OUR PROGRAM @
NHL STENDEN
Bridges by Mentors introduces a Mentoring Outreach Program, where international
students take on the role of mentors & volunteers for local NGO’s. Through tailored
(free) training, interactive offered activities, and sustained engagement, the program
empowers both mentors and local communities, fostering meaningful and lasting
connections.
NHL Stenden is one of the largest universities of applied sciences in the north of the Netherlands. The university is widely recognized for its strong focus on internationalization, offering 19 English-taught bachelor’s programs and 7 master’s programs. NHL Stenden operates across 6 campuses in the Netherlands and 5 additional campuses abroad.
Internationalization has always been a key priority for NHL Stenden. Students pursuing their education here have the opportunity to study at one of the international campuses, allowing them to broaden their horizons, experience new cultures, and grow into globally minded professionals.
In 2023, NHL Stenden set out to bring its rich international experience closer to the local community. The goal was clear: to bridge global perspectives with the heart of Friesland. This initiative sparked deeper reflection on how best to foster meaningful connections between international students and the region. Each student arrives with a wealth of knowledge, diverse cultural backgrounds, and fresh perspectives. The challenge — and opportunity — was to create spaces where local youth could engage with these global insights, and where Friesland itself could become a vibrant stage for cultural exchange and shared learning.
International students who take part in Bridges by Mentors begin with a training program consisting of 15 exercises. Through these sessions, students explore the essence of mentoring, learn how to build meaningful relationships with local youth, and reflect on their own strengths and personal traits. The goal is to help them grow into confident, self-aware, and globally engaged individuals.
Alongside the training, students participate in organized excursions throughout the local area. We visit historical sites, discover traditions through fun events, explore local museums, go ice skating, and meet local farmers to learn about agriculture. These experiences give international students a deeper glimpse into life in Friesland and what it means to be part of this community.
Once the training is complete, students are matched with local organizations to co-create group mentoring activities. These organizations include schools, community centres, clubs — and perhaps even yours. We’re always looking to expand our network and turn mentoring into a movement that empowers local youth across the region.
What can a group mentoring activity look like?
- Cooking sessions with pupils from a primary school
- Interactive language roleplay to practice real-life language skills with secondary school students
- Sports tournaments organized with local clubs
- Cooking with Dutch university students to exchange cultures — from conversations to tastebuds
- Joining scouting clubs to collaborate on green projects
- Storytelling circles where students share folktales or personal stories from their home countries
- Art workshops creating collaborative murals or crafts inspired by different cultures
- Dance or music sessions introducing traditional moves or instruments from around the world
- Drama workshops acting out scenes from folk tales or cultural stories
- Join local environmental projects to plant trees, raise sustainability awareness, and learn about native plants
Are you inspired by this initiative and believe that international students could make a meaningful impact within your organization?
We’d love to hear from you! Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the form below.
Example of the last program
Interested ? Leave us a message, we will recontact you.
Each participent to Bridges by mentors receive a certificate mentioning they have accomplished from 30 hours to 50 hours to volunteer in an NGO.
Here are 2 examples of what our volunteer added on their resume, and it looks pretty great :
_ Had the opportunity to mentor a 8 year old kid. Learned to teach english but also grow as a role model for someone. Adapted a model to fit the need of the student.
– Volunteered as a dinner chef assistant for a Cantine that welcomes homeless and struggling families for a meal. Learned- active leastening and reinforced my empowerement to help others.
OUR PARTNERS
CHECK OUT THE DIFFERENTS VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES (LIST IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE)
A small VWO-level school in Leeuwarden with a strong focus on classical education, including Greek and Latin. Founded over 100 years ago, it combines tradition with modern facilities and promotes values like respect and reflection. Students grow academically and creatively through subjects like science, humanities, music, and theater.Primary & secondary school Th De Vriesskoalle
A public school in Feanwâlden offering bilingual education in Dutch, Frisian, and English. With small classes, modern tools, and a focus on personal growth, it provides a safe and creative learning environment where students are encouraged to explore their talents.
Moody’s by Amaryllis is a youth-focused community center in Leeuwarden for ages 12–27. It’s a safe space to explore talents, get support, and connect through activities like sports, music, and themed events. Youth workers offer guidance and help young people grow with confidence.