This work is created in collaboration
with International Futures Forum and financed by a grant of the Johnson & Johnson Foundation.
In the dynamic city of Antwerp, two accomplished doctors, Emir Celik and Lina Kaya, with roots in Turkey, have become prominent figures in their community, far beyond their medical practices. They spearhead the Civic Engagement Foundation, a sociocultural organization committed to encouraging participation and solidarity, particularly among migrants. "Our migrant background often leads to underestimation," they express.
Their insights are partly based on a survey among over four hundred Antwerp residents with a migrant background, which unveiled a notable cultural disconnect. The mainstream cultural offerings, largely unknown to these communities, didn't cater to their diverse preferences. Despite a willingness to engage with local culture, these residents found little that appealed to them, underscoring a gap between the cultural norms and the needs of diverse communities.
Emir Celik observes that while Antwerp and its cultural sector are generally considered progressive, they are not immune to hidden biases and blind spots. He remarks on the occasional superficial attempts at diversity, like importing foreign artists for appearances, while local talents in their own neighborhoods go unrecognized.
The disparities brought to light by the COVID-19 pandemic propelled both doctors to establish the Civic Engagement Foundation. Initially a solidarity movement, it has evolved into a broad socio-cultural entity.
"Civic Engagement Foundation aims for the full integration of migrant communities into our city's life," Emir explains. "Our initiatives span across education, healthcare, employment, and culture. It's our civic responsibility to ensure everyone's voice is heard and represented."
Lina Kaya emphasizes the foundation's ethos: "We're action-oriented and deeply involved in all our projects. Our personal investment in time and resources has built trust and inspired our volunteers."
Their dedication to inclusivity is exemplified by their approach to community projects. For instance, when they launched a community center in a local neighborhood, Lina ensured it was a welcoming space for all, avoiding the creation of an exclusive ethnic enclave. Inclusivity remains a cornerstone of their mission.
Now, three years in, the Civic Engagement Foundation is seeing the fruits of its labor with recent funding and organizational growth. They continue to challenge preconceived notions and systemic gaps. "We're not merely guests here; we bring valuable perspectives and solutions," Emir states. "We aim to reach those often overlooked, ensuring every resident of Antwerp is fully woven into the city's fabric."