With Mensenkenners, we’ve developed a powerful and innovative training program that helps public and semi-public sector employees interact more inclusively with people with disabilities. In close collaboration with experience experts, we created a course that puts empathy at the center and shows that inclusion is not just an abstract ideal, but a practical skill—a muscle you can train.
The course consists of six accessible modules, featuring video stories from people with disabilities, hands-on exercises grounded in embodied learning, and practical tips for inclusive interaction. Thanks to its digital, modular setup, Mensenkenners is low-threshold, scalable, and affordable—making it suitable for a wide range of organizations.
We’re grateful that over 100 employees from organizations like the Municipality of Amsterdam, Paradiso, and Pride Amsterdam have already worked with the program. Participants reported becoming more aware of the daily obstacles people with disabilities face, and feeling better equipped to respond in a respectful and inclusive way.
A core principle of Mensenkenners is that people with disabilities are not just subjects of the training, but co-creators and trainers. Their perspectives and lived experiences are at the heart of the content. This not only makes the training more inclusive, but also more meaningful and impactful.
Being nominated for a Dutch Creativity Award means a great deal to us. It affirms that social design can play a vital role in driving real societal change. With Mensenkenners, we aim to show that creativity, collaboration, and honest stories can help shape a society where everyone feels welcome.
Want to learn more about the Dutch Creativity Awards or check out the other nominees? Visit dutchcreativityawards.nl.
