paroolSep 29, 2026, 17:05

Leefkringhuis founder Paul Scheerder (80) dies: 'He meant so much to Noord'

Paul Scheerder, the founder of the Amsterdam-Noord community organization Leefkringhuis, has passed away at age 80. He was widely recognized for his decades of dedication to helping vulnerable families with housing, debt, and essential social support.

Paul Scheerder, the founder of the Leefkringhuis in Amsterdam-Noord, has passed away at the age of 80. Forty years ago, Scheerder established the organization after observing that many children in the Vogelbuurt area lacked stable housing. The center became a vital community hub, offering support with debt, housing, form filling, and operating food banks. Known for his hands-on approach, Scheerder gained national recognition for his role in the documentary series Schuldig, where he acted as an advocate for impoverished families in the district. After his conversion to Islam, he became known as Said. Despite facing financial difficulties with his organization in 2017 which led to his departure, he later served on the district committee for the Labour Party. Local officials have praised his lasting impact on the neighborhood. A farewell service is scheduled for September 30 at the El Mouhssininne mosque, followed by a memorial gathering at the Leefkringhuis.

Culture Amsterdam

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

This UvA program now bans screens during lectures: 'The entire learning environment is improving'

The Interdisciplinary Social Science program at the University of Amsterdam has banned screens during lectures to reduce student distractions and improve focus. While some students have expressed mixed reactions, the department allows exceptions for those with medical needs and encourages a collaborative learning environment.

Keep your hands off our texts: writers demonstrate at Meta's Dutch office against unlawful copying and distribution of texts

Journalists, writers, and translators protested at the Dutch headquarters of Meta on Tuesday to oppose the use of their copyrighted texts for training AI models. The participants demanded an end to unauthorized data scraping, arguing that their creative work should not be used for technological advancement without their consent.

Video | First footage of historical film Spinoza in 17th-century Amsterdam

The first footage of the historical film Spinoza has been released, showcasing 17th-century Amsterdam. The movie, which is the final work of the late director Rudolf van den Berg, is scheduled to premiere on November 19, 2026.

There is always room for a chat at neighbor Annemieke’s: 'You take care of each other'

Annemieke van der Graaf fosters community spirit in Amsterdam's Betondorp neighborhood through initiatives like an open garden, a plant library, and neighborhood benches. Her efforts aim to combat loneliness and build a strong, supportive social network among diverse residents.

Halsema wrote letter to rapper Ye: 'Please leave Amsterdam'

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema sent a letter to rapper Ye during his stay in the city, asking him to leave following his controversial performances in Arnhem. Although authorities and the courts allowed the concerts to proceed despite public outcry, the mayor sought to express her disapproval of the artist's history of antisemitic statements.