“In Rotterdam, you can follow your dreams,” says Fulvio from São Tomé and Príncipe, a small island nation in Africa. She left her homeland in 2005 for Portugal, where she lived with family and studied. In 2010, she received an invitation to come to Rotterdam. “When I arrived here, I immediately felt at home. I saw a city with many cultures, friendly people, and opportunities. I also felt welcome right away because of the large Cape Verdean and Portuguese communities here.”
Nevertheless, her initial period in the Netherlands was not easy. “In the beginning, I had no home and no job. But if you know what you want and you respect the rules, you can do anything here.” She found support from the community, churches, and other migrants. That help was important for her start in Rotterdam.
Sharing cultures
Fulvio is still very enthusiastic about the city, starting with its diversity. “There are so many different cultures, foods, and music here. I love colorful festivals like the summer carnival.” She enjoys these because different nationalities share their cultures. Fulvio is active in the music scene herself and also wants to share her culture from São Tomé and Príncipe. “The music, the food, the dance. Everything.”
Making dreams come true
She also appreciates the Rotterdam mentality and the freedom. “If you respect the laws here and make an effort, you can be who you want to be. You can follow your dreams.”
Fulvio has many dreams. But one dream stands out above all others: “I want to grow my own business and use it to help people who have nothing—in Rotterdam and in my country.” She wants to support young people and families, give them opportunities, and inspire them. She believes in the power of community and the importance of dreams. “Believe in yourself. Believe in your dreams. And when you’ve achieved something, give something back. If we all do something for each other, the world will be a better place. I received help, now I want to give something back. That’s how we build a bright future together.”
Church and nature
When she is not at home, Fulvio likes to go to church or spend time in nature. “I also love the church and the water, nature. That’s where I feel at peace.” Every week, she visits a Catholic church in Blijdorp, where she feels connected to people and faith.
Fulvio loves Rotterdam, but there is room for improvement. “Rotterdam is already good. But there need to be more houses. There are too many people without homes.”
Do your research before you come
Fulvio has clear advice for people who want to come to Rotterdam: “Before you come, you should do your research. Learn about the culture, the rules, the people. Come visit for a few days first. Feel the energy of the city.”