Tariq Abla from Amsterdam
In one of the most famous halls for major celebrations in Amsterdam Oost, the city witnessed on Thursday evening a special humanitarian event organized by the Municipality of Amsterdam to celebrate volunteer work and community initiatives that illuminate the capital's neighborhoods.
The celebration, which carried an atmosphere of joy and pride, brought together hundreds of influential actors and volunteers who have dedicated years of their lives to serving people. It included the honoring of a number of prominent figures in humanitarian and social work, in appreciation of their giving and their positive impact on the local community. It was the day before yesterday on a warm autumn evening, where feelings of joy and gratitude flooded the hall, which was filled with melodies, laughter, and the aromas of various dishes, including the Moroccan dishes "Rfissa and Couscous" which added a flavor of authenticity and generosity to the party. The faces and languages varied, and hearts met on one rhythm.. Celebrating goodness. The ceremony began with a warm word from the mayor, Karolin de Heer, who congratulated the Friendship Community Association on the occasion of its annual holiday, praising its long history full of giving and dedication to serving the residents of Amsterdam Oost. De Heer confirmed in her speech that she was optimistic about what the association had provided over the decades, and about the initiatives it would continue to provide, embodying the values of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation. In that atmosphere filled with love, the moment of honoring that everyone had been waiting for arrived, when the municipality announced the honoring of Ms. Malika Kerklo, one of the shining faces in the volunteer work journey within the Friendship Association. Amidst the applause of hundreds of attendees, the head of the district stepped forward to present her with a special certificate of appreciation, in a moving scene that combined pride and gratitude. Malika Kerklo, with her calm smile and light tears, embodied at that moment the story of a woman who dedicated her time and effort to serving others without compensation. For years, she has been at the forefront of supporting people, organizing activities, and helping in language and social support programs, and building bridges of love between the children of the neighborhood, believing that true integration is not measured by words, but by honest daily action. In her speech during the ceremony, Karolin de Heer said: “People like Malika make our city stronger, more humane and more beautiful, she embodies the spirit of volunteering, and shows how one person can make a big difference in the lives of others.” Applause rose from all corners of the hall, where the attendees stood in respect, including a large number of members of the Moroccan community who proudly expressed their belonging and integration into Dutch society, presenting a bright image of Morocco and Moroccans in this hospitable country. The evening was more than just a celebration; it was a message of love and appreciation, in which the humanity and diversity of the city were manifested, where faces met, languages mixed, and feelings united on one tune.. Gratitude to everyone who gives without expecting anything in return. At the end of the ceremony, music blended with applause, and tears with smiles, while the name of Malika Kerklo remained, echoing among the attendees as a symbol of goodness and inspiration, and as a living model of the power of women when they work for others with love and faith. A glimpse of this special event can be viewed via the following link.. https://youtu.be/m4Q5X842MVM?si=53fQ05KSY0N7h4oD
