SONECA

About SONECA

The SONECA Foundation is an independent, national organisation that is committed to capacity building, community development and social participation, particularly of African communities in the Netherlands and Europe. The foundation focuses in particular on refugees and other vulnerable groups within these communities. Based on a strong commitment to social justice and an inclusive society, the SONECA Foundation works to strengthen self-organisations, support young people and promote sustainable cooperation between various population groups.
Goal and Mission
The goal of the SONECA Foundation is to promote an inclusive and just society in which African communities – particularly refugees – participate actively, equally and with confidence. Through support, training, coaching and policy advice, the foundation contributes to strengthening the social position of these communities. In its mission, SONECA strives to build bridges between the African diaspora and other population groups within the Netherlands and beyond.

The core of its mission rests on three pillars:

Capacity building of organizations and individuals

Society building and social cohesion

Stimulating participation and leadership of young people and refugees

🛠️ Activities and work
The SONECA Foundation offers a wide range of services and activities that contribute to the structural improvement of the social position of African communities:

Professional support for self-organizations
Support for African and refugee organizations in their organizational development, project design, policy making and cooperation. Think of training in leadership, fundraising, public administration, communication and volunteer management.

Youth programs
Development of participation-promoting activities for young people, such as training, intercultural exchanges, workshops and leadership programs, with a focus on empowerment and talent development.

Policy advice and consultation
Providing substantive and strategic advice to governments, welfare institutions and social organizations on diversity, inclusion, migration policy and intercultural communication.

Building bridges between communities
Initiating dialogues, networks and cooperation projects that contribute to mutual understanding and integration of the African community with other population groups in the Netherlands.

International cooperation
Participation in and coordination of European projects focused on migration, education, youth participation and intercultural exchange within African diaspora communities.

Research and knowledge sharing
Providing studies, analyses and publications focused on current themes within migrant and refugee communities.