Zoetermeer Honors Its Volunteers
During a festive gathering at the City Hall Forum on Wednesday evening, October 13, the Zoetermeer Volunteer Awards and the “Volunteers in the Spotlight” photography awards were finally presented. With these awards, the municipality honors residents and organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to the city and its residents.
The photo contest was organized to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the “Zoetermeer voor elkaar” platform and to capture volunteer work in Zoetermeer in a special way. Because the theme of the photo contest also focused on volunteer work, it was decided to hold both award ceremonies during a single joint evening.
With this festive evening, the city wants to show its deep appreciation for the many volunteers in Zoetermeer. Councilwoman Véronique Frinking: “Volunteers dedicate themselves to others day in and day out, often without expecting anything in return. These are people who keep clubs running, help a neighbor, organize activities, or support residents who could use a little extra help. With their time, energy, and dedication, volunteers make a real difference. And I have enormous appreciation for that.”
The awards ceremony was originally scheduled to take place during the New Year’s performance, but that event was canceled due to severe icy conditions. Unfortunately, the nominees had to be very patient, but yesterday was finally the big moment for the awards ceremony.
With chairperson Vida Niazian presiding, the various categories were announced, after which Councilwoman Véronique Frinking revealed the winners. On behalf of Zoetermeer’s city poet, Colin Knoester, a poem written especially for the volunteers was recited, celebrating the valuable volunteer work in Zoetermeer.
And the winners are...
Winners of the 2026 Volunteer Awards
- Young Volunteer of the Year: Fro Hadi (Piezo)
- Volunteer of the Year: Ineke Damen (Fietsmaatjes)
- Volunteer Organization of the Year: Scouting John McCormick
Winners of the "Volunteers in the Spotlight" Photo Contest
- 1st Prize: Hans Spil (de Zoete Aarde)
- 2nd prize: Suzan Davis-Güngör (Hedgehog Rescue Foundation)
- 3rd prize: Hans Spil (de Zoete Aarde)
