Mindful Connections. - A Mental Health Workshop
About this Event
Date & time
Wednesday, 23 September 2026
18:00 – 21:00 hrs
African dinner served from 18:00 hrs
Location
H-Base
Hogevecht 188A
1102 HK Amsterdam
Event description
Mind. Support. Community.
Moving to and building a life in another country can bring many opportunities, but it can also come with pressure, uncertainty, loneliness, family concerns, financial stress and challenges around belonging and identity.
Mindful Connections: A Mental Health Workshop creates a welcoming and culturally sensitive space where African migrants and residents of Amsterdam Zuidoost can talk openly about mental wellbeing, learn practical ways to manage stress and strengthen their personal resilience.
The workshop forms part of PAMDA's Healthy Connections initiative and is designed to promote mental wellbeing, reduce loneliness, strengthen social connections and create safe spaces that respect cultural identity.
The session will be interactive, practical and community-oriented rather than overly clinical. Participants will be encouraged to reflect, share experiences where comfortable, learn from one another and take home practical wellbeing tools they can use in everyday life.
What will we talk about?
The workshop will explore some of the pressures that can come with migration and settling into life in the Netherlands, including:
- stress and emotional pressure
- loneliness and social isolation
- adapting to Dutch systems and society
- separation from family and familiar support networks
- financial pressures
- parenting and family responsibilities
- questions of cultural identity and belonging
These themes are drawn directly from the planned guided discussion on stress in migrant life, which is intended to remain practical, sensitive and supportive.
What to expect
Warm welcome and culturally friendly opening
We begin by creating a relaxed and respectful atmosphere focused on wellbeing, connection and practical support.
“Where I draw strength from”
A simple icebreaker inviting participants to reflect on what gives them strength — such as family, faith, friendship, music, culture or community.
Guided discussion: Stress in migrant life
A culturally sensitive conversation about the pressures people may experience when moving to and living in another country.
Mind-body relaxation
Simple breathing, stretching and relaxation techniques that can help calm the body and mind.
Practical coping tools
Participants will explore simple strategies they can use in everyday life, including:
- breathing exercises
- taking a walk
- talking to trusted people
- journaling or prayer
- staying socially connected through community activities
Supportive listening and community connection
Participants will have opportunities to practise listening to and supporting one another, helping to strengthen empathy and community care.
Who is this workshop for?
The workshop is particularly relevant for:
- African migrants living in Amsterdam
- residents of Amsterdam Zuidoost
- people who experience stress or pressure connected with migration or adjustment
- parents and families navigating life between cultures
- anyone who wants to strengthen their mental wellbeing and resilience
- community members who want to learn healthier ways of supporting themselves and others
No previous experience with mindfulness or mental-health workshops is required.
Suggested programme
18:00 – 18:30
Arrival, registration and delicious African dinner
18:30 – 18:45
Welcome and “Where I draw strength from”
18:45 – 19:15
Guided discussion: Stress in migrant life
19:15 – 19:30
Mind-body relaxation and mindfulness exercises
19:30 – 19:55
Story circle: My journey, my resilience
19:55 – 20:15
Cultural wellbeing and practical coping tools
20:15 – 20:35
Supportive listening and community connection
20:35 – 20:50
Community resources and questions
20:50 – 21:00
Closing reflection and collective affirmation
Professional facilitators
LOA Foundation
The workshop will be supported by professionals from LOA Foundation.
Organised by
Pan-African Media & Development Agency – PAMDA
Partners
ProFor
Gemeente Amsterdam
LOA Foundation
Registration
Places are limited, so early registration is recommended.
Register online:
You can also scan the QR code on the event flyer.
Contact
Email: [email protected]
Website: pammedia.org
Telephone: 0626046432 / 0684606550
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
