In an international city such as Eindhoven, connection does not always come naturally. There are many different languages, backgrounds, and perspectives. This diversity enriches our community, but it also calls for intentional opportunities to meet and engage with one another. On 25 February 2026, STE Languages is proud to host the 11th edition of Connecting Cultures – Buurten met Buurten. This special evening brings together Eindhoven residents, both locals and internationals, to explore what truly makes a city inclusive.

During these gatherings, dialogue, mutual understanding, and inclusion are central. In an open and safe environment, we discuss current themes such as living together, language, identity, and integration. The evenings are bilingual (Dutch and English) and combine panel discussions, interactive conversations and personal stories. It is not a one-way exchange, but a genuine encounter. Whether someone has lived in the same neighbourhood for 30 years or has been in the Netherlands for just 30 days, every voice matters.

The 11th edition will take place on 25 February 2026, with STE Languages as the proud host venue. The event begins at 7.45 pm at our location on Aalsterweg 3 in Eindhoven. The central theme of this edition is: How can Eindhoven become truly inclusive?

As hosts, we also contribute to the programme content. We are pleased to welcome Audrey Rousse-Malpat, Assistant Professor in Language Acquisition, who will share insights from French linguistics. In addition, there will be a live interview with our director and co-owner, Mathilde Lageman, who is also an ambassador for the Expat Spouses Initiative.

Although Connecting Cultures is an independent initiative, its mission aligns closely with the work we do every day at STE Languages. For us, language is more than grammar or vocabulary. It is a means of participation, building relationships, and feeling at home in a new environment. In our classrooms, we see how language opens doors to employment, social networks, and self-confidence. At the same time, we recognise that true inclusion goes beyond language proficiency alone.

We warmly invite everyone to take part in this meaningful edition.
Let us connect cultures, ideas and people together.

Registrer through the QR code or this link: Connecting Cultures-Buurten met Buurten