During the symposium, policy officials, neighborhood sports coaches, researchers, advisors, project leaders, and area managers gathered to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and explore collaborations. In addition to inspiring working sessions and roundtable discussions, there was also room for active movement moments. One of the highlights was the launch of the new expert scheme: the Movement Brigade.

What is good for a tricycle is also good for a walker

The day was opened by moderator Thijs Zonneveld, who engaged in conversation with deputy Anne Koning. She emphasized the importance of a movement-friendly environment: “We learn to move between 0-7 years, and if the living environment invites children to move, it is often also feasible for a 50-year-old or even older. If it works well with a stroller and a tricycle, it is often also good for a walker.”

Initiative from Below

Locally and regionally, a lot is being done in South Holland. People are taking action themselves, uniting at neighborhood and community levels, and motivating each other. One of those initiators and panel members during the day was Miquel Pocorni: “Listen to each other and acknowledge each others qualities. To get people moving, you need relationships and connections. Look for people who can facilitate this.” Esther Landaal from Omzien Barendrecht - winner of the Best Movement Initiative 2024 - pointed out the importance of movement space for people with physical disabilities, such as the blind and visually impaired.

The conclusion of the day was unanimous: sustainable change does not come from above, but from the people themselves. The real movement starts from the bottom up.

More Information

• Use the offerings for a movement-friendly living environment: the province cherishes that bottom-up movement and wants to stimulate and support it. Use, for example, the overview of movement regulations and support options (opens in new window) in South Holland.
• Check the Expert Scheme Movement Brigade for vulnerable neighborhoods (opens in new window) from the National Program for Livability and Safety.
• Sign up for the election of the Best Movement Initiative (opens in new window)