Diversity Day 2026: Connecting Beyond Differences 6 October 2026 16:00 - 18:00

On Diversity Day, we’ll talk with each other about diversity and inclusion. Speakers will discuss neurodiversity, as well as religion and science. There will also be a panel discussion. Everyone is welcome. Will you be joining us? If so, sign up quickly using the registration button on this page!

At ACTA, we believe that our differences make us stronger. Everyone brings something unique to the table: their own background, experience, perspective, or way of thinking. It is precisely because of these differences that we can learn from and connect with one another. But connecting doesn’t mean we have to be the same. By being open to one another and staying curious, we understand each other better.

Together with VU, UvA, and HvA

ACTA is currently the only faculty at VU and UvA with its own program on this day. That’s why we’ve decided together that students and staff from VU, UvA, and HvA are also welcome to join us. Whether you know a lot about diversity and inclusion, want to learn more about it, or are simply critical and curious: you’re more than welcome. Every perspective counts.

Everyone has their own story

Inclusion is often found in the little things—in how we listen to one another, how we respond to each other’s ideas, and how we make space for different perspectives.

ACTA is a diverse community of students, faculty, and staff. That diversity is sometimes clearly visible, but sometimes invisible as well. Everyone has their own story and brings valuable experiences to the table.

That’s why we want to do more than just say that diversity and inclusion are important. With this event, we want to consciously draw attention to this topic. We want to work together to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, seen, and heard—a place where differences are embraced and where inclusion is a given.

Programme

We are exploring how differences in background, experience, and perspective can contribute to an inclusive and connected university and faculty.

Opening & Welcome: Oriana van der Sande-Simenciuc from ACTA’s Diversity Office will discuss Diversity Day and the theme “Connecting Beyond Differences”
Speaker and trainer Marije Pietersma will discuss neurodiversity
Speaker and literary scholar Warda El-Kaddouri discusses religion and science.
Panel discussion: Different perspectives on diversity, inclusion, and equality come together around the table, with room for conversation.
Questions for the speakers.
A casual get-together to chat, meet, and connect.

Starting date

6 October 2026

Time

16:00 - 18:00

Organised by

ACTA Diversity Office

Language

Dutch

Marije Pietersma – Neurodiversity

Marije Pietersma worked for many years as a commercial manager. In 2023, she decided to pursue a new path. Through lectures, training sessions, coaching, and e-learning courses, among other things, she helps people and organizations better understand and leverage neurodiversity. She is committed to fostering greater understanding, inclusion, and appreciation for different ways of thinking.

She doesn’t do this alone. Marije founded “The Brain Hub,” where professionals with their own experience and knowledge of neurodiversity work together. They help organizations recognize and harness the power of different ways of thinking.

Warda El-Kaddouri – Religion and Science

Warda El-Kaddouri is a literary scholar, journalist, lecturer, and postdoctoral researcher at the Open University. In 2019, she earned her Ph.D. from Ghent University with a dissertation on “religion and identity in modern German literature.” Through columns, lectures, and debates, she draws attention to stories and perspectives that are often underrepresented. She has written for publications such as *De Groene Amsterdammer* and *Rekto:Verso*.

In 2021, her debut book, *Dominance: Why We Think What We Think*, was published—an essay on how dominant narratives shape our view of the world. She also wrote *Don’t Forget Us*, based on her research into diversity and inclusion at the Amsterdam City Archives. Warda lives in Amsterdam, where she organizes monthly feminist reading nights called “Met Andere Woorden” in Nieuw-West.