An evening of recognition, inspiration, and renewed social energy
On March 9th, a special Top 50 of women was presented in Leiden: women who make a difference in our city. Women who are passionately committed to various sectors such as volunteering, education, government, culture, and business. Women who are building a city where engagement, solidarity, and progress are central.
We are very proud to announce that our chairwoman Saba Alhatra has been selected as one of these inspiring Top 50 women of Leiden. As chairwoman of the Leids Steunloket Migranten (LSM), Saba has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to numerous initiatives in recent years that make our city stronger, more inclusive, and more socially engaged. Under her leadership, LSM has developed and strengthened a wide range of projects, including:
• The Education Bridge – free tutoring for young people aged 9 to 20, creating opportunities for them and their parents;
• Empowerment projects that empower people and give them the space to express their talents and voices; • Empowerment space, World Kitchen, and social catering, where connection, encounters, culture, music, and conviviality converge;
• The Multilingual Energy Helpdesk, where residents are assisted with energy conservation and with questions about a fair energy transition;
• Deployment as an energy coach for households in need of support;
• Multilingual initiatives for a vibrant local democracy, where residents can actively contribute their ideas and participate, bridging the gap between residents and the political process;
• The LSM consultation hour and reporting desk, where people can go for help, advice, and guidance.
This recognition is not only an appreciation for our chairwoman, but also for the mission and vision of LSM and the dedication of all volunteers, staff, and partners who have dedicated themselves to a just and inclusive society over the past six years.
The Leiden Migrant Support Center (LSM) is a dynamic organization that is constantly evolving. We offer accessible help and support to vulnerable groups in a variety of areas, such as legislation and regulations, residence permits, humanitarian issues, poverty reduction, a fair energy transition, equal treatment, combating racism, and strengthening local democracy. With our multilingual services, we bridge cultural and legal gaps. Through translations, guidance, and clear explanations, we ensure that everyone has access to the information and support they need to fully participate in society.
At LSM, we are building a new form of participation and integration. Not just as a project, but as a social movement: a new wave in society where people feel free to share their opinions, think together, take responsibility, and actively contribute to their city and neighborhood. A movement that connects, inspires, and is forward-looking.
The evening of March 9th was a wonderful evening of encounters, inspiration, and connection. We are proud of our city of Leiden and the Top 50 Women initiative, which offers space for ideas, dialogue, and collaboration. It creates a platform for knowledge sharing, new connections, and a platform where we can build an inclusive future together. Our sincere thanks to all the women in the Top 50 and to the organizers of this valuable initiative.
Together, we make Leiden warmer, more inclusive, and stronger.
