The first photo appears on the screen in the Amsta Vondelstede nursing home: a black-and-white Amsterdam street from the early 20th century. “I lived there,” says a resident. Another recalls: “My mother was 13 when the Palace of the People’s Industry burned down. Icicles were hanging from the fire hoses. It was that cold.”
Such reactions make the lectures from the Foundation Old Learned Young Done (OGJG) special. The foundation connects student teachers with seniors for series of lessons on various topics. They are held at different locations in the city and are sometimes free to attend. The themes vary, but recognition and exchange are always central.
Experience History Yourself
One of the teachers is Tyree. In the living room of the nursing home, he concludes his 4-part series on the history of Amsterdam. It covered, fittingly in this anniversary year, about 750 years: from the Middle Ages to now. “What fascinates me the most are the stories of people who have experienced history themselves,” he says. “You dont learn that from a book.”
Demonstrating
When topics hit close to home, such as the protests in the 1960s, the conversation flows naturally. “Has anyone ever participated in a demonstration?” Tyree asks. A lady responds immediately: “I did, but my mother actually didnt want me to go.” She is not the only one. Several residents have once taken to the streets. Someone else recounts how she once narrowly escaped from the riot police.
More than a Lesson
The lectures officially last an hour but often run over. Participants ask questions, respond to the material, and share their own experiences. “I was hanging on your lips,” says someone after the session. For Tyree, this confirms the added value of the concept: “Many seniors want more than bingo. They are curious and like to engage.”
Friendship and Love
Sometimes a lecture series leads to more than just a good conversation. “Several friendships have formed,” Tyree explains. “And 2 participants, both in their 80s, met during the lectures. They started dating and now have a relationship.”
Join In?
In August, September, and October, Old Learned Young Done organizes free lecture series at various locations in Amsterdam, including OBA Mercatorplein, Molenwijk, Javaplein, and Banne. The topics range from the VOC to business economics and from literature to health.
Online
Prefer to participate online? In August, some lectures can also be followed from home. With the discount code Amsterdam-OGJG-2025, the lectures are free this month.
Register
For the current list of lectures, online offerings, and registration, visit the website of Old Learned Young Done.