Lelystad Speaks: stories that connect

Seven residents from Lelystad East opened the door to their lives at the first edition of Lelystad Spreekt on 17 December. In an intimate, living room-like setting in community centre Zuiderzee, they shared personal stories that touch, inspire and connect. A living library, as quartermaster Jennifer Daal aptly described it.

An evening full of emotions and courage

'Just like in a regular library, you don't borrow a book here but a story. A story lived with all the highs and lows that come with it.' The evening brought a colourful mix of emotions: from humour to raw, sweeping experiences. From profound life changes to hopeful new steps: residents told of resilience, identity, loss and recovery. Their stories were about starting again after burnout, overcoming setbacks like homelessness and depression, personal quests from Latin America to Lelystad, and new adventures like going on holiday alone. Each story offered a unique look at courage and perseverance.

Each of these were stories that required courage and evoked recognition from the audience. 'The great thing about sharing stories is that you always recognise something of yourself in them,' Jennifer said. Councillor Sjaak Kruis agreed: 'I did recognise myself in every story.' He had a personal word for each participant: 'Thank you for sharing your story: I loved it!'

Coaching and preparation

The participants - Rudolf, Lucian, Kyra, Titia, Samantha, Juul Baars and Joël - were coached beforehand by former city poet Juul Baars, who also shared his own story. Singer-songwriter Joël provided a special musical contribution with his own story and songs.

Their journey began weeks earlier with three rehearsals in November, where they learned how to tell their story powerfully. Together they formed a tight-knit group, enjoying Surinamese noodles and nasi along with volunteers prior to the event. It gave the evening a warm, connecting atmosphere.

Part of Samen Lelystad Oost

Lelystad Spreekt was implemented within the Samen Lelystad Oost programme and has one goal: to bring people closer together. And it succeeded. 'You just have to dare to do this, don't you? But these people did it', Jennifer looks back with pride. It was an evening full of courage, warmth and recognition. A first edition that tastes like more.