein is slated to start

The WiredScore international certification gives building users the assurance that Delftse

soon. Trees along Kruisplein were removed

Poort is facilitating optimal connectivity on all fronts. From perfect mobile coverage through-

to a temporary location recently to prevent

out the building and public WiFi in shared spaces to full freedom in choosing internet and mobile

them from being damaged during the works.

telephony providers and easy linkage to systems like CCTV.

They will be replanted upon completion of The Modernist. Demolition of the existing building

INTERESTED IN GETTING YOUR BUILDING CONNECTIVITY TO THE NEXT LEVEL?

is scheduled for late 2022. Find out more on:

Contact Building Connect at +31 (0) 85 237 11 00 or send an email to info@buildingconnect.nl.

www.themodernist.nl.

© Iris van den Broek

Multi-tenant office building Delftse Poort, part of the CBRE Dutch Office Fund, was recently awarded WiredScore’s highest certification!

This makes Delftse Poort the first office building in the whole Benelux to attain WiredScore Platinum certification and marks a new standard for building connectivity and digital infrastructure. CBRE Investment Management applied for the certification and Building Connect assisted them with reaching this spectacular goal.

tle one ready to test-ride a balance bike? Or is your trusty

VOX POPS

TAKING

YOURI NATTEKAAS (39)

THE STAGE

“I like coming to Rotterdam for the cultural offering. Culture is like the oxygen of the city. The cultural scene in Rotterdam is

A lively and buzzing urban scene can be key in attracting talent. And culture can play an instrumental role. We headed out one sunny spring day to ask Rotterdam residents and CIC workers how culture defines a city.

like nowhere else, it’s in-yourface. You see it in the street, it’s in everything, everywhere, all around. If you want to see art, you go to the Kunsthal. For old culture, modern culture – this

SUSAN VAN HOLSTEIN (31)

rich city’s got it all.’’

“Culture is massively important in Rotterdam, mainly because it’s what makes

NAWAL MAHAMED (22)

YANNICK HEKMAN (26) 16

the city and shapes its identity. I live in Rotterdam and love going to its museums, festivals and fun markets. My favourite is the Noordplein market on Saturdays, because it’s small and compact and has exactly what you’re looking for. Rotterdam has the cultural scene you want and expect in a city.”

“Rotterdam’s cultural scene really

“Rotterdam’s cultural scene is

embraces diversity and human

sort of important to me... but

differences. I love that about it. You

not very, actually. I visit cul-

gain an understanding for cultures

tural institutions at most once

that would be unfamiliar other-

a month. This city doesn’t have

wise. You can never get too much

“To me, Rotterdam is Holland’s

much in the way of culture that

of it, but, culturally, Rotterdam is

main city for culture. I’m a member

appeals to me personally. So, I

the place to be. My favourite place

of a circus, so the cultural scene is

Because of Covid, I’m in the process

would consider it from a broad-

to go is Witte de Withstraat – which

super important to me. Most of the

of rediscovering the cultural scene.

er perspective of the whole

I live near now – and I’ve made

cultural spots I go to in Rotterdam

Now that restrictions have been

Randstad. It feels old-fashioned

many new friends there at the local

to me to confine it to one city.”

hangouts.”

ROOS VAN RIJK (24)

are around Schouwburgplein. I’d highly recommend the Circusstad Festival! To me, what’s lacking

TEXT Fleur Nuisker

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas

BRIAN VAN DER SLUIJS (28)

TESS VAN DER KOOIJ (33) “I’m from Rotterdam originally

and moved back here in late 2019.

lifted, places I’m visiting are Witte de Withstraat, Lantarenvenster and the new Boijmans. I can’t

in the arts and culture world are

name any one place in particular;

opportunities for advancement

Rotterdam’s cultural offering is so

and growth.”

scattered. What’s nice about that is

“A city’s vibe and how people interact is defined by its cultural scene.

you can get your culture fix all over

Without culture, you have nothing – no soul. Rotterdam has a strong

the city. The city’s image is defined

cultural scene. There’s loads of diversity, which makes it more dynamic

by culture, and I think that’s really

and varied. It’s tough to say if Rotterdam offers a cultural platform for

important.”

all people and if there’s enough going on culturally for all groups, or if people are confronted with each other enough. There’s plenty culturally in Rotterdam for me at least. My favourite places to go are the Kunsthal, the IFFR and, occasionally, the cinema.”

DAX RAVESTEIN (25)

“Culture is what defines the city. Rotterdam’s cultural scene has carved out a very distinctive identity; it’s a movement in which all cultures come together and live alongside each other. I personally go out a lot, but I do feel we’re missing a central plaza with places to go like other cities have.

Witte de Withstraat is one of my favourite places in the city. It’s a laidback area with a low profile, which I like.”

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M A G A Z I N E

BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

“Everybody knows the difference between a good and a better meeting”

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Say goodbye to endless meetings in big, dull conference

DEDICATION

rooms with chairs that just aren’t quite comfortable. At

At Tuesday, every booking gets a dedicated host who is ready

Tuesday, you’re assured a ‘better meeting’ in a setting

to assist throughout the day and take care of all arrange-

that supports effective and inspired work and dialogue.

ments. From locally-produced finger food and beverages to

“Frankly, I hated meetings myself”, Boudewijn admits.

a delicious and well-earned lunch after business is wrapped

“Meetings tend to take up loads of time and energy and that

up – the choice is yours. “Whether it’s a chic lunch from the

can prevent them from being as productive as possible.” So,

Michelin-starred restaurant The Millèn, in the same tow-

when he took on the development of a new meeting centre,

er, or a healthy snack from Jack Bean across the street, we

he decided to do things differently. “Because, why would I

consult with our guests to be sure of providing everything

give people something that I personally can’t stand?”

they want.”

RIGHT AMBIANCE

DISTINCTIVE MENTALITY

According to Boudewijn, this realization made him leap

Added to that, you’ll find playful nods to Tuesday’s

at the chance to take a different approach. “Here, we’ve

philosophy everywhere you look. Like hourglasses in all

created a place where meeting is fun again.” How has

shapes and sizes (to get everyone sped up when needed)

Tuesday managed that, you might wonder? To begin with,

and ‘Jack the Dripper’: a special slow-brew coffee maker that

the centre offers all the essentials, with an interior designed

forces you to take a break and gets the conversation flow-

to inspire, modern spaces, a convenient location and on-

ing. “Everybody knows the difference between a good and

demand service. In addition, all of the rooms can be adapt-

a better meeting”, Boudewijn says. “Plus the fact that we’re

ed to users’ individual needs. Do you want to meet seated

in the middle of the busy centre, right opposite the central

or standing – or in the middle, with the specially designed

station, and yet it feels like entering a warm oasis where you

Wobbly? It’s up to you. Speaking of inspiring, with the pan-

can have a productive dialogue.”

oramic view of Rotterdam’s skyline from the 23rd floor, you may well wish to linger after your productive meeting. Grab a drink from the bar, with everything from a deluxe coffee

TEXT Tessa Burger

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas

maker to an authentic Rotterdam brew on tap for beer fans.

TUESDAY: MAKING MEETINGS FUN AGAIN

The best day for a meeting? Tuesday!

Most people are at work, squared away all their emails the previous day and are still revved up to get the week off to a purposeful start. Which is why the Tuesday meeting centre, based in the Millenniumtoren, has designed its whole look and feel to recreate the mood of this most productive day of the week. Owner Boudewijn van de Sar explains the philosophy behind his new meeting concept.

www.meettuesday.com

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M A G A Z I N E

LIVING IN RCD

HOME TOURS

IN ROTTERDAM CENTRAL DISTRICT Dana Yifrah, owner of The Gallery Kitchen restaurant, bought a flat in the Stroveer complex a little over seven years ago. The 29-year-old has only grown more attached to her home in that time and plans to hold onto her private palace in the city centre.

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DANA, WHAT BROUGHT YOU HERE?

soon. Also, this place holds so many memories; I could never

“When I graduated from hotel management school, I already

just sell it. Even if I get a place with someone, I hope I’ll be

knew I would be taking over my parents’ restaurant busi-

able to keep this house to let. Maybe I’ll have kids who will

ness. They had run an Italian place in Central Plaza for more

want to live here one day.”

than 25 years, but had to give up those premises and move to a different corner of the shopping centre. I had to prepare a

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SPOTS IN THE CENTRAL

business plan for my course and my parents wanted to use it

DISTRICT?

for their new place. That’s how The Gallery Kitchen was born,

“I’m at The Gallery Kitchen a lot, outside work as well. I

where I started to work with my parents. It was fun, but with

like knowing what to expect, plus it’s the best coffee in

Hobbies: You could almost say work is my hobby. Being my own

me still living at home, we were together 24/7. There came a

Rotterdam. After working out from 6.30 to 7.30 in the morn-

boss, work never really ends. But I don’t mind, because I genuinely

point when I really wanted a place of my own, and eventually

ing it’s nice to be able to have breakfast somewhere, and not

enjoy the restaurant business. In my time off I like to go running,

this apartment came onto my path.”

many places are open that early – so even then I usually end

going to parties and festivals and going out and having fun with

up at The Gallery Kitchen. But I like going to other places too.

my girlfriends.

DANA YIFRAH (29)

WHAT MADE YOU GO FOR IT?

Sajoer is one of my favourite spots for great juices, good cof-

“The interior wasn’t really to my taste when I first saw it, but

fee and nutritious bowls. I always try to order something I

Favourite spot at home: When it’s sunny, I like hanging out on

my dad urged me to look beyond that. We ended up tearing

can’t get at The Gallery Kitchen, since otherwise I might as

the pallet coach on my balcony. It’s my favourite place to start the

out the kitchen, bathroom and toilet and redid the whole

well eat there!”

day.

place. Now, it’s my own little private palace. The longer I live here, the more I appreciate it. It’s really a cosy spot. The open kitchen is ideal for parties and dinners and the balcony gets sun until half past two. The only drawback is that delivery people always have a hard time finding the right address.

The complex has a convoluted layout, so I even have to show friends to the front door the first time they come over. But TEXT & PHOTOGRAPHY Lysanne Wilkens

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the location is ideal: central yet away from the chaos and crowds. On top of which it’s close to The Gallery Kitchen, so I can be at work in minutes.”

HOW LONG DO YOU SEE YOURSELF LIVING HERE? “As time goes on, I do feel I would like a place with more space than the 50 square metres I’ve got now. But for me to leave here I would have to find something really good. Given the current housing market, I don’t see that happening very

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M A G A Z I N E

HOTSPOTS

HOTSPOTS This city is sizzling with all kinds of hotspots. In the Central District, too, there are loads of colourful, delicious and fun places to go. For this issue we’ve lined up three unique places that are well worth a visit, each with its own story and style.

Voor HR-professionals die meer willen weten

Wil jij je verder ontwikkelen en impact maken als HR-professional? Schrijf je dan vandaag in voor een van de hoogwaardige opleidingen van PW. academy.

BERTMANS Bertmans is right in the heart of the city, on Schouwburgplein. This small gem of a restaurant boasts a giant menu filled with delights. There’s plenty for

De opleidingen, congressen en evenementen worden gemiddeld beoordeeld met een 8.

PW. academy werkt samen met de beste hoogleraren en experts in hun vakgebied. Speciaal voor HR-professionals.

Al onze opleidingen zijn Cedeo*erkend, wat garant staat voor kwaliteit, continuïteit en klantgerichtheid.

Agenda.

* In samenwerking met Nyenrode Business Universiteit

2-daagse Masterclass Strategisch Talentmanagement* Start 13 september 2022 4-daagse online Masterclass Strategische Personeelsplanning Start 21 september 2022 6-daagse Collegereeks HR Bedrijfskunde* Start 27 september 2022

PW. academy is een initiatief van VMN Media. 1,5 miljoen professionals, verdeeld over 30 vakgebieden en branches, kiezen dagelijks voor betrouwbare vakinformatie van VMN Media.

6-daagse Collegereeks Cultuurverandering* Start 28 september 2022 6-daagse Collegereeks HR Strategie* Start 29 september 2022 6-daagse Collegereeks HR Businesspartner* Start 2 november 2022 4-daagse Masterclass Arbeidsrecht Start 9 november 2022

everyone to enjoy, because delicious

FOODMAKER

Grab a table with friends and tap your

Bertmans’ speciality. Using pure and

own beers! Where? At Biergarten! The

seasonal ingredients, the restaurant

Ultra-fresh and delicious meals are

outdoor bar is the perfect spot to head

is devoted to serving up innovative

what Foodmaker in Rotterdam is all

for great music, burgers and of course

and

about. Since 2004 they have been pre-

a nice cold one... or several. Also check

international flavours and culinary

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23

M A G A Z I N E

BIERGARTENROTTERDAM.NL SCHIESTRAAT 18

Bekijk het complete aanbod op

pwacademy.nl /agenda

TEXT Fleur Nuisker

Het opleidingsinstituut voor HR-professionals.

Al meer dan 15.000 deelnemers gingen je voor.

BIERGARTEN

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RCD MAGAZINE PARTNER

WTC ROTTERDAM: “WHAT MATTERS MOST IS THAT PEOPLE FEEL WELCOME HERE” Just over five years after work commenced to revitalize and green the building, the World Trade Center Rotterdam master plan is nearing its completion. All that effort has certainly paid off. With a new lobby, renewed entrance and loads of other visible and invisible changes, WTC sets a high bar for the sustainable retrofitting of historic properties. Frank Okker, head of Project Management Investors at Cushman & Wakefield, has been working enthusiastically on this colossal project all these years. We sat down with Frank and WTC Rotterdam Managing Director Eveline Steenbergen to talk about the final phase of the WTC master plan.

24

ICING ON THE CAKE For one thing, even with some setbacks owing to the property’s heritage value, the project will result in a building that is future-ready and tailored to its users. The revamped main entrance looks distinctly more inviting now – Eveline describes it as rolling out the red carpet for visitors – the brand-new eateries, hotel and fitness centre will inject more life, and there are a legion of other changes that not only make the building more sustainable but also more user-friendly. And let’s not forget: the revamped Rotterdam Hall, which will become the heart of the Convention Centre. With the work almost ninety says, and “that’s basically the icing on the cake”. What remains is mainly the facelift of the Beursplein façade, a transformation stretching from the first floor up to the rooftop

Management Investors at Cushman & Wakefield

Steenbergen & Frank Okker, head of Project

WTC Rotterdam Managing Director Eveline

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas TEXT Romy Lange & Tessa Burger

“This project is unique”, Frank proudly points out. In fact, for a

for WTC’s image in the city.” During the design phase, it was

project of such a scale and duration to even be fully completed

found that the general public felt that the building was a bit

at all is exceptional. “There are so many developers and inves-

closed, and they didn’t necessarily feel invited to enter. The

tors hyping up all the ideas they’ve got, but with our investor,

transformation of its exterior and entrance therefore consti-

Bouwinvest, we’re very fortunate that they are actually being

tute a main focus of the project. “People should feel welcome,

carried out.” According to Frank, that’s often not a given, par-

that’s what matters”, Eveline explains.

plans were being drawn up. Deciding that a building needs

VALUABLE PARTNERSHIPS

upgrading is step one, but to then follow through you need an

Frank notes that the original master plan underwent very few

investor that’s willing to step up to the plate.” Bouwinvest has

significant changes along the way. “This is still the basic idea

clearly demonstrated that, Frank says: “Just look at where we

as we originally conceived it.” Besides strong follow-through,

are now. We’ve accomplished so much in five years.”

this attests to a carefully and comprehensively crafted plan.

At the same time, Frank and Eveline emphasize that taking opportunities to reflect on the master plan have been essential, too. “It’s important with a massive project like this not to merely keep ploughing ahead but to look what can still be done better.” And that, Eveline adds, “is what makes our partnerships so valuable, also with investors. We all embraced the master plan and won’t let go. We committed to a brilliant final result that we can be proud of: a sustainable building that’s ready for the future, has lost none of its original value and

Artist Impression facade World Trade Center Rotterdam

25

per cent finished, there is only a few things left to do, Frank

terrace. “This is a qualitative enhancement for users, but also

ticularly in times of crisis. “It was a rocky market when these

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where all are welcome”.

M A G A Z I N E

RETHINK YOUR NEXT WORKSPACE

AIR Offices. Sustainable, healthy and innovative space in the heart of Rotterdam.

AIR-OFFICES.NL

BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

GET IN TOUCH!

VESTOR:

THE NEW REAL ESTATE COMPANY WITH HIGH POTENTIAL A passion for real estate: that’s what fuels the two founders of Vestor. Since starting their company last year, Brian van der Sluijs and Dax Ravestein have made some tremendous strides already. For example, they took on the the redevelopment of an office building to forty new homes in Nieuwegein, they advised in acquiring a premier office property in Waalhaven and invested in a small-scale office building in Rotterdam. With a stunning home base overlooking Rotterdam’s central station square, and after a successful first year, the two are on the path to a bright future.

MAKING IMPACT So, what do they like best about their line of work? “Real estate can really make or break a location”, Dax argues. “It can optimize a whole neighbourhood or area and elevate it to a higher level. It’s great to be a part of that and help make a difference.” As an example, he cites a listed

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historic property they acquired for an associate, now in the process of being converted into a stunning office and apartments. At viewings,

28

thrilled neighbours were already “We never get tired of talking about real estate”, Brian

coming up to confirm that the building would be occupied

grins. “I can get really psyched about a place, the bricks and

at last, after remaining vacant for years. “That’s where you

mortar that make it. It’s amazing to walk around an area,

see on a small scale – this being a relatively small project

see the possibilities and marvel.” That applies “not just in

– the kind of impact our work can have locally and how it

the city”, Dax notes. “We’re going farther afield all the time,

affects inhabitants or visitors.” Plus, Brian adds, “the con-

because there’s a ton of potential in regeneration areas out-

nections with people in the sector also motivate us. It’s

side urban centres. Since we know about plans or can see

fascinating to know who’s behind the beautiful façades

latent possibilities, we can take a future-oriented perspec-

and so who’s to some extent defining the look and feel of an

tive. What will these places look like in 10 or 15 years, and

urban space or area.”

what part can we play?”

TEXT Tessa Burger

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas

UNIQUE APPROACH

M A G A Z I N E

FUTURE PLANS Though the two acknowledge the current real estate market

When it comes to real estate, Vestor’s dynamic duo know

is tricky, they say it only energizes them: “Funnily enough,

their stuff. And vision? They’ve got that, too. That’s why

in spite of this momentum in the market, we’re managing to

they invest not only for and with an exclusive group of

land absolutely brilliant projects”, Dax says. “It really only

real estate partners but also for themselves. From project

gives us more confidence in the future, when everything will

development to investments in logistics and offices, Brian

hopefully calm down again.” At this moment the guys are

and Dax are all-rounders in the property market. “Funda

seeking developing sites and investment properties without

and estate agents don’t come into it”, Brian explains. “We

losing sight of the goal to build their own portfolio. In that

basically do everything data driven and off the market

last matter Vestor is also looking for investors who would

to keep the playing field as small as we can for us and our

like to pick up projects together. “It’s great to be working

partners.” Which makes Vestor not only faster and more

on our relationships, strategies and game plan”, Brian says.

exclusive, but also allows them to find off-the-radar proper-

“When things turn around and the market cools down again,

ties. “By reaching out directly to our network and external

we’ll reap the rewards of the new opportunities that brings.”

connections, we can respond to our partners and secure opportunities in a way that no one else can.”

29

Vestor B.V. | Weena 750 | 3014 DA | Rotterdam +31 (0) 85 060 10 26 | welkom@vestor.nl | www.vestor.nl

“By our data driven approach we can secure opportunities in a way no one else can”

Brian van der Sluijs & Dax Ravestein

TALENT & EDUCATION SPECIAL

TALENT & EDUCATION INTRO

WITH HANS VAN OOSTERHOUT

TEXT Céline Boute

PHOTOGRAPHY RSM

30

The ‘War for Talent’ has been raging for a while now. Finding the right people who also are motivated, enthusiastic and knowledgeable is all-important for organizations. That’s why we’re devoting this issue to lifelong learning. Because, frankly, we’re never finished learning at any age! Hans van Oosterhout is a professor of corporate governance at Erasmus University’s Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), a setting where everything centres on learning and personal development. Having worked there for 29 years, he says he feels and shares the urgency to always keep investing in yourself.

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HANS, THE MAIN FOCUS AT ROTTERDAM SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT

IN WHAT WAY IS RSM PLAYING AN

Not only around life-changing choices, but also within

IS ON TRAINING LEADERS FOR INTERNATIONAL CAREERS.HOW

EDUCATIONAL ROLE IN ROTTERDAM?

or even beyond your field of work. My involvement in

DOES THE SCHOOL APPROACH THIS?

“As well as offering our bachelor’s programme in English,

putting together our new Global Executive MBA and train-

“Aside from training in the latest theoretical knowledge, RSM real-

we also still teach it in Dutch. This attracts 500 or more

ing future generations of leaders has pushed me to keep on

ly focuses on relevant skills and attitudes, so also the ability to do

students, also from the city itself. We play a key public

developing myself as well. RSM excels at working together

practical analyses, execute plans and show leadership when it mat-

role in Rotterdam and the region, which is home to many

with a very international and inclusive student population

ters. We offer a whole spectrum of programmes, from bachelor’s

immigrants and children of immigrants. That diversity is

to educate the leaders of tomorrow.”

degrees in English and Dutch – centring on basic business knowledge

reflected in our classrooms. In the almost thirty years I’ve

and skills that are crucial early on in a career – to RSM’s Global Execu-

worked here, I have seen a very clear shift towards great-

tive MBA, which trains senior managers for strategic board posts. And

er inclusivity at the business school. Another important

then a variety of master’s programmes in between. Our full-time MBA

facet for us is working with businesses that are based in

enrols 97% students from other countries. With our programmes for

Rotterdam. RSM has a Centre for Family Business,

everyone from starters to senior professionals, you could say we’re a

co-founded way back by locally based companies like De

one-stop-shop for lifelong learning.”

Kuyper Royal Distillers, Peterson and Van Oord to do research on family businesses and bring them to the atten-

THE SCHOOL TALKS ABOUT POSITIVE CHANGE DRIVING ACTIVITIES

tion of our highly sought-after students.”

ACROSS ITS DIVISIONS OF RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND SOCIETAL IMPACT. CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THAT?

WHAT IS THE SCHOOL’S VIEW ON TALENT IN ROTTERDAM?

“Our school and degree programmes are highly attuned to society

“We have a very international student body. Rotterdam it-

and the business world. We feel it’s hugely important to do all we can

self is a very enterprising and dynamic city and that exerts

to give our students equal opportunities when they embark on their

a big pull on top talent worldwide. This is good not only

careers. As a business school, we also want to do our part to achieve

for Rotterdam but also for our Dutch students, because it

the world development goals. Our academic research needs to meet

gives them a chance to collaborate but also forces them to

the highest scientific standards but also be applicable in improving

compete with a highly select group of foreign talents.”

practice. RSM’s mission is to be a force for positive change in the world.

For us, that means for example having a positive impact in Rotterdam

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE

as a city, on the performance of companies and workers and of course

TO TELL READERS OF RCD MAGAZINE?

on our students’ development.”

“Investing in yourself throughout life is hugely important.

31

M A G A Z I N E

INTERVIEW

COFFEE BREAK WITH ILSE OVERWATER

This spring issue shines a spotlight on growth, talent and education. Things that are important for us all! Ilse Overwater is the director of Private Banking at Rabobank. Having worked in the Rotterdam region for many years, the 41-year-old says growth and development are what fuel both her and her organization.

mission-driven organization. Growing a better world together is something we apply both internationally and locally. So, taking this idea, something I’ve done based on my own vision and role at Rabobank was to start posting vlogs

TEXT Céline Boute

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas

32

ILSE, CAN YOU TELL US SOMETHING

of a company, so you’ll always have to

on LinkedIn, and that resulted in two

ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND?

keep investing in that or you’ll wind up

new candidates.”

“I am originally from Hoeksche Waard,

straggling behind. In my view, if you’re

from a small village called Strijen. Grow-

not moving forward, you’re going back-

WHAT IS RABOBANK DOING TO

ing up on a farm gave me a real freedom.

ward. I strongly believe we are heading

PROMOTE PERSONAL DEVELOP-

My fascination for ‘growth’ started ear-

towards a future of work oriented more

MENT IN THE CITY?

ly on, with the crops we raised. In that

around roles than titles. If we focus

“One way we want to make a difference

sense, growth has been the common

more on skills in diverse areas instead

with Private Banking is through an ini-

thread in my life. It led me to pursue

of pigeon-holing in job titles, teams and

tiative called the Coöperatie Kring [‘Co-

several degrees, from Inholland Univer-

companies can be much more dynamic.

operation Circle’, ed.]. This is a founda-

sity of Applied Sciences in Rotterdam

At Rabobank, all of our employees get a

tion that brings together small donors,

through to the IESE Business Univer-

personal development budget to spend

of say 1,000 euros, to achieve greater

sity Barcelona. With my specialization

on twelve skills as defined by the com-

impact. Rabobank is a sponsor of this

in financial planning, going into bank-

pany. You can use it towards develop-

foundation, which is working for equal

ing was a logical choice. I’ve worked at

ment for a future role but also for your

opportunities for children in Rotterdam

Rabobank since 2010 and have been able

existing role. Developments are going so

as part of the greater Rijnmond region.

to do some exciting things there. First in

much faster these days. Job descriptions

The foundation is currently working

the regional HR department, covering

can change completely in just five years,

hard to build membership.”

operations throughout Zuid-Holland,

but skills almost invariably stay import-

and now in private banking in the prov-

ant. They keep their intrinsic value, so

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D

ince. For me, it’s all about creating move-

that’s what you ought to invest in.”

LIKE TO SHARE WITH READERS OF RCD MAGAZINE?

ment. It can be a puzzle, with different

WHAT SHOULD COMPANIES BE

“Socrates said: I do not claim wisdom,

DOING TO ATTRACT TALENT?

but only seek a true life. Always pursue

WHY DO YOU THINK IT IS IMPORT-

“Companies need to offer new talent

truth. And then, if you accept that it’s

ANT FOR ORGANIZATIONS TO

opportunities to show their stuff, to

important to keep learning and devel-

Age: 41

STIMULATE DEVELOPMENT AND

develop further and show how they

oping throughout life, stay open and

Hobbies: Power Yoga & meditation

EDUCATION?

can make a difference in society. Com-

inquisitive about everything and every-

Favourite spot in RCD: De Nieuwe Poort

“Companies need to develop on an

panies need to be willing to step off

one around you. You can learn in small

ongoing basis and keep up with inno-

the beaten paths to attract people.

ways, too. What matters is staying

vations. Human capital is the heart

The war for talent is real. Rabobank is a

open and true.”

ILSE OVERWATER

teams every time, but it’s what I love.”

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33

M A G A Z I N E

BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

WANT TO JOIN THE LOX JOURNEY? APPLY HERE!

“We provide software to e-commerce companies that ship large amounts of packages”, Dylan explains. “We analyze and spot errors on their carrier invoices. In case anything goes wrong, we help them to get the money back.” Thanks to Lox, e-commerce companies do not have to worry about their claiming process with carriers and can focus on their core business.

TEXT Tessa Burger

PHOTOGRAPHY Lox Solution

34

LOX: A FASTGROWING TECH START-UP IN A TRADITIONAL MARKET

A unique and open working culture, that’s central at Lox. “We like to give our people freedom from day one”, says co-founder Dylan Hirsch. He started the company with Anna Rouleau and Melvil Donnart on the 1st of April 2020 and Lox has been growing ever since.

Lox provides an AI solution that helps E-commerce companies to save time and cost on their logistics. Today the company is serving several e-commerce players in Europe and has the ambition to continue its international development. In eighteen months, the team has grown from three to fifteen members, all from different nationalities and backgrounds. Besides attractive salaries and nice perks, team personal development and well-being are core values at Lox.

EVER-GROWING MARKET “Logistics is a very traditional market and Lox is using technology to automate manual processes”, Dylan points out. “To innovate in this traditional market, we need very ambitious people that are not scared to challenge the status quo. In the end, the prob-

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lem is a global problem without a good solution. Therefore, we have been building an international team that is continuously focusing on the ever-growing market.” Consequently, Lox’s team has been growing exponentially to keep pace and expects the team

35

to triple within the coming year.

OPEN CULTURE “Maybe it’s a coincidence”, laughs Vincent Tjon Appian, Business Development Executive at Lox, “but I started here about a month ago and have already had the best experience in my career. These last weeks have been quite exciting. Not only because of all the great things we’re doing as a young and dynamic team but also because of the amount of responsibility we’re all given – even new hires. It really is an open culture where everyone has a say in the decision-making”. Isis Fordant, Customer Onboarding Developer at Lox, agrees: “Everyone is really involved, also in the business side of things. There’s not really a hierarchy and we get challenged a lot, which makes it much more fun.”

FREEDOM AND GROWTH Personal freedom and responsibility are reflected in other ways as well, according to Anna. “Our team is free to work from anywhere, anytime in the world. Furthermore, unlimited holidays are provided, as we trust that our team is aware of their responsibilities.”

Additionally, there are great opportunities to grow and evolve within the company, Isis stresses. “I joined Lox as a business developer, but when I realized that I liked working on improving our product more, I was given the chance to switch and explore that.”

Dylan wholeheartedly agrees: “We offer many opportunities for our people, and we want to support them as much as we can in their ambitions.”

Lox Solution | Stationsplein 45, 3rd floor | 3013 AK | Rotterdam +33 (0)6 28 38 94 57 | www.loxsolution.com

M A G A Z I N E

CULTURE

COLUMN

ROODKAPJE RESURRECTED

ALI AND VINCENT: TACKLE THAT 38.9 PER CENT!

In a small corner of RCD known as District East is a unique meeting space for art, culture and terrific burgers: Roodkapje (the name means Little Red Riding Hood in Dutch). In April, after two turbulent years, it was finally time to kick-start this hotspot with a two-day reopening party. Director Marloes de Vries has been at the helm of Roodkapje for a year. With a degree in teaching, she started her career at VPRO Dorst, progressed from there to MAMA and teaching computer science, and recently returned to the central thread of her life: coaching and showcasing talented young makers.

Roodkapje is – in its own words – a local laboratory for art, live

“Mark can call me any time.” These were bunq founder and CEO Ali Niknam’s

performances, food and everything in between. A meeting space

parting words to me recently during his brief visit to the Netherlands from New

where all are welcome, Roodkapje’s zero tolerance policy assures

York City. Though he runs the trailblazing digital bank from The Big Apple

its diversity of employees and visitors feel safe and comfortable.

these days, he used to live behind Rotterdam’s Central Station. By

It’s also a dynamic space; a catalyst for interdisciplinary

Mark, he means Rutte – as in the Dutch prime minister. I met with

productions. Marloes: “Roodkapje sits in the cultural substrate

Ali to talk about the People for People Foundation, a charity

where new things germinate. Our activities are based on three

36

organization he speed-launched with two business friends –

pillars, but we also try to blend a lot of things, like artistic burgers

Robert Vis (of MessageBird) and Joris Beckers (of Picnic) – to

on our menu or performances by visual musicians.” All that makes

help Ukrainian refugees. By rallying his vast professional

Roodkapje a place where young artists and people who want to

and personal networks, he has been able to set up jobs, bank

experiment can explore and discover.

accounts and so much more. Whilst Mark Rutte huddled up in his tower, these three entrepreneurs threw themselves

HAMBURGER COMMUNITY

into the aid effort.

The focus is on developing interdisciplinary art, and in the Hamburger Community, Marloes says, the possibilities are endless.

A little earlier I’d met with Vincent Karremans. This was two

“We’re actively investing in coaching and development through

weeks before the municipal council elections, for which the

residencies. At the moment, we’ve got four artists and two event

voter turnout – at a dramatically low 38.9 per cent – was noth-

managers who are part of the Hamburger Community. They do

© Ralf Emmerich

the cultural programming for a whole year, with the artists given their own studios to create work for seven scheduled exhibitions,

PHOTOGRAPHY Niek Hage TEXT Céline Boute

ing less than tragic. Angry young man Karremans has worked his way from entrepreneur – founding Magnet.Me – to Rotterdam VVD party Vice Mayor for Enforcement, Public Space, Integration and Com-

whilst the event managers do our events. This lets us put on an

munity. Our conversation was about why it’s okay for public officials to go

interdisciplinary programme and, we hope, bring a variety of

Eduard Voorn is a freelance

into business. Right now, fear of failure is debilitating government’s capacity to

different audiences together.” Her vision might be summed up

journalist with a focus on

learn. Vincent concluded our conversation with: “Celebrate your mistakes. Heck,

as “chaos on stage, calm in the house”. Marloes is excited about

economics, and first and

put up a failure board.”

what promises to be a busy year, with a wide-ranging programme

foremost a Rotterdammer.

created by a fun and dynamic group of people.

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Marloes de Vries

He lives in the villagey outskirts

Ali’s and Vincent’s words have been bouncing around in my head. Their

of Rotterdam Central District,

sentiments map onto my previous column, about more actively engaging RCD’s

RESURRECTION

eats his pizza at Bird, raises a

international community in our local politics. But how do we get from where

During the lockdown, the team pushed ahead with a major

pint at Biergarten or Weena,

we are to Ali’s and Vincent’s world? I’m pretty sure that beyond the façades of

development project to remodel the premises, using only reusable

gets his caffeine fix at Lebkov,

all those shiny skyscrapers in RCD are some brilliant companies that could do

materials. The idea is to lower the threshold overall. “In April we

catches the latest flicks in Pathé

something about, say, low voter turnouts. If Pieter (Coolblue), Ellen (OMA),

put on a big party for Roodkapje Resurrected, with performances,

Schouwburgplein and sees

Matthijs (Fabrique) and Julian (Somnox) send their most original minds to

bands, DJs and an exhibition. I urge everyone to get up off the

Scapino at Theater Rotterdam.

Biergarten, maybe Vincent could drum up his most enterprising officials. With a

couch, try something crazy and make the most of the unexpected.”

His kids were born in the now-

little trial and error, they’re sure to come up with useful ideas for when the next

famous Mecanoo architectural

election rolls around. Because let’s be clear: tackling that shamefully low turnout

firm’s first project on Kruisplein.

is a job for the public (Vincent) and private (Ali) sectors working together.

37

M A G A Z I N E

RCD MAGAZINE PARTNER

SAVILLS:

“PROPERTY STARTS WITH PEOPLE”

Companies know all too well that attracting the right talent is a big challenge these days. How is Savills, as a well-established and still-growing company, tackling this? As one of the premier real estate advisors worldwide, Savills is committed to helping its people maximize their potential and creating scope for their talents to grow within the company. In honour of our special feature spotlighting Talent and Education, Recruitment & HR Advisor Annejet Remmelzwaal invited us over to talk about how Savills is attracting the right talent.

“I still go to work with a smile every day”, Annejet is proud to tell us. And that’s vital, according to the recruitment & HR advisor. “Not just for me, but for everyone I work with.

Real estate is quite a small world: everybody knows everybody else. We’re fortunate that many of our juniors can advance within the company and so stay with us a long time. As a young organization, that’s something we always want to promote.”

MOTIVATION IS KEY This chimes well with Savills’ motto: Property starts with people. “Real estate is mainly about bricks and mortar, but fundamentally of course it’s about the people behind the scenes. In our company, we foster their growth to the best extent.” Savills encourages everyone with a passion for real estate to send their CV, regardless of training. Savills covers

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the entire real estate life cycle with their services, from construction to exploitation, to

38

renovation and transformation. This means there is room for talent with a technical background, commercial skills, data analysts, architects, property marketers – you name it!

39

The company wants to stimulate knowledge-sharing across all layers and sectors, Annejet explains. “The key thing for us is an applicant’s motivation. We believe that knowledge gaps can be addressed through courses and training.”

LIFELONG LEARNING As well as training for employees seeking to brush up and boost their knowledge, Savills offers all kinds of options for those looking to develop on other fronts as well, Annejet continues. “It only helps you get better at your job. We have introduced a variety of different programmes for staff who want to go that extra step and are ambitious to grow, for example, but there are also specific trainings.” From Excel to marketing, English or coaching courses – the sky’s the limit. “You’re never finished learning”, Annejet stresses, “and each level brings fresh challenges”. While juniors will find themselves grappling with different issues than someone in management, there is something to learn at every stage.

TEXT Tessa Burger

PHOTOGRAPHY Caily Bobbie Jo

“We believe in a healthy combination of learning by doing and varied training options.”

DIVERSITY Annejet is also determined to break with the stigma attached to real estate and real estate professionals. “There tends to be a prevailing stereotype, but we are a young, open and motivated team, made up of people from all backgrounds and with diverging knowledge. Diverse teams perform best – countless studies prove it – and we are applying that in our company. Whatever your background, if you have the right mindset, we have the job for you.”

CURIOUS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SAVILLS AND WHAT THEY OFFER? Annejet would be happy to tell you more! Get in touch on +31 (0) 20 301 20 00. www.savills.nl

M A G A Z I N E

hospitality, etiquette, navigating the city – lessons that are

ca, have always been a cherished and defining part of her

valuable in careers beyond Mama Taxi, too. It is also a reflec-

life. After arriving in the Netherlands at the age of seven,

tion of Rotterdam as an inclusive and diverse city.”

she determinedly worked her way up to a Master’s degree in

40

Business Administration, graduating from Erasmus Univer-

PAINTING THE TOWN

sity Rotterdam. “Rotterdam is truly my city. I have always

The Mama Taxi team consists of six seasoned stars and

lived and worked in and around the Central District. After

another five women are currently in training. When re-

starting out as a trainee at ING, I stayed there, learned a

cruiting, Zizi works with the municipality and social em-

lot and advanced to external relationship account man-

ployment agencies. It is an intensive and time-consuming

ager. Outside of that, I was always very active in social

proposition, demanding hard teamwork every day. But

issues through professional initiatives and projects like

their efforts are paying off. “Aside from transport for the

Dance4Life.” When she was approached in 2013 to enter the

professional market, such as our partnership with Unile-

‘Best Idea of South Africa’ competition, where she still had

ver, since the pandemic started we have also been serving

connections from her student days, Zizi leapt at the chance

specific target groups, and we are hoping to resume events

to make her own dream come true: to develop a socially fo-

again soon.” Thinking about the future of her business is

cused, full-time business model. She won the competition

also vital, says Zizi. That’s why her entire taxi fleet is elec-

and Mama Taxi began operating in 2016.

tric. “Most women at Mama Taxi have kids and this is also a way they can have a positive impact for the next gener-

TRIBUTE

ation. We drive Teslas because of the good charging infra-

Women employed by Mama Taxi are all at some disadvan-

structure and reach. Our goal is to paint the town with

tage on the labour market and need a helping hand to fully

loads of Mama Taxis while enabling as many women as

reintegrate into the economic marketplace. By making that

possible to permanently reintegrate from assistance pro-

part of its mission, the company pays tribute to Zizi’s grand-

grammes. That’s how we’re contributing to solve a piece of

mother. She always said her own legs were the only taxi she

the societal puzzle in this city.”

trusted to take her to the market – earning her the nickname ‘Mama Taxi’ – and always encouraged, inspired and challenged her granddaughter to be the best she could be and stay mindful of other people and their circumstances. “In Africa, ‘Mama’ is a title of respect used for older women. The power of falling lies in how you bounce back, because women bend but don’t break.

The Mama Taxi concept is focused on empowerment

through

education

and job-creation. Women complete an intensive programme called ‘Driving Your Own Future’. As well as driving skills and theory, they’re also trained in competencies like communication,

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41

M A G A Z I N E

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas

Zizi’s roots in Guinea-Bissau, a small country in West Afri-

TEXT Céline Boute

A company that is making waves in Rotterdam and well on its way to becoming a fixture of our urban streetscape, Mama Taxi’s Teslas crisscross town for professional clients. As its architect and founder, Zizi Fernandes says her mission is to empower women at a disadvantage on the labour market. “Our objective with Mama Taxi is to show that women can embark on new careers in a male-dominated world.” In tribute to her grandmother, the women of Mama Taxi demonstrate that the power of falling lies in how you bounce back.

DRIVING YOUR OWN FUTURE

RCD MAGAZINE PARTNER

RCD EVENTS

Jana Aridi & Laura Di Santolo

FORWARD·INC Supporting newcomers in building human, social and financial capital

TEXT Céline Boute

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas

42

Based at CIC in the Groot Handelsgebouw, Forward·Inc is a foundation supporting newcomers in the Netherlands with launching their own business and persuing their entrepreneurial dreams. Behind the organisations are Diederick van der Wijk and Laura Di Santolo, who discovered a shared passion for connecting people from migrant backgrounds with human, social and financial capital.

Jana Aridi – originally from Lebanon – is currently building her own business through one of the Forward·Inc Programs.

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go into business. Such as Jana Aridi, originally from Lebanon.

“By training, I am an architect, designer and artist. In Lebanon

43

I had my own design practice as well as managing different design programs, but the situation was making it harder to fund or even create new projects.” Jana recently launched her business Project4200, aiming to expose and connect creative businesses in Lebanon to the rest of the world.

FORWARD ROADMAP

RCD X THEATER ROTTERDAM X SCAPINO BALLET

The foundation offers four programmes to which anyone can apply. Laura: “Over 500 entrepreneurs reach us on an annual

On a magical Tuesday afternoon, members of the RCD

basis, and we conduct brief intakes with each one to align

community were invited to Theater Rotterdam for a

expectations. Participants first enrol in an 8-week online pro-

delicious lunch and a spectacular show performed by

The idea began as an RSM international Management Master’s

gram that requires six hours per week to complete. After that,

Scapino Ballet. With a special edition of one of their

degree project, Laura explains. “Diederick asked everyone

we select 30 graduates for the Forward Incubator, which is a

pieces, their take on the classic Casablanca, it sure was

in our graduate program if they’d be interested in getting in-

high intensity four-month program and demands a lot of

an afternoon to remember.

volved with his project to support newcomers with launching

drive and commitment. Participants get a team facilitator,

a business in the Netherlands. He organised a Start-up Week-

a professional business coach and two student consultants

end, inviting aspiring newcomer entrepreneur, students from

from EUR, VU and UvA.” Forward believes it is important to

the university and professional business coaches. They loved

give people the opportunity to become economically inde-

the idea and that’s how we started building our community.”

pendent, and everyone has their own story and factors that

NEWCOMER ENTREPRENEURSHIP

require a personalised approach. “The coaches provide me advice and tools to progress through all the programs For-

It was thanks to the efforts and investments of volunteers

ward·Inc is offering”, Jana explains. “Networking and making

and partners including eBay, Coca-Cola, ABN Amro, law firms

connections are also a huge part of setting up a business.

such as Dentons, and many others, that the young duo were

Once you get the support you need, it feels like you’re finally

able to get Forward·Inc up and running. Now, four years later,

accomplishing something. Forward has helped me to differ-

they are dreaming of becoming a global hub for what they call

entiate myself, my work and of course my business. My goal is

‘newcomer entrepreneurship’. Forward·Inc has an entire team

to register my business in the Netherlands as soon as possible

devoted to helping people from a wide variety of backgrounds

and to one day host exhibitions for designers.”

M A G A Z I N E

BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Time is the new space.

According to real estate consultancy Colliers, maximizing a building’s potential opens up a whole range of possibilities.

For example, by using spaces for different functions at different times, resulting in a win-win for all parties involved. As a partner and as director Real Estate Strategies at Colliers, Harold Coenders advises clients on corporate workplace challenges. Here, he shares Colliers’ vision on the future of the working environment.

A MASSIVE CHANGE Since the property crisis in 2008, the real estate and office worlds have undergone a massive change, Harold says. “In the old days, property owners seemed to assume that ‘if we build it, they will come’, but now they have become more attentive to what tenants actually want and what functions a building actually has to fulfil.” In the wake of the pandemic, these questions have suddenly become more urgent, he explains. “All at once, the need for offices wasn’t as obvious anymore.” Harold argues that it’s crucial to reflect critically on any period like this and ask what lessons can be learned. “We can take those on board in thinking about what shape work will take in the future and designing building functions in the present.”

APPEAL For their part, workers have learned that if they can work anywhere, an office has to be more than just a workspace. “It has to be worth all the bad traffic or delayed trains.” The freedom to choose where to work is the new obstacle corporates and employers face. “The office option has to be as appealing as possible.” That’s where Colliers can help, advising employers on what they can offer to tick all of their employees’ boxes. “We won’t go into salaries”, Harold jokes, “but we advise on everything else that goes into keeping workers happy.”

TIME IS THE NEW SPACE Now more than ever, the classic work culture as we know it is being called into ques-

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tion. Yet, as Harold points out, “The ‘old 9-to-5 normal’ was also just a construct we all agreed on. We are at a juncture now where we have to find a new work equilibri-

44

um, and there’s no better time to come up with new agreements.

If you could reinvent the office, what would you do?” Here, too, building design and function can be a guiding factor, according to

TEXT Tessa Burger & Romy Lange

PHOTOGRAPHY Nestor Tsakirakis, Studio Klijn

Harold. “Time is the new space, as

WE’RE HELPING CLIENTS REINVENT THE OFFICE

we say. That means not only having different spaces for different functions, but also alternating

“The possibilities of a building and its functions are endless”

the functions of the same space over time.” For example, a restaurant that does corporate catering during the week could open its doors to the public during weekends and an auditorium can become a cinema after office hours. “As well as making buildings more appealing to workers, that also helps to enrich urban life.”

INITIATORS OF CHANGE Colliers helps clients understand the value of their office. “If you’re not using your office as much, what else can you do with the space? If it’s empty at weekends, why not use it for something else?” The Rotterdam Central Business District is the gateway to the city centre. This is a unique feature for adding public functions. “It could do great things for the neighbourhood, seeing as the area around the central station is the ideal place for a hybrid urban district, even though it can sometimes still feel a COLLIERS

bit quiet.” Delftse Poort and the new Modernist development could be the initiators

BLAAK 34

of change, Harold argues. “There is so much potential to make the building more ac-

3011 TA ROTTERDAM

cessible to the public during times when its main user is not using it as much, like in

+31 (0)10 412 00 35

the weekend.” And, he stresses, those uses don’t necessarily have to be commercial.

“They could also invest in the community by inviting local initiatives. The possibili-

WWW.COLLIERS.NL

ties are endless.”

45

M A G A Z I N E

MEMOBOARD

#RCD ONLINE

WALK DURING YOUR WORKDAY

SHARE YOUR VIEW ON #RCD

On 7 April it was finally time to kick off the brand-new weeting routes, during a special event hosted by the Municipality of Rotterdam and Rotterdam Central District in collaboration @biergartenrotterdam

with the hiking platform Wandelnet.

Weetings are a fresh approach to business discussions, where you literally ‘walk your meeting’. Talking whilst walking kicks your meeting into high gear! After a workshop and expla-

@rotterdam.rijker

@groothandelsgebouw

nation about what makes physical activity during, before and after work so fruitful, participants suited words to

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@wtcrotterdam

action on a stroll through our own very walk-worthy RCD.

@centraldistrict

46

47

BIERGARTEN BACK IN BUSINESS!

M A G A Z I N E

@rcdpublishers

On a grim and grey Friday afternoon in early April, Biergarten reopened its doors for the season. Even though it was snowy at the opening, we are confident @bdekeizer

of a sunny and fun-filled summer at one of the area’s favourite hotspots.

@cicrotterdam

PHOTOGRAPHY Mark Bolk

VINTAGE KILO SHOPPING IN WTC

FOLLOW US!

@keijren

Do you want to tag us in your posts on social media? Here’s how to find us! Use the hashtag #RCD.

The World Trade Center Rotterdam turned into the World Vintage Center on the 23rd and 24th of April, when Square Eight Vintage took over this iconic building @eddywenting

in the heart of the Rotterdam Central District. They organized a pop-up where vintage lovers could eat their hearts out: with loads of unique and timeless pieces,

/rotterdamcentraldistrict

there was something to find for everyone. Customers pay per kilo, and so were able to upgrade their wardrobe with conscious fashion for only a few bucks.

TEXT Tessa Burger

@centraldistrict

Rotterdam Central District

Square Eight travels the whole country with their vintage kilo sales, so keep an eye out for when they return to Rotterdam!

/ vrcd @weena.chefs

@sivuthy010

SUCCESS STORY

MOONBACK THE BOOKING WEBSITE MAKING THE DIFFERENCE

48

It was while airing his frustration with the modern platform economy on LinkedIn that Niels Meijssen first got the idea for Moonback. Two years, four cities and a successful investment round later, his fair alternative to conventional booking engines is an unqualified success.

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of reactions that elicited, he reckoned it was time to suit actions to words. There had to be a better and more sustainable way. “Within hours, people were

49

already holding me to my idea to start a crowdfunding campaign”, Niels laughs. A promise being a

M A G A Z I N E

promise, he got to work on “We are proving that the platform economy can also take

Moonback. “There were a lot of legal bases to cover to

a social and human approach”, says Niels, his enthusiasm

assure we’ll abide by our own values.” For example,

shining through. “We’re like fair trade, but then fair

Moonback is structured on the steward-ownership model,

tech. A lot of careful thought has gone into designing our

separating profit from shareholder voting rights. “That’s so

hotel-booking concept to be as transparent and fair as

our business principles won’t be compromised. It’s basically

possible.” For starters, Moonback presents a geographic

a safeguard to protect our philosophy.” Which is not to say

and honest listing of all hotels, instead of commercial rank-

shareholders have no input in what the company does. They

ings that put the highest-paying clients at the top. “There

are consulted at various points along the way: for instance,

are so many shady things going on at these kinds of plat-

about the cap on a founder’s salary. “We get loads of input

forms”, says Niels, who points out that the frustrations he

and that speaks to the level of engagement in our base.”

TEXT Tessa Burger

PHOTOGRAPHY Bastiaan de Haas

voiced in his post could just as easily apply to virtually every major multinational in the modern platform economy. It

FUTURE PLANS

just so happened that the first news to pop up in Niels’ feed

Moonback offers hotel bookings in Antwerp, Amsterdam,

after a ten-week sabbatical in Japan concerned Booking.

Rotterdam and Delft already, so how long before we can

com’s request for government relief during the first lock-

all book a romantic weekend getaway to Prague or Rome?

down. For him, it was the last straw. “Pandering to share-

There’s a whole world out there to conquer, after all. “Our

holders and maximizing profit: that’s all so many of these

plan is to progress one step at a time from four to fifty

companies care about. Years of fixating on money has led

cities, and then keep expanding from there.” The company

to all sorts of abuses. Privacy violations, tax evasion – you

will need more human and financial resources to do that, so

name it.”

a fresh crowdfunding round is also in the works. “We have

SOCIAL AND FAIR

grand plans, but we need support to get there. Our investors are joining a movement that’s on a mission to change this

Niels couldn’t let it pass quietly, and after expressing his

system from the inside. It’s awesome to see people share

concerns in a LinkedIn post that went viral, and the flood

our faith.”

“We get loads of input and that speaks to the level of engagement in our base”

ARCHITECTURE

FACTS & FIGURES ARCHITECT: KRAAIJVANGER COMPLETED: 1959 RENOVATED: 2009 ORIGINAL USE: POSTAL PROCESSING/ SORTING COMPANY CURRENT USE: MULTI-TENANT OFFICE BUILDING FLOORS: 15

Nationaal Archief, Herbert Behrens

Stadsarchief Rotterdam, Ary Groeneveld

DIMENSIONS: 52 METRES TALL,

50

RAILWAY POST OFFICE Rotterdam is continually evolving. The city is famed for its great diversity of 20th-century architecture as well as its newer ultramodern structures. In each issue, we shine a spotlight on one of Rotterdam Central District’s iconic buildings. This time, on the railway post office.

Rotterdam’s former railway post office, added to the national heritage list in 2019, was wholly designed for postal processing and sorting. At 15 storeys, it stands an impressive 52 metres, and stretches 105 metres

TEXT Fleur RomyNuisker Lange

PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHYMarlies MarliesLageweg Lageweg

in length. This towering structure was one of the first to be developed after bombs flattened much of the city in the Second World War. The building was constructed between 1955 and 1959 for the Dutch state-owned PTT postal service, with the architecture firm Kraaijvanger providing the design. They translated the functional brief into a building of distinctive solidity, comprising a concrete structure finished with brick, artificial stone, glass and metal strip windows by De Vries Robbé. Everything in the building was designed for maximum functionality. Post arrived on a separate platform at Central Station or was unloaded from postal lorries. It was then transported to the upper floor to be sorted and sent back down via a system of slides and chutes. Inside the building there were also several canteens, a medical unit, conference rooms and executive offices.

EDGE OF THE CITY

105 METRES LONG

Art was an integral part of the railway post office as well. From the outset, it was intended to be not only functional, but filled with artworks. More than fifteen well-known local artists supplied work, including Dolf Henkes, Wally Elenbaas,

To read more about this

Kees Timmer, Henk de Vos and Gust Romijn. These artworks, which bore no rela-

building, take a look at

tion to post and were displayed mainly in the stairwells, are still preserved today.

www.wederopbouwrotterdam.nl

In 1992, the postal sorting facility was relocated to the edge of the city, leaving the railway post office vacant for years. It was finally renovated by a project investor in 2007-2009 and converted into a multi-tenant office building that was renamed Central Post. When the building reopened in 2010, it offered two thousand workspaces and was the most sustainable listed building in the Netherlands. Nowadays, one of the tenants is news media ‘Algemeen Dagblad’ (AD) which is an exciting addition looking at the history of the building. Today, Central Post is an important part of the Rotterdam Central District.

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51

M A G A Z I N E

RCD MEMBERS

JOIN THE ROTTERDAM CENTRAL DISTRICT COMMUNITY In order to realize our ambitions and to optimally develop the potential of the district, we have been bundling all the knowledge and interest groups in the area into an association since 2009: Rotterdam Central District.

Not only are we aware of and familiar with all of the developments in the area, we are also

FLORIAN BRAAKMAN FOTOGRAFIE

joining forces in the neighborhood to create a good reputation for the district. We are a catalyst for positive change. We discover, connect and take action to make this happen. in collaboration with organizations, both small and large, investors, residents and the

DELFTSESTRAAT 33

municipality, we are building a more social, green and sustainable area with an authentic

Florian is a photographer

and robust reputation. Our association stands up for the interests of your organization.

and artist whose mission is

Together we develop the area, we put it on the map. Join our community.

to connect people through audiovisual installations.

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The association keeps you informed of developments of and stories from the neighborhood. We also host various events for the community, from lunch concerts to neighborhood drinks and substantive sessions. In this way, we stimulate connections and possible collaborations, good

PLUQ STUDIO

52

for expanding or maintaining your network. We join forces to work on area development and a

DELFTSESTRAAT 17E

53

good reputation of the district.

A studio open to all for superb vocal recording, mixing down

To achieve this we have:

tracks and professional music

• RCD Talks: knowledge sessions about and from the district

production.

•

M A G A Z I N E

RCD Events: network drinks, events and lunch concerts

• RCD Q&A: source of information and a brainstorming day for the neighborhood

SANDER DE BREUK CONSULTANCY

•

General meeting: meeting regarding the realization of the area plans

•

News & updates: various substantive articles, interviews and news updates

© Iris van den Broek

• Magazine: 10,000 circulation, 4 times a year. RCD members advertise with a discount

WEENA 435D For Sander, hospitality is a way of life. With his large and diverse network, he helps clients navigate the hospitality

• RCD Podcast: conversations with entrepreneurs from the area •

Various active social media channels: Twitter, Linkedin, Instagram, Facebook

•

Monthly online newsletter featuring the latest news from RCD

LOER ARCHITECTEN DELFTSESTRAAT 33

QUESTIONS OR REMARKS?

With a passionate team of architects, Loer Architecten

Please contact Rob Ittmann +31 (0) 6 22 24 21 77

designs residential buildings,

or mail to: info@rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

offices, villas and public interiors, bridging dreams with

Association Rotterdam Central District

reality.

Weena 690 (14e verdieping) 3012 CN Rotterdam For more information about RCD, please visit: www.rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

© Hester Blankestijn

industry.

MEMBERS

MEMBERS VERENIGING ROTTERDAM CENTRAL DISTRICT If your company isn’t on this list, please contact info@rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

Berend van Zanten - Groenemorgen Changemaker, kickstarter, creative entrepreneur and driving force behind a slew of initiatives (DAK, Dus Wat Gaan Wij Nu Doen, Vrijheidsmaaltijdsoep, Vegan Food Festival), Berend is a man of many talents with a mission to make a ‘green tomorrow’.

Sebastiaan Beekman - Lucie with the Six Punches In hindsight, turns out it wasn’t the best year to start a business, but luckily former Marine Sebastiaan can take some knocks. Who better to open a boxing club?

3MP online video

Eneco

Rabobank Rotterdam

AKRD

Eurekon

Roodkapje

Alticom B.V.

Gemeente Rotterdam

Rotterdam Festivals

Amber

Greenberg Nielsen

Rotterdam Marriott Hotel

Arconiko Architecten

Greenchoice

Rotterdam Partners

ASR

Groot Handelsgebouw

SaM& doethetgewoon.

Atelier van Berlo

High Potential Academy

Sanderdebreukconsultancy bv

Bar Rotterdam bv

Holmris B8

Scapino Ballet Rotterdam

Big Room B.V./Reverse/Mykech

Humanoids BV

Spaces Hofplein

Broodje Q

JLL

Steel Rides

Carthago Consultancy

LaatBloeien

Stichting De Nieuwe Poort

CBRE

Lebkov & Sons

Stichting Theater Rotterdam

CBRE global investors

Loer Architecten

Studentflex

CIC Rotterdam

LS&H Lawyers

Time is the new space

LSI Ontwikkeling BV

Unilever NV

Ikram Mataich - Ziri

Marcus Groeneveld - Ciphix

Ciphix BV Codarts

Lucie Group B.V.

Urban Minds B.V.

Ikram and her sister are bringing traditional Moroccan cuisine into Dutch kitchens with their brand Ziri: funky tajines, fresh from Fez.

Ciphix is the digital workforce solution. For staff who don’t smoke and never fall sick. The firm grew from three to forty (real!) employees in no time.

Colliers

Maarsen Groep

Van der Stap notarissen

Conix RDBM

Mess

vanStijl

Cromwell Property Group

NS

Vereniging Rotterdam Central District

Cushman & Wakefield

Ooms Makelaars Bedrijfshuisvesting B.V.

Vereniging Verenigd Schouwburgplein

DakAkker rooftopfarm foundation

Pike Delivery

Workspot

De Mik Bedrijfshuisvesting

Pluq Studio

Wrap Maniacs

District East

PPF

WTC Rotterdam

DVDW advocaten

Premier Suites Plus Rotterdam

ZUS

Echo

Provast

Joep Klabbers en Catja Edens Zoarchitecten & Spatie

Linde Elsinga - Echo UrbanDesign

Mister Candlelight and co. – aka Joep and Catja – are a dynamic duo harnessing the forces of architecture and architectural history for the urban future.

Linde = ECHO Urban Design = Linde. This landscape architect has plenty of ideas for climate adaptive design in RCD. Let’s go for it!

COLOPHON Association Rotterdam Central District

Our goal: With an excellent business climate, world-

Editor-in-chief: Romy Lange

Weena 690 (14th floor)

renowned educational institutions within reach,

Adjunct Editors: Céline Boute & Tessa Burger

3012 CN Rotterdam

and leading companies in many sectors from many

Intern: Fleur Nuisker

info@rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

countries, RCD has huge potential. Association

Advertising: Please send an e-mail to

www.rotterdam-centraldistrict.nl

Rotterdam Central District contributes to the RCD

info@rcdpublishers.nl for questions

by realizing a well functioning area. The goal is to

about advertising.

promote a district that has international appeal, and

Art Direction and Graphic Design: vanStijl

high quality working and living conditions.

Translation: Taalcentrum-VU

Magazine RCD is issued by:

Tycho Luijten - Dapper Rhinos

Anoesjka Imambaks - Barabox RCD Publishers

His agency has just one mission: do whatever it takes to put your business on the fast track to growth. How, you ask? So did we. Tycho gave us a peek into the present and future of online marketing.

Anoesjka is a busy bee. Juggling multiple roles in Rotterdam, recently she also cooked up the ‘bara’ – Rotown’s own oliebol. Anoesjka tells us what it stands for.

Printed by: NPN Drukkers

Groot Handelsgebouw, 7th floor

Circulation: Free for the RCD district. The magazine

Stationsplein 45

is distributed by promo teams, loose circulation

Do you have a message for the editorial team

3013 AK Rotterdam

and HRM departments of companies within RCD to

or would you like to place an ad? Send us an

+31 (0) 20 362 09 93

guarantee reaching the (sub)target groups of RCD.

e-mail at info@rcdpublishers.nl.

info@rcdpublishers.nl www.rcd publishers.nl

Featuring conversations with entrepreneurs from Rotterdam Central District – the business district around Centraal Station – the RCD Podcast is an initiative of the RCD Association and District East. All podcasts are recorded in Time Is The New Space, the RCD clubhouse at Schiekade 185.

Frequency: four times a year

Copyright © 2022 RCD Publishers.

All rights reserved. Nothing appearing in this magazine (information, pictures, images) may be copied or reproduced, in any manner whatsoever, unless explicit permission has been given in writing.

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55

M A G A Z I N E

The Modernist, 12.500m² office space and 369 apartments in Rotterdam Central District.

A location beyond compare for people who live big.

For brands that aim for the stars. For companies that embrace the future. Don’t make history, make the future The Modernist

The Modernist is an initiative by

TheModernist.nl