We heard reactions and experiences from various sources about how different people experienced the Refugee LinkUp campaign. High time for a look back from the team behind the campaign - the brilliant and driven people of our wonderful partner 180 Amsterdam. Marie Vermeulen, account manager and spider in the web for this campaign, asked a number of her colleagues to share their experiences with her. They look back together.

Please note: this article was translated using a translator app

“Together with the team at Refugee Talent Hub, we looked for a way to create awareness for this social problem (the fact that people with a refugee background are held back in their search for work in the Netherlands because they have a limited relevant professional network). to have). That was a very nice challenge,” says Marie.

The people behind the statistics

 “Once we had developed the idea and had completed all the preparations, it really started,” Didi continues. “What I will remember most is the day we finally had the photo shoot and were allowed to meet the status holders. The people behind the statistics. The realization that so many talented people, with incredible willpower and inexhaustible courage, still struggle to find a job due to the lack of a network, strengthened my belief in the Refugee LinkUp idea even more.”

 Iris nods and indicates: “A campaign that focuses on changing the narrative around that social image of 'refugees in need of help' and wants to show that people with a refugee background are equally valuable and talented employees, and that employers should regard them as such, is so important and empowering . It was great to be able to contribute to such an initiative.”

“The result really exceeded our idea”

 Ersem and Dyon – two of the founders of the idea of ​​the campaign: “We all have good ideas, but achieving meaningful results with such an idea is a completely different story. And by results we mean a status holder who dares to pose for a photo as powerfully as a CEO, or the construction of countless new networks and deep unforeseen connections. When likes and shares really start to make a contribution. Yes, that is where for us the result completely exceeds our idea.”

 Bob fully agrees with this and adds: “How an interpersonal idea can achieve so much in such a short time is very nice to see. It also shows that highlighting important issues like this with creativity can really make a difference.”

 “As an advertiser you can sometimes wonder what you contribute to the world,” says Paul. “Projects like Refugee LinkUp make this very clear in one fell swoop. I am proud of the team and the way this was picked up by the outside world. And very happy for the status holders we were able to help. I think it's really brilliant that there are now duos who are taking over the idea.” Marie nods in agreement: “The icing on the cake!”

Positive social impact

 “We are proud that we have been able to contribute to an initiative with so much positive social impact,” say Pluk and Žan. “Impressive to hear the inspiring stories of people who have had to overcome so many obstacles to continue their lives in a new world.” Josephine adds: “This was my first campaign, and I could immediately feel the impact you can make with a well-executed initiative. It was super inspiring to see the results!”

Get inspired (or reminisce): watch the aftermovie now !