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about us

Mission

The mission of Stichting Kastanje is to introduce, connect and constantly develop collaboration between Ukrainian and Dutch cultures.

Vision

By celebrating the rich tapestries of both Dutch and Ukrainian cultures, Stichting Kastanje aims to champion a spirit of inclusivity and warmth within society. At the core of its mission is the promotion of diversity and inclusion. Through its diverse range of programs and activities, Stichting Kastanje will actively work towards dismantling barriers and fostering greater understanding between communities. By showcasing the unique traditions, arts, and customs of both cultures, Kastanje seeks to create a space where people from all backgrounds feel welcome and valued. The core vision of Stichting Kastanje is to establish the Dutch-Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Amsterdam, a vibrant physical hub for cultural exchange and exploration. Ultimately, Stichting Kastanje aspires to contribute to a more harmonious and tolerant society, where cultural differences are embraced and celebrated. It will serve as a beacon of unity, promoting dialogue, empathy, and mutual respect among individuals and communities.

Objectives

seeking to connect

Our objectoves include, among others:

1. To explore the similarities and differences between our cultures

2. To create a welcoming and inclusive space where Ukrainian expats and refugees can connect with Dutch society and culture, and where Dutch people can learn more about Ukraine and its people.

3. To help Ukrainians adapt to the Dutch environment, accept and understand local laws, traditions, and cultural features and be in touch with their own culture.

4. To help Dutch cultural institutions to connect with Ukrainian institutions and vice versa.

5. To help Ukrainian artists in crisis time.

6. To preserve Ukrainian culture and heritage which is now under threat.

our team

Sukhjeet Reehal
Mariana Dzulai
Founder
Marianna Dzulai is a Ukrainian curator, art manager, and gallery director. She has been working in the art field in Ukraine for almost 30 years.She has have a great deal of experience in establishing creative spaces and extensive networking, which makes my position unique. Marianna organized about 100 exhibitions of contemporary Ukrainian artists, 3 multicultural festivals, and 2 art fairs in Ukraine. She also worked with UNESCO’s central office in Paris, with embassies, the Ukrainian Ministry of cultural affairs, and the Ministry of foreign affairs. I’ve organized several exhibitions in New York and an art project about the Russian war in Ukraine in Sicily (2015). In the Netherlands, she found like-minded Ukrainian people and we joined a team.

Olena Voronko

Olena Voronko
Founder
Olena has been working as a chief of the Theatrical Department (2005 -2019) in the Ministry of Culture of Ukraine. All of us have a lot of experience and are very deeply immersed in the topic of Ukrainian-Dutch relations, striving to develop and mutually enrich our cultures.
Board of Directors

Dolf van Omme, Chairman

Viktoriia Gryshko, Secretary

Vira Kartseva, Treasurer

ANBI status

We are non-profit organization, aspiring to ANBI status. The current ANBI application is pending.

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