On Wednesday, March 4, several newcomers were once again honored for their special efforts in taking their first steps in Dutch society. As part of the Mijn Arnhemse Successen project, these new residents of Arnhem received a pluim as recognition for their commitment to social integration, labor participation, and language. The festive ceremony took place at Rozet, in the presence of alderman Paul Smeulders.
Paul Smeulders, Alderman for Refugees: ‘I am very proud of these Arnhem newcomers. They show what is possible when you build your future with perseverance and courage. These people are not only an example for other newcomers but also for our entire community.’
Recipients of a pluim
Among the recipients are inspiring stories of newcomers who demonstrate what is possible with perseverance.
Denys Lefymenko
Denys came from Ukraine to Arnhem in 2025 and has since been actively involved in his integration. He helped at various events and supports weekly activities at Playground Thialf. With his positive attitude and commitment to learning Dutch, he is an inspiring example of involvement.
Elina Zhuravel
Elina has lived in Arnhem since 2024 and combines study, volunteer work, and creativity. As a volunteer at CONNECT Arnhem, she helps with translations and information for newcomers. She also organizes creative activities and mainly supports neurodivergent people in their integration.
Hani Mamaar
Hani came from Syria to Arnhem and works as a classroom assistant at Taalschool En Nu Nederlands. He supports lessons and helps newcomers through the Taalstart project in learning the language. With his dedication and motivation, he is an inspiring example for others.
Hasan Ali Muhudin
Hasan (22) comes from Somalia and is pursuing an MBO education in hospitality. Besides his studies, he volunteers in activities for the elderly and children. He is known for his positive, helpful, and humorous attitude.
Mrs. Alanoud
Mrs. Alanoud comes from Jordan and has lived in Arnhem for 3 years. In her home country, she worked as a filmmaker and director and made a film about womens rights. With her creativity and social involvement, she wants to contribute to the Arnhem community.
Mnawer Cheikho
Mnawer comes from Syria and, despite a long period of uncertainty, actively volunteers. She helps with cooking activities and neighborhood dinners for the elderly. She is also diligently attending her integration classes.
Qolpan Wusiman
Qolpan came to the Netherlands in 2022 and completed the intensive education route at a high level within a year while caring for two young children. She speaks five languages and can now start an MBO-4 program. She also volunteers at Refugee Work with translations.
Ramona Rajaei Ghazlo
Ramona came from Iran to the Netherlands in 2022 and quickly built a new life. She works at Starbucks and follows the NT2 education route at the Arnhem and Nijmegen University of Applied Sciences. With her perseverance, she is working purposefully on her future.
Seare Birhane Kidane
Seare has lived in Arnhem since 2023 and is known for his open and positive attitude. He started at Accon AVM in 2024 and grew to team leader within a year. His dedication and perseverance make him an inspiring example.
Zabiollah Neghadam
Zabiollah quickly learned Dutch and progressed through the language transition year to higher education. He now works as a teaching assistant at ROC Rijn IJssel and helps newcomers with language. In 2025, he started the HBO International Business program.
CONNECT Arnhem (pluim – organization)
CONNECT Arnhem is a meeting place in Rozet where Arnhem residents and newcomers meet through culture, language, food, and workshops, including in collaboration with A Beautiful Mess. The organization supports many inspiring newcomers who volunteer, connect, or guide workshops. This work contributes to an open, hospitable, and inclusive Arnhem.
Pluims and Trees as Symbols of New Roots
From the nominations, the jury selects several recipients who receive a certificate and a tree. According to Bureau Wijland, this tree symbolizes the new roots they are growing in Arnhem. Nominees can take the tree home or participate later in a joint tree planting day.
About Mijn Arnhemse Successen
Commissioned by the municipality of Arnhem, Bureau Wijland organizes the Mijn Arnhemse Successen project. The initiatives primary goal is to reward newcomers who dedicate themselves with great effort to their integration. It also provides the municipality with valuable insights into factors contributing to successful integration.
The jury consists of the Newcomers Bureau of the municipality of Arnhem, Bureau Wijland, Refugee Work, Rozet, Mariel Kamminga, and artist Albert Van Der Weide.