Happy to be in Twente
An increasing number of highly educated internationals are choosing careers in Twente. Many skilled migrants stay after completing their studies, or come to the Netherlands with their families for an extended period. As they are essential to the job market, it is important to retain them. Therefore, it’s crucial to offer them not only an interesting job but also an enjoyable place to live and thrive—in other words, to make them part of Gross Twente Happiness.
Happy to be in Twente
The World Trade Center (WTC) is joining forces with the University of Twente (UT), Saxion, Novel-T, Ondernemend Twente, and the Municipality of Enschede to support this initiative. “Skilled migrants, or expats, often come here with their whole family and intend to stay long-term,” says project leader Michelle Ekkelkamp. “These are people in whom the region should invest to make living here attractive, especially when they bring their families. Our project focuses on three themes: career opportunities for partners, introducing the Dutch language and culture, and improving access to information from public institutions like the municipality or housing associations. In short, we want to integrate them into Dutch culture.”
Cultural Differences
The same applies in reverse for the business community. Although companies may find it hard to fill vacancies, they sometimes hesitate to hire international employees. According to Michelle, this often comes down to simple things like language, cultural differences, and complex immigration formalities. “We’re also focusing on supporting companies, such as through translating documents like employment contracts and offering language courses. We’ll use internationalisation vouchers, allowing businesses to bring in a translation service, a cultural coach, or arrange language training for employees.”
Sharing Experiences
Michelle also believes it’s important for businesses to share experiences and bring experienced and less experienced companies together. “We aim to facilitate knowledge-sharing on various themes at small gatherings or a larger event,” she says. “There are countless possibilities; we can’t cover it all in one year. We’ll start with a pilot year and build from there. That’s why we refer to it as a programme rather than a project.”
Raising Awareness
With partners like Saxion, UT, and the Municipality of Enschede, the working group is diverse and can reach many areas to raise awareness through a marketing campaign. “We’ll also collaborate with existing projects like Going Dutch, which has a similar goal: connecting international students with companies in our region.”
Gross Twente Happiness
In terms of Gross Twente Happiness, the project contributes to the following pillars:
Income
“We ensure companies are better equipped to work with international employees, increasing employment opportunities in the region for international graduates and PhDs.”
Baanzekerheid
“More companies will be equipped to work with international employees through this project. As a result, job opportunities in the region will increase for international students and PhDs. For partners of skilled migrants who accompany them and want to build or continue a career in Twente, this project offers a better chance.”
Personal Development
“Both companies and internationals develop personally by interacting with other cultures, learning (or improving) a new language, and, specifically for companies, improving HR-related activities.”
Health
“By fostering an enjoyable stay in the Netherlands, we support the (mental) health of internationals, increasing their likelihood of staying and continuing to work at local companies.”
Work-Life Balance
“In addition to a career, a fulfilling personal life is essential. This project enhances access to sports and cultural offerings.”
Social Connections
“We create a strong network of companies that can learn from each other. Personal connections are key; you’re more likely to ask a question if you know someone. We also create opportunities for internationals to meet each other, ranging from an annual fair and physical meeting space to meet-ups and language groups.”
Housing
“Housing is essential for attracting internationals. Part of our role within the project is to ensure that existing (housing) projects consider this target group.”
Funding
Agenda voor Twente
Want to know more?
Contact project leader Michelle Ekkelkamp
P: 06 39 115 125
M: m.ekkelkamp@ecen.nl
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