WITH OPEN HEARTS AND OPEN HORIZONS

This summer something truly special happened. From June 30 to July 4 a group of 38 bright, curious, and adventurous Ukrainian children from different locations came together in the Netherlands for a Summer Camp—and what a journey it was! Four teams collaborated together with the support of Damen Helpt Foundation, Damen Maaskant in Stellendam, the Help Ukrainians Association, and MDEM Intl. teams to create an unforgettable Summer Adventure, turning dreams into reality for Ukrainian children! This became possible thanks to the generous support of the partners: Van der Leun Romania, Alewijnse, Francu Group, Marine Engineering, DWR, and DSGa. Due to the complex global situation related to NGO financing, there were serious doubts about whether the camp could take place this year. In that moment of uncertainty, it was Annelies Damen who firmly supported moving forward and making it happen in the Netherlands to ensure that Ukrainian children would still have access to opportunities for growth, learning, and inspiration. What truly sets this camp apart is that it is a professionally oriented, educational initiative designed to broaden horizons, spark curiosity, and help children imagine their future beyond today’s challenges.

This year’s Summer Camp adventure began long before the first activity—with a complex and carefully coordinated travel plan that brought together children from across three countries. Four groups of campers, each led by a dedicated camp leader, made their way to the Netherlands from different corners of Ukraine, Poland, and Romania. After arriving in Gorinchem, the campers were warmly welcomed by Jasmijn van der Werf, who gave them a short rest and then led them on a tour of the city’s most charming spots. The excitement was just beginning!

Day one at Damen Maaskant shipyard: Ukrainian campers dove into fishing vessels and sustainable seafood. Managing Director Eric Moerkerk and key Damen leaders welcomed the group, sharing Damen Maaskant’s mission of building future-proof, low-emission fishing vessels. A Damen Sales Director highlighted the company’s long connection with Ukraine. Kids then explored real fishing vessels, learned about their operation, and received their first group project task.

After a restful night at Port Zélande Holiday Village, campers enjoyed a relaxing morning at the beach, swimming, playing, and soaking up the sun.

Afternoon brought a Portlantis Boat Tour in Rotterdam with Helma Hollaar and Leonie Schimmer. Campers witnessed the massive scale of one of the world’s busiest ports, spotting towering cranes, huge container ships, and even a sea lion. The day ended with a barbecue back at Damen Maaskant.

Day three started with a team-building adventure at Zeeland Buitenland outdoor park. Campers ran, jumped, and canoed through creeks and islands. They enjoyed lunch overlooking the Grevelingen lagoon with organizers and Anne-Carline van Lankeren.

The afternoon focused on creativity at Port Zélande’s Innovation Lab. Teams designed sustainable solutions for the fishing or aquaculture industry, tackling challenges like overfishing and pollution, inspired by Damen Maaskant. Stef Kapteijn provided valuable feedback. The evening featured a fun pasta carbonara cook-off.

The final day was magical in Yerseke, Zeeland’s oyster and mussel village. Aboard an oyster boat with Stef Kapteijn, Rebecca van den Berg, and Caroline Melissant, campers learned about oyster cultivation. Many tasted their first oyster, fresh from the sea.

During the farewell barbecue, children received a personal video message from Annelies Damen, shared by Stephanie Kreukniet. Her heartfelt words deeply touched the campers. We extend immense thanks to the Damen Helpt Foundation and Annelies Damen personally for making this unforgettable camp possible. Their vision, generosity, and dedication to supporting Ukrainian families through education and joy left a lasting impact.

This camp was more than a getaway; it was a week of learning, laughter, teamwork, and cultural exchange. Our deepest gratitude goes to Damen Maaskant Shipyard for their incredible hospitality, guidance, and unwavering support, opening their doors and hearts to the next generation.