Afaina de Jong

With the Powertalk format, we create a safer space in which players from different generations are brought together to have conversations and discussions, share knowledge, experiences and practical tools to deal with different situations and power dynamics within the cultural sector. We strive to unite cultural leaders and game changers and as a community to increase our self-awareness, share strategies and knowledge as bicultural creatives and how we can take responsibility for this.

In collaboration with the VSB fund, we first conducted a pilot from 2018 to 2020 to develop the Powertalk concept. The focus in this pilot was mainly on bringing together community leaders who move within the cultural scene in Rotterdam to discuss ownership, power dynamics and claiming space. As part of this pilot we invited inspirational speakers Rich Medina, Astrid elburg, Edson Sabajo, Afaina de Jong, Wayne Modest, Sylvana Simons, Emory Douglas and Guillaume Philibert.

After the pilot ended in 2020, we have further developed the Powertalk format to not only reach local community leaders but also involve national community leaders. In the period 2021-2023 we invited, among others, Lynnée Denise (US), Kelechi Okafor (UK), Adreinne Waheed (US), Jonathan McCrory (US), Lakwena Maciver (UK) and CR Capers (US). In addition, Zaïre Krieger hosted the Power Talk 'Power Moves in Media' with speakers Hesdy Lonwijk, Shay Kreuger and Ivette Forster.

Afaina de Jong

On March 9th, 2019 we invited Architect Afaina de Jong for a talk on pushing boundaries, questioning norms, and fostering dialogue about the role of design and urban spaces in contemporary society.

Afaina de Jong is a multidisciplinary artist, architect, and cultural critic known for her thought-provoking work that explores urbanism, architecture, and social issues. While there isn't an extensive amount of information available about Afaina de Jong, she has made significant contributions to the fields of art, design, and cultural discourse.

De Jong co-founded the architecture studio AFARAI with her partner, Ralph Nauta. Through AFARAI, she has worked on various architectural and design projects, focusing on the intersection of art, architecture, and social engagement. Aside from her architectural practice, de Jong is known for her critical writing and cultural commentary. She has contributed to publications, participated in panel discussions, and engaged in public discourse surrounding architecture, urbanism, and cultural topics. Her writings often provide insightful perspectives on the relationship between society, architecture, and the urban fabric.

Watch the Powertalk below!