She came for love, but that was only for her husband, not the city. When Miriam Frosi (50) moved to the Netherlands from Gorgonzola, Italy, in 1999, Eindhoven only mildly appealed to her. But over the years, Eindhoven became more her home. As a City Council Member for the CDA (Christian Democratic Appeal), she is committed to a city where everyone is welcome.

Metamorphosis

When Miriam first visited Eindhoven, she found the city uninspiring. “I came from the Milan area, a vibrant fashion capital and the economic heart of Italy. Eindhoven was different. To be honest, I found the city mostly dull and grey. The shops closed early, the city center was empty in the evenings.” It wasn't love at first sight, but Eindhoven nevertheless captured a place in her heart. “Eindhoven’s metamorphosis is amazing. We’ve transformed from an industrial city into a creative hotspot. Look at Dutch Design Week, the festivals, the diversity. Nowadays, you can sample dishes from all over the world. The city is much more vibrant than it used to be.”

In the wake of all these developments, Eindhoven has also become more international, and English is increasingly spoken. Miriam believes that’s a missed opportunity. She advocates for employers to actively encourage their international employees to learn Dutch. “It helps in the workplace, but also in everyday life. Language opens doors. That’s why the role of organisations like STE Languages is so important.” They help internationals learn the challenging but beautiful Dutch language. This helps people feel at home and those who feel welcome also want to give something back.

Equal opportunities for everyone

Yet, growth also brings challenges, as Miriam acknowledges: "Brainport is booming, but that comes with challenges, such as sufficient housing, schools, and sports facilities. The labour market faces a significant shortage of people in healthcare and education, as well as engineers and practical training. Brainport is renowned for its manufacturing technology and design, so it's crucial that we ensure a good match with businesses at all levels." According to Miriam, this is a key task for the government, education, and employers. "The challenge is to make Brainport's economic growth tangible for everyone."

Language makes a difference

For Miriam, language is the foundation of integration. “When I moved here, I didn't speak a word of Dutch. There was no Duolingo, no Language Café, no expat groups. For the first year, I only spoke English, until I met an elderly woman in the supermarket who didn't speak English. That was my turning point: I had to adapt, not her.” Miriam decided to take a language course and borrowed the money from her employer. “That was perhaps the best investment I ever made. Learning the language takes time, but ultimately, the effect was significant: I improved relationships with my neighbours, understood jokes, and could finally talk to my son's teacher. Language gave me freedom and self-confidence.

Multilingualism is a strength

That raises the question: can you truly become part of society if you don't speak the local language? Miriam: "You can be happy here without speaking Dutch, but then you'll remain in the English bubble. I want everyone to have the opportunity to break out of that and experience what it means to learn the language. This also played a role in the Connecting Cultures project, which I launched to connect people from different worlds. Under the motto "neighbourhoods with neighbourhoods," people discuss diversity, living together, and what's needed to ensure Eindhoven remains a pleasant city to live in. These are open and honest conversations between people from different backgrounds, without complicated language, but simply about what's going on in the city and in your neighbourhood. We encourage people to learn Dutch, but also to remain proud of their native language. Multilingualism is a strength, not a barrier."

Politics begins on the streets

In her political work, Miriam tries to build bridges between residents and government. “For me, politics isn't a career, but a calling. I'm grateful for what Eindhoven has given me and want to give back to society. My strength is my visibility: I spend a lot of time outdoors, among people. I bring the matters that resonate with people and organisations to the city council.”

Miriam sees it as her personal mission to increase international voter turnout in the next municipal elections. “In Eindhoven, it's currently around ten percent. My goal is 25 percent. That's why I also advocated for a voting pass in both Dutch and English. The same applies when people contact the Eindhoven Municipality by phone. Residents can call using the number 14040. For a long time, you'd hear a Dutch voice saying: ‘Say loudly and clearly the municipality where you live.’ That immediately turned people off. I've worked to make that bilingual as well.”

Vision for the Future

Suppose we're 25 years from now. What will Eindhoven look like then? What are Miriam's hopes? "Eindhoven is growing, that's a fact. My dream is for Eindhoven to remain a city where everyone feels welcome, regardless of origin, religion, or background. We must maintain that friendly atmosphere. Furthermore, I hope we'll stop talking about 'internationals' and 'Eindhoven residents.' Only about people who make this city together. That's true connection."

After eight years in the CDA municipal faction, she wants to leave a legacy there as well. "My legacy within the CDA is an international list of municipal council members. Coming from all corners of the world, but united by shared values: solidarity, participation, and shared responsibility. I want to leave behind a new generation of politicians who will build on my work. And that means ensuring that everyone feels represented and welcome."