Brussels. –The Embassy of the Dominican Republic to the Kingdom of Belgium, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Mission to the European Union, held an emotional event to recognize thirteen prominent members of the Dominican community in both countries, within the framework of the conclusion of the first season of its initiative “A Coffee at the Embassy” presented through the embassy’s YouTube platform.
This initiative was created in compliance with one of the pillars of the Dominican Government’s foreign policy: strengthening ties with our foreign community, promoting national identity and a sense of belonging. Its objective is to highlight the work and contribution of members of our national community both in Belgium and Luxembourg, who represent an example of the industriousness and solidarity that characterizes us as a people, highlighting their commitment to the values of Dominicanness.
In “A coffee at the embassy” the guests share their stories as migrants, highlighting the sacrifices and dedication that have made them leaders of the Dominican contribution in their host countries. The initiative was the idea of the First Secretary, Yomaira López, together with Ambassador Iván Ogando Lora, as a channel to have a closer relationship with the Dominican diaspora through inspiring stories.
The event took place at La Maison du Spectacle « La Bellone », an emblematic cultural space founded by the Belgian painter and set designer Serge Creuz.
A total of thirteen people were interviewed throughout the year in the different editions of “A Coffee at the Embassy”, each from different fields and with diverse trajectories, but with the common denominator of having a work legacy that reflects the identity and the spirit of the Dominican diaspora in this part of Europe.
In the presentation, Ambassador Ogando Lora stated that the stories of Dominican migrants are full of heroism and that there are as many stories worth telling as there are Dominicans residing in these lands, so the work must continue to recognize them and serve as an example. and inspiration.
The event had the collaboration of Café Santo Domingo, which accompanied each episode of the series, giving the interviewees a touch of Dominican flavor. Likewise, Air Europa collaborated in carrying out this initiative, strengthening the links between the community and its homeland. The embassy extends its gratitude to both companies for their commitment and support.
To learn about the stories of the honorees, you are invited to watch the episodes of “A Coffee at the Embassy” on the YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@rdenbelgica.