On 25 March 2025, a network meeting for and with academics with a refugee past took place at the Utrecht University of Applied Sciences. The central theme of this meeting was: how do we optimally utilise the talent of academic newcomers and how do we better familiarise them with the academic landscape? The meeting was organised by the recently established Society of European Scholars (SES) foundation, in collaboration with the Decent Work lectorate of the Utrecht University of Applied Sciences.
This meeting is special, because it is the first activity of the SES Foundation. It is about academics who have created value. How do we ensure that talents do not go unused? How do we utilise the value that these people bring with them?
Many people have an academic title, but due to a lack of perspective, they work as an Uber driver, for example. This is not only a loss for the individual, but also for our society. How can we enter into partnerships to counteract these kinds of developments and optimally utilise the potential of these people?
That is why the foundation was established – and that is why this evening! A new beginning, together and for each other. The foundation exists to expand networks, to promote the exchange of experiences, and to support each other. Alone you are a drop, together we are an ocean.
Program overview
After the welcome speech by Dr. Ibrahim Kurt (SES), Dr. Leendert de Bell (Hogeschool Utrecht) gave a substantive introduction to the theme. This was followed by a panel discussion with contributions from Fatih Aktas (Open Embassy), Lina Senen (Incluusion) and Ewing Amadi Salumu (UAF). The meeting was concluded informally and atmospherically with a joint iftar meal, plenary feedback and a personal gift in the form of a bookmark.
Impression of the atmosphere
The meeting took place in an atmospheric room with green decoration and an adjacent roof terrace. The tables were thematically divided into sectors, which stimulated the exchange of experiences and opportunities per sector. Moderator Emre Cicek (Social Work lecturer) led the evening in three languages (Dutch, English and Turkish), and brought lightness through interactive questions such as ‘What is your favourite Dutch word?’
Content contributions
* Dr. Ibrahim Kurt (chairman SES):
Dr. Kurt welcomed everyone on behalf of SES and explained the mission of the new foundation: building a network for and by academics with a refugee background. He emphasised that every participant brings valuable knowledge and experience with them and that SES wants to contribute to making this potential visible and using it.
* Dr. Leendert de Bell (Lecturer at Utrecht University of Applied Sciences):
Dr. de Bell provided insight into the low labour participation among status holders, despite their often high level of education. Major obstacles are the complex diploma evaluation, poor language skills and a labour market that is not very accessible. He advocated creating ‘in-between space’: a mix of learning and work paths, shortened training courses and practical experience that allows people to enter meaningful work more quickly.
* Panel discussion:
Fatih Aktas (Open Embassy), Lina Senen (Incluusion) and Ewing Amadi Salumu (UAF) shared insights from their work practices. It was emphasized that finding a connection in the labor market often starts with small steps: seeking personal contact, using networks and not being afraid to show initiative. Lina Senen shared how Incluusion helps students follow education within the university, and how this contributes to integration. Aktas underlined the importance of community-based support and pointed out the importance of low-threshold access to relevant information. Salumu called for more customization and recognizing diversity as a strength. The panelists encouraged participants to not only look at traditional academic functions, but also to be open by looking at the broader societal and public sectors.
Conclusion
The meeting ended with a joint iftar, with plenty of time for discussion around the table. The participants received a personalized bookmark as a thank you. The meeting was experienced as inspiring and hopeful. There was a clear desire for continuation and deepening, with connection, visibility and practical support remaining central
