Expat Journal

That time when a red dress..."

The Coachforexpat Column.A space where I share my experience as an immigrant in the Netherlands—the highs and the challenges—to break the myths about life abroad!

When I left Italy, I had one strong need: to put everything on pause. And that’s exactly what I did.

When you start a new life, perhaps by moving to a different city or country, you can choose to become invisible. For some, it’s unbearable; for others, it’s a path to healing. Being invisible wasn’t difficult.

When you don’t speak the language—or maybe just a little, and poorly—you don’t know anyone, and your only contacts are your family and the institutions, becoming invisible is easy.

But then things changed. I changed. And I wanted to feel like this was my new home. You know what they say? I wanted to put down roots.

When my group of friends and I launched Gezellig Together Hub, I felt a deeper sense of belonging. It wasn’t about my husband’s job, my children’s school, or their daily lives—it was about my experience as an immigrant woman.

Through this, I started to build more connections with the community and with various volunteer and non-profit organizations working in my neighborhood and citywide.

I met so many people from different countries, social backgrounds, and cultures. And through these connections, while working on our organization and presenting our initiative, we showed up. We made ourselves heard.

A few months ago, I was interviewed for a new magazine dedicated to volunteers who, with creativity and energy, contribute to their communities. Volunteers who start small initiatives but have a big impact in their neighborhoods. Those volunteers who, without fanfare, manage to change so many lives.

Yesterday, Annie, the magazine featuring our story, was presented to the Mayor of Eindhoven and the community. It was exciting to be part of it. I certainly never imagined my face would end up on an A3-sized magazine!

And yet, among all the emotions of the evening, the strongest was tied to a red dress—Vinita’s, one of our team members. It sparkled! She looked stunning. She was visible. That red dress, kept in her wardrobe for a special occasion, was a precious gift and a confirmation that our work is truly making a difference.