Ode to Talita Keerveld | A better world for everyone

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Talita is actually Yvonne Mildert Keerveld's nickname. However, the name Talita has a deep meaning for her, one that radiates strength and inspiration. The name Talitha comes from the Bible, specifically from Mark 5:41, where Jesus says to a girl: “Talitha kumi”, which means “girl, get up” or “you are not dead, you are alive”. This meaning has strongly shaped Talita's life and her view of the world.

The beginning of life and the struggle to survive

Talita came to the Netherlands in 1978 or 1979. She had to endure a lot to get a residence permit; as a migrant, she had to find work within three months. That's how her new life began. One major challenge for her was that she could only bring one of her two children to the Netherlands. She brought her youngest daughter, who was 8 or 9 months old, while her son stayed with her parents in Surinam. Today, her son is 50 and her daughter is 46.

Her biggest challenge was building a new life in Amsterdam and finding a way to make an impact in the city she now considered her home. Talita has a strong bond with Amsterdam. Her love for the city stems from her belief that Amsterdam should be clean, safe and whole. She considers herself a “true Amsterdammer” and has contributed a great deal to the community of Amsterdam Zuidoost. She has worked in a textile shop, but is best known as a tram conductor. She was called the “singing conductor” because she regularly sang songs for the passengers.

Talita is committed to keeping the city clean and ensuring safety. She takes photos on the street and works closely with the municipality and other local institutions to keep the streets clean and contribute to a safe environment. She is often recognized in the city and her efforts are appreciated. “Most people know me as Talita from Southeast,” she says.

Entering politics and overcoming obstacles
 

A turning point in her life came when Talita decided to become active in politics. She was approached to participate in local politics, and after some consideration she decided to accept. She was elected and served as a committee member for four years. Talita was a member of the PvdA (Labor Party) and her political inspiration was Joop den Uyl, the former Dutch prime minister.
 

Talita has always fought for the empowerment of women. She has been active in various projects that support young people and women, and she has worked for social change. She is a bridge builder and strives for more solidarity in society. Talita is best known for her work for the community in Amsterdam Zuidoost, but she is also active in other neighborhoods.

Fighting for peace and security
 

Talita's most important goal is to create a world and a city where peace and security prevail. She hopes that weapons will no longer be used and that people will resolve conflicts with words instead of violence. Her message is clear: the world needs love and respect, and we must value each other as people. Talita advocates for a society in which we do not kill each other, but respect each other.
 

Her mother's influence

The greatest influence in Talita's life is her mother. Her mother always sent her letters with Bible verses and words of encouragement. Talita has always benefited greatly from her mother's love and faith. When Talita finally made her confession of faith in church, she felt a deep sense of gratitude. She is grateful for everything her mother has given her and how it has enriched her life.
 

Talita's life is a story of determination, resilience and love. Through her involvement in politics, her commitment to the community and her dedication to peace and security, Talita has had a lasting impact on her city and the people around her. Her story is one of hope, change and the desire for a better world for all.