Sharon Janmaat-Bouw is Senior Project Manager Economy within the 'Port' team of the Urban Development cluster of the municipality of Rotterdam. In this role, she works closely with the Port of Rotterdam Authority on various projects aimed at increasing sustainability and strengthening the connection between the city and the port. Her responsibilities cover all matters related to the labour market and education.

Wherever and in whatever form the sessions continue, Sharon believes it is imperative that there is a follow-up. ‘We have demonstrated that these sessions truly reach a new audience and contribute to a stronger connection between the city and the port. With the port moving further and further away from the city, it’s all the more important to continue investing in that connection. The population is declining in some municipalities around the port, but Rotterdam continues to grow. The port is essential to our daily lives: from the clothes we wear to the things we use and the food we eat – all of it comes through the port. The over 3,000 employers in the port are investing heavily in sustainability, process digitalisation and employment. You can enjoy great job satisfaction, earn a decent salary, and really make a difference working in the port. That’s something we could be prouder of at times.’

The municipality has launched the Werkstation op Zuid (South Workstation) in Feijenoord. This is where people must report to qualify for benefits, with the aim of helping them find work before their first payment is made. ‘We could hold the walk-in sessions there. The Werkstation has specialists experienced in holding conversations about work and career orientation. In addition, people who report to the Werkstation can participate in a bus trip to the port, where they visit two employers. This gives them a clear idea of what is actually happening at the port.’

The walk-in sessions initially drew considerable interest, but visitor numbers declined over time. Publicity remains a challenge, according to Sharon. ‘Not all neighbourhood residents know that the walk-in sessions exist, or they face barriers that prevent them from attending. We need to remain mindful of how we reach the target group if we choose to continue the sessions. Meanwhile, the pilot has been completed. We will meet with stakeholders for an evaluation in September. Whether and how we proceed will depend partly on the capacity the Port of Rotterdam Authority can make available. I do wonder whether we reach enough residents of Rotterdam South at this location. It might be worth considering continuing the walk-in sessions elsewhere, or turning them into travelling sessions. We will address that shortly during an informal meeting.’

According to Sharon, these conversations also helped to dispel or add nuance to existing prejudices and doubts. ‘People sometimes think that working in the port is, by definition, physically demanding or dirty. They’re also often unaware of the knowledge and skills required to work there. I recall a woman with an administrative background who had been out of the job market for some time. She thought the port was not for her. Nevertheless, we were able to place her in a great position as a planner at a company in the port. That really makes me feel good: knowing that you can help someone regain perspective and take positive steps forward.’