What a warm welcome and what an energetic start! It started on 27 October, with Nina handing over the NAV as a lasting gift to the city. A gift to the liveability of Amsterdam, supported by almost fifty allies, and set up with great vision and dedication by Nina. Being allowed to take over the baton feels like an enormous honour, but also like a clear assignment: to stand for this together and to continue to do so.
My first hundred days are behind me and I can honestly say: reality is more beautiful and hopeful than the image that sometimes arises. Now that the first meeting has also taken place, I look ahead with confidence and a lot of energy.
In the introductory round with all allies and during the handover with Nina, I got a good picture of where the alliance stands now. It is impressive to see how many parties are motivated to strengthen each other and make a joint commitment to the city. It is precisely the reduction of fragmentation and having a network and back support at times of need that are seen as the NAV's great strength.
The mission statement stands firm. The real mission for the next three years lies in the how. And after that first meeting, that doesn't feel like a task, but an invitation. An invitation to get started and discover together what works. Not by thinking we have all the wisdom, nor by talking endlessly. But:
And above all by connecting, because one thing is clear: there is already a lot. The people, the resources, the initiatives, the experience, the decisiveness: now we just need to make the right connections, bringing forces together equally for our common goal.
I am looking forward to working with the NAV team and you guys!
Together we make the city. Let's go!
With connecting greetings,
Jarcine Chip
Director-director
