By Roy Lie Atjam
The Hague, 13 March 2026. The evening commenced with humor from former State Secretary for Finance, Nora Achahbar, now an SBBIS ambassador promoting a positive image of the international community. Organized by Stichting BewonersBedrijf In de Schilderswijk-SBBIS under the direction of Mr. Itai Cohn, the event featured Sjaak Bral, the MC. of the Correspondents’ Dinner, who brought lively entertainment. The Social Hub in Schilderswijk was filled with notable attendees, including
Mr. Jozias van Aartsen, former mayor of The Hague and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has played a crucial role in breaking down the city’s ‘invisible walls’ and empowering residents. The Hague Bridge (Haagse brug) was key to these efforts. Now serving as SBBIS ambassador, he continues to enhance the city’s international relations and shape public perception.
Other attendees included Mr. Andrew van Esch, a seasoned organizer of diplomatic events, Mr Hans Huizer, the former rector of the Johan de Witt Scholengroep, has a remarkable track record. Dr Hanan El Marroun a Professor of Biological Psychology at Erasmus University Rotterdam.
The Schilderswijk Correspondents’ Dinner stands as a vital local political event in Schilderswijk, drawing inspiration from the American Correspondents’ Dinner. This is not a case of folly; it is a celebration purposefully crafted to meet the needs and culture of our community
During this event, local politicians humorously roast each other, revealing the personalities behind their political roles and making politics more relatable for residents.
The first dinner was held on March 9, 2018, at the Samson Youth Centre, hosted by comedian Sjaak Bral, who led engaging sketches performed by politicians. The event returned in 2022, again hosted by Bral, and was broadcast on TV West. It draws both local and national media, fostering a vital connection to the community as residents prepare to vote. The Schilderswijk Correspondents Dinner was held in the decisive days leading up to the municipal elections on March 18, 2026.
What an incredible evening spent among a diverse and vibrant group of people in a dynamic neighborhood! In these polarized times, it is essential to engage with one another as human beings. The night was filled with sharp roasts, some clearly more impactful than others. Janet Ramesar, who holds the second position on the SP ticket, didn’t hold back in her playful critiques of every party present, including Hart voor Den Haag. She boldly stated, “I see posters everywhere with ‘and now De Mos,’ but with a different face each time. It certainly confuses me. We’ll see after the elections how many people are shocked to discover that this De Mos isn’t a Turkish or Indian man. By the end of the evening, a jury, together with the audience, decisively named Janet Ramesar the champion of the roasts. She rightfully claimed a special trophy for her outstanding performance.
Without a doubt, Janet Ramesar was the true winner of the night, completely captivating the audience with her wit.
This event served as a powerful reminder that democracy goes beyond politics; it encompasses the strength of community and the importance of connection.
