With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

RICH MEDINA (USA)

On October the 21th 2019, we invited DJ, Producer & Lecturer Rich Medina (USA) for a talk about HipHop beyond the elements.

Rich Medina is a renowned DJ, producer, and spoken word artist known for his influential contributions to the music scene. In the late 1980s, Medina began DJing, honing his skills and building a reputation for his diverse selections and seamless mixes. He gained recognition for his DJing in New York City clubs and parties.

Medina’s passion for music expanded beyond DJing. He started hosting events, such as the popular “Jump N’ Funk” parties, dedicated to celebrating the music of Fela Kuti and the Afrobeat genre. These events showcased his deep knowledge and appreciation for African music and its influence on global sounds. Alongside his DJ career, Medina has also released original music and remixes. He collaborated with various artists and producers, infusing his unique style into his productions. His work has received critical acclaim and resonated with music lovers worldwide.

In addition to his DJing and music production, Medina is an accomplished, spoken word artist. He has performed at numerous venues, delivering powerful and thought-provoking poetry that reflects his experiences, observations, and social consciousness. Rich Medina’s impact on the music industry extends beyond his performances. He is celebrated for his role in preserving and promoting diverse musical cultures and genres.

Watch the full Powertalk below!

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

ASTRID ELBURG

On October the 21th, 2019 we invited Astrid Elburg known as consultant & coach at Elburg Consultancy. She supports corporations with the development of strategic, ethical and personal leadership. She joined us for a talk about developing your own style of leadership and overcoming obstacles

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

We kicked off Tuff Times ’21 with two Powertalks. Both talks discussed and delved deeper into important topics. We were blessed with exceptional guests who were insightful, inspiring and had a hopeful outlook.

Simone Zeefuik and Ernestine Comvalius came through with the special Christmas message we need. Simone shares her thoughts and insights about Black joy, increased representation of dark-skinned Black folks, spirituality, intergenerational conversations and the illegalization of people. Don’t miss out, it’s a way to practice self-care!

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

We kicked off Tuff Times ’21 with two Powertalks. Both talks discussed and delved deeper into important topics. We were blessed with exceptional guests who were insightful, inspiring and had a hopeful outlook.

Powertalk: Power Moves in Media 2020 inspired serious power moves in media. Zaïre Krieger hosted a Powertalk about representation, claiming space and telling your own story with exceptional guests Ivette Forster from Omroep X, Shay Kreuger and Hesdy Lonwijk.

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

On March 9th we invited Ryan ‘ Future’ Webb en Rashaad Pearson (USA) – known as popping dancers and leaders of the Funk In Focus movement for a talk with us about Nurture or Vulture: How to separate the chiefs from the thieves?

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

Afaina de Jong

On March 9th, 2019 we invited Architect Afaina de Jong for a talk on pushing boundaries, questioning norms, and fostering dialogue about the role of design and urban spaces in contemporary society.

Afaina de Jong is a multidisciplinary artist, architect, and cultural critic known for her thought-provoking work that explores urbanism, architecture, and social issues. While there isn’t an extensive amount of information available about Afaina de Jong, she has made significant contributions to the fields of art, design, and cultural discourse.

De Jong co-founded the architecture studio AFARAI with her partner, Ralph Nauta. Through AFARAI, she has worked on various architectural and design projects, focusing on the intersection of art, architecture, and social engagement. Aside from her architectural practice, de Jong is known for her critical writing and cultural commentary. She has contributed to publications, participated in panel discussions, and engaged in public discourse surrounding architecture, urbanism, and cultural topics. Her writings often provide insightful perspectives on the relationship between society, architecture, and the urban fabric.

Watch the Powertalk below!

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

M1

On September 1st, 2019 we invited M1 of dead prez – known for their political ideology and message of social justice, wellness and wholeness – for a talk with us about the bigger impact of hip hop.

Mitchell Esajas of The Black Archives was the host and moderator for a conversation on power dynamics, claiming space and ownership. This PowerTalk was part of a double bill, a collaboration with The Black Archives and Patta.

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

EDSON SABAJO

On February 10, 2019, we invited Edson Sabajo to share his experiences as an entrepreneur and how to stay true to your roots and values.

Edson Sabajo is a prominent figure in the music and fashion industries, best known as the co-founder of the influential streetwear store Patta. Born in Suriname on February 29, 1972, Sabajo moved to the Netherlands at a young age. In the early 1990s, he became deeply involved in Amsterdam’s burgeoning hip-hop scene.

Sabajo’s passion for music led him to DJing and organizing parties, where he played an essential role in introducing hip-hop culture to the Dutch scene. Alongside his music endeavors, Sabajo had a keen interest in fashion and streetwear, which eventually led him to co-found Patta in 2004.

Patta quickly gained recognition as a groundbreaking store that bridged the gap between streetwear, fashion, and sneakers. With its curated selection of exclusive releases and collaborations, Patta became a go-to destination for sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts alike. Sabajo’s vision and curation played a vital role in establishing Patta as a global streetwear authority.

With his passion for music, Sabajo also pursued DJing and music production, often incorporating diverse sounds and genres into his sets. He remains an influential figure in the music scene, bringing his distinctive taste and energy to performances and events.

Watch the Powertalk below!

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk ‘Power Moves in Media’ with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

About the talk

On October 15, 2019, we hosted a conversation between two heavyweights Greg Tate & Rich Medina. Andrew Makkinga was the moderator and the focus of the conversation was endurance: how do you build a sustainable practice in hip-hop culture? How do we keep growing and keep changing the game while staying healthy?

Special thanks to John Agesilas and Wereldmuseum.

Greg Tate (US)

Greg Tate is a writer, musician, and cultural critic known for his contributions to African-American art, music, and literature. Born on February 20, 1959, in Dayton, Ohio, Tate emerged as a prominent figure in the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly through his work as a writer and critic for publications such as The Village Voice.

Tate’s writing encompasses a broad range of topics, including music, literature, visual arts, and cultural criticism. He has an extensive body of work that delves into the intersections of race, identity, and popular culture, with a particular focus on African-American music genres like jazz, hip-hop, and funk. His writing style is characterized by a unique blend of sharp analysis, poetic prose, and a deep understanding of the socio-political contexts in which artistic expressions evolve.

Aside from his writing, Tate is also an accomplished musician and a founding member of the Black Rock Coalition, an organization dedicated to supporting and promoting black artists in rock music. He has collaborated with various musicians and bands, incorporating elements of rock, funk, and jazz into his musical compositions.

Greg Tate’s work has garnered critical acclaim and has had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape. His writings and insights have influenced and inspired generations of artists, writers, and scholars, opening up new avenues for understanding and appreciating African-American art and culture.

Rich Medina (USA)

On October the 21th 2019, we invited DJ, Producer & Lecturer Rich Medina (USA) for a talk about HipHop beyond the elements.

Rich Medina is a renowned DJ, producer, and spoken word artist known for his influential contributions to the music scene. In the late 1980s, Medina began DJing, honing his skills and building a reputation for his diverse selections and seamless mixes. He gained recognition for his DJing in New York City clubs and parties.

Medina’s passion for music expanded beyond DJing. He started hosting events, such as the popular “Jump N’ Funk” parties, dedicated to celebrating the music of Fela Kuti and the Afrobeat genre. These events showcased his deep knowledge and appreciation for African music and its influence on global sounds. Alongside his DJ career, Medina has also released original music and remixes. He collaborated with various artists and producers, infusing his unique style into his productions. His work has received critical acclaim and resonated with music lovers worldwide.

In addition to his DJing and music production, Medina is an accomplished, spoken word artist. He has performed at numerous venues, delivering powerful and thought-provoking poetry that reflects his experiences, observations, and social consciousness. Rich Medina’s impact on the music industry extends beyond his performances. He is celebrated for his role in preserving and promoting diverse musical cultures and genres.

Watch the full Powertalk below!