All women are important

Merve (20) has been active as a volunteer at More Women in Politics for over half a year. She is full of curiosity and inspiring mottos for herself and others. Handy when you are looking for what you really want in your life.After studying Liberal Arts and Sciences for two years, Merve is now taking a gap year to figure out what she really wants. She enjoys learning and contributing to society. On International Women’s Day, she met Marie-Anne who gave a lecture at the library about More Women in Politics. Merve was so excited that she asked if they needed volunteers here. And so it happened.

Diversity

“Half of the Dutch population is female, and it is important that they are well represented because they possess many qualities. Especially people with a non-Dutch background can contribute to more diversity.” Merve herself has a Turkish father and is always happy when Turkish women become politically active. “Even if it’s within the VVD.” Merve has a different political party preference herself, but at More Women in Politics, that doesn’t matter. “Whether you are Moroccan, Chinese, Surinamese, lesbian or heterosexual, right-wing or left-wing: all women are important.”(text continues below the photo)

Film

“We make visible how many women are active in politics. We also organize accessible introductory courses on politics and debating for women throughout the year.”we make videos, where I sometimes help write the script and guide extras.”

Mission accomplished

Merve remains a bit in the background and mainly observes. “Someone called me mysterious but definitely present,” laughs Merve. “The women at an introductory course in politics often thank me for the organization. And we received a lot of compliments about the film. I learn a lot from it myself, which is also important. And there are demonstrably more women who have actually entered local politics after the course. Mission accomplished!”(text continues below the photo)

Do something with your possibilities

Both of Merve’s parents have attended university. “They really encouraged me,” says Merve. “My father said, ‘You have the brains and you have the opportunity to do something with it. Go for it! Don’t take it for granted.’ Maybe I want to become a political journalist. But I’m not exactly sure yet. There are so many interesting possibilities in the world. I trust that it will work out well.”Interview: Thecla Groot KoerkampPhotos: Jackie Mulder

Are you excited?

Look atwww.meervrouwenindepolitiek.nlOf checkour job boardHere you will find over 1000 fun volunteer opportunities in the city. See what suits you!