Students from CIOS Heerenveen were the first to experience it on Friday, 15 May: the very first online workshop organised by the John Blankenstein Foundation.

After the country went into an intelligent lockdown, many of the John Blankenstein Foundation's activities could no longer take place. A large number of workshops had to be postponed until further notice. In order to avoid coming to a complete standstill and to keep up with the times, contact was made with CIOS Heerenveen to investigate whether the workshop could also be given online.

Workshop leaders Thijs de Greeff and Casper Boom got to work and, with the excellent cooperation of CIOS teacher and international korfball player Jelmer Jonker, made all the necessary preparations. Friday 15 May was the big day. Fourteen motivated students took part in an online workshop that addressed various themes that can promote diversity and inclusivity in sport. The workshop also focused explicitly on the role of the student as a future professional.
This led to some wonderful conversations and discussions in which the students were very engaged, open and honest.

Although there had been some initial concerns about whether and how an online workshop would be received, these fears proved to be unfounded. Participation was good, and there was plenty of room for dialogue and interaction, just like in an on-site workshop. All in all, it was a very useful and positive afternoon, definitely worth repeating.

The John Blankenstein Foundation has added another new tool to its arsenal! So don't hesitate to use it, even in these times. submit an application to us!