PRESS RELEASE - STE Languages is celebrating its 30th Anniversary with magazine on "Medelanders"
5 august 2025
PRESS RELEASE
STE Languages celebrates 30th Anniversary with inspiring magazine about "Medelanders"
EINDHOVEN – The language institute STE Languages is celebrating its 30th Anniversary with the publication of a special magazine: "Medelanders." The magazine is filled with personal stories from students, instructors, and partners and provides a compelling insight into the unifying power of language in a rapidly changing, international society.
"Medelanders"
In the anniversary magazine, published by FRITS media, STE Languages board members Wilfried Gradus and Mathilde Lageman reintroduce the term "Medelander" and explain its meaning. "Medelander" is not simply an alternative for a migrant worker, refugee, or expat, but an invitation to mutual engagement and genuine connection. "Being a fellow citizen means participating, being open, and engaging in and continuing dialogue with each other – even when it gets awkward," say Gradus and Lageman. STE Languages advocates for more space for internationals and newcomers to make mistakes, accept accents, and view language as a bridge to participation. "Fellow citizens" is therefore not just a term. It's also a response to the times we live in, where differences between people and groups are so emphasised. An inclusive society means working together, with language and culture as a bridge. This message aligns with STE Languages' mission: "Embrace new cultures, Master the language."
About STE Languages
What began in the 1950s as the Philips Language Department has, after becoming independent, grown in three decades into a leading centre of expertise for language and culture training. Since becoming independent in 1995, STE Languages has helped more than 75,000 students learn over twenty languages. Dutch is the most popular language, followed by English, German, Spanish, and French. STE Languages, which trains more than 5,000 students annually, has its headquarters in Eindhoven, where Open Enrollment is held. In addition, in-company training courses are offered at clients' locations in over 90 locations throughout the country. With partnerships and collaborations with organisations such as Brainport voor Elkaar, Holland Expat Center South, and companies like DAF, Vanderlande, Randstad Groep, PSV, Canpack, TMC, and ASML, STE Languages has become a powerful force for integration, communication, and growth.
Website: https://www.ste.nl. The magazine, logo, and images are available upon request.