Dear Ladies, gentlemen, beautiful and talented people,

My name is Ruben Brave, co-founder of the Dutch New Narrative Lab (DNNL), and I welcome you to the second edition of the DNNL UnConference!

First of all I would like to thank you for your presence. And special thanks to the DNNL unConference Organizing Committee consisting of Iffat Rose Gill, Maud van Merriënboer and Sacha Martina. I would also like to thank our hosts from Google Netherlands for welcoming us and making this event possible! Also therefore a shout-out to the wonderful people at Google, namely Arjan El Fassed, Alexandra Gschwind, Marcel Verboom, Nick Brandts, Isabelle Schamhart and Amhar Ford. Please give them all a big hand.

Today, as we gather here in Amsterdam for this DNNL UnConference, I can't help but draw a powerful connection between this significant day and the spirit of the 4th of July in the United States. Just as Americans celebrate their independence and the pursuit of freedom, we too gather here to champion a cause that resonates with the essence of the American dream – the creation of an authentic, inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Netherlands.

DNNL stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of all those involved.

We represent a movement that recognizes the inherent value of diversity and inclusion, acknowledging that true innovation and progress thrive when all voices are heard, irrespective of their background, gender, ethnicity, or orientation.

And in doing so, DNNL embarks on a mission to remove barriers and create equal opportunities for all underrepresented groups in the Dutch startup scene.

DNNL's three-fold approach – the ecosystem monitor, the entrepreneurial lab, and the media platform – encapsulates a holistic strategy to transform the landscape of innovation and entrepreneurship.

By acting as an ecosystem monitor, DNNL provides a thermometer to gauge the progress made towards diversity and inclusion within the Dutch startup world. It helps us assess our collective efforts, highlighting areas of success and identifying areas that require further attention. To keep the Netherlands in check, making sure we're really raising the diversity bar and not just sipping on champagne.

Moreover, DNNL's entrepreneurial lab serves as a breeding ground, an incubator, where entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds can harness the power of their unique perspectives and experiences. It recognizes that diversity is not just a social imperative but a wellspring of innovation, creativity, and competitiveness. By bringing together a rich tapestry (tapijtwerk of wandtapijt) of ideas, talents, and skills, this lab fuels the engine of progress, igniting a spirit of entrepreneurship that transcends boundaries and biases. To give all kinds of entrepreneurs, from underrepresented - and overrepresented groups - a chance to harness the superpower of diversity and inclusion.

Finally, through collaboration with various partners, DNNL aspires to build a media platform that challenges and reshapes the prevailing image of the "innovative entrepreneur." It seeks to celebrate the accomplishments of those who have traditionally been overlooked or marginalized. Painting a new narrative that showcases the brilliance and potential within each individual, regardless of their background. To change the dominant and often hindering image. It's about flipping the script on the "innovative entrepreneur" stereotype.

Today, as Americans celebrate the 4th of July and the aspirations of a united America, let us also celebrate the values that the DNNL UnConference represents.

Just as the founding fathers of the United States dared to dream of a nation founded on the principles of freedom, liberty, and equality, we too dare to dream of an entrepreneurial ecosystem that embodies those same principles. 

Let this day serve as a reminder of the power we hold within ourselves to drive meaningful change. Let us be inspired by the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us, and let us seize this opportunity to propel the Dutch startup scene towards a future that is inclusive, vibrant, and prosperous. It's about turning the Netherlands into an entrepreneurial place where everyone feels welcome, where diversity isn't just a buzzword but a superpower.

As we raise our glasses and light up the sky with our dreams and ambitions, let's remember that today is about more than just a date on the calendar. As we embark on this shared journey, let us remember the spirit of the 4th of July and the ideals it represents….although “this is not America". May we continue to strive for a future where the entrepreneurial landscape is transformed, where opportunities abound for every individual with the passion and vision to make their mark.

Together, we can move the needle, break down barriers, and foster a community where all entrepreneurs, regardless of their background, have an equal opportunity to shine. Together, we can create an ecosystem that cherishes and harnesses the hidden gem of diversity and inclusion. And together, we can forge economic ties that empower and uplift not only the Netherlands but also the wider Benelux, Europe and beyond.

Because when we come together, united by the power of diversity, there's no limit to what we can achieve.

May this DNNL unConference be a catalyst - a spark - for change and a beacon of hope for a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow.

Thank you for your attention.