Ode to Zefania Landburg | Go-getter in Amsterdam

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Zefania Landburg was born and raised in Amsterdam, a city she cherishes and which has deeply influenced her identity. “Amsterdam is my city. I will never leave,” she says with determination. The city's diversity, culture and lively dynamics have shaped and inspired her. Each district has its own character, providing a place for everyone to feel at home.

Despite the many opportunities that Amsterdam offers, Zefania also sees the challenges that the city faces. She notices how social differences and poverty are becoming increasingly visible on the streets. “Amsterdam is a city of many cultures, but also of contrasts,” she says. Yet she remains optimistic and driven to find her own way in this city that she loves so much.

A path full of ambition: from student to HR professional

Zefania has always had the ambition to develop professionally and make an impact in her work. She studied Hotel and Event Management at university of applied sciences level and then obtained a master's degree in Policy Communication and Organization at the VU University Amsterdam. She began her career in the HR sector, where she worked for a long time at an HR service provider.

Since November, she has been working for a foundation that is committed to special dentistry. Her current work is focused on supporting people who are afraid of dental treatments, children with special needs and people with disabilities. Within this organization she works in the HR department, where she passionately contributes to a social mission. “It is satisfying to work in an environment where you can really mean something to others,” she says.

Challenges as a black woman in Amsterdam

Although Amsterdam is known for its openness and opportunities, Zefania has faced challenges in her life that have made her path less straightforward. One of the first obstacles she encountered was getting a suitable school recommendation. She was given a lower recommendation than her potential, something that many young people from minority groups experience. “As a young person, you think: I'm going to study, work and build my career. But the reality is often different,” she says.

She also encountered difficulties in the labor market. Finding a job was not always easy, and at times she felt held back in her professional growth. “Sometimes you don't get the chance to grow, even though you know you have what it takes,” she says. Discrimination and racism also play a role, although they are not always openly discussed in Amsterdam. “We often think that Amsterdam is a city where everyone is equal, but in practice that is sometimes not the case.”

Despite the obstacles she encountered, Zefania continued to fight for her goals. “I have learned to never give up and to always believe in myself,” she says. Perseverance has become her driving force. Every setback has made her stronger and made her realize that success does not come easily. This perseverance has not only helped her in her own career, but also in the way she wants to inspire other women. “If you run into something, it doesn't mean you have to stop. It means you have to keep trying until you find the right path.”

One of the lessons Zefania has learned is the importance of networking and finding support in others. She strongly believes in the power of collaboration and shared experiences. “When women meet and share their stories, a sense of recognition and strength emerges,” she explains. Networking events, meetings and informal conversations can make a big difference. “It is important to know that you are not alone. There is always someone who has experienced something similar. We must continue to motivate and strengthen each other.”

Inspiring women in her life

When Zefania thinks about the women who have inspired her, she immediately mentions her mother and grandmother. “My mother and grandmother are strong women who have always supported me and taught me to believe in myself,” she says. Her nieces, aunts and childhood friends have also played an important role in her life. “Nowadays, I also draw inspiration from my daughters. I want to be strong for them, show them my ambitions. And also have a good relationship with my husband, their father. So that they feel good about themselves and can work on their dreams and goals too.”

In addition, she draws inspiration from women she has met at different stages of her life, from primary school to university and in her professional network. “Some friendships have lasted for years, and others are more recent. But what they have in common is that they inspire me and help me grow.”

A message for other women

Zefania's story is one of strength, perseverance and self-confidence. She wants to encourage other women to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they encounter. “Amsterdam offers opportunities, but you have to stay true to yourself and not get lost in the grandeur of the city,” she says.

Her journey shows that success does not only depend on talent or education, but also on resilience and perseverance. “Believe in yourself, seek support from others and never give up. You are stronger than you think.” With these words, Zefania hopes that her story will inspire other women to follow their own path and to continue fighting for their goals, regardless of the challenges that come their way.