Member in the Spotlight

In the section “Member in the Spotlight” we regularly put one of our special members in the spotlight. This section offers a glimpse into the personal stories and passions of our members. Read the full interview with Sarah below and discover more about the people who make COC Haaglanden so special.

1. What is your name and age?

I am Sarah (who/whom), 22 years old.

2. What does COC Haaglanden mean to you? 

A place with super cool people who look out for each other and work together to make the world a little better. I enjoy all the great conversations I've had in the COC cafe, the briefings I've given with wonderful people, and the passion that radiates from everyone in COC Haaglanden.

3. How long have you been involved with COC Haaglanden and how active are you? 

I have been active as an information officer since April 2023. I enjoy standing in front of classes and at markets. It is a gift to have conversations with so many different people in The Hague about such a personal and complex subject. Since September last year, I also started with the international information team. Together we set up a network of international schools and were also allowed to give our first information sessions. I also sometimes participate in activities such as this year's Pride Walk where I had to put the entire procession in the right order (absolute chaos).

4. Which song is number 1 on your Pride Playlist?

Femininomenon – Chappell Roan

5. What do you think is the coolest thing you've ever done? 

From a young age I continue to pursue my ideals and try to make my dreams come true, even if others say it is unrealistic. 

6. If you could be anything, what would you choose? 

As a child I wanted to become Minister of Education, Culture and Science because then I could really change education. While my dream to change education is still the same, I no longer want to become a minister. Now I plan to be a mix of activist, researcher and teacher and hopefully contribute to our society. (For the imaginative among us, the answer is a fairy, because then I can fly and do magic.)

7. Do you do sports and if so, what? 

Yep! I do all sorts of things. It changes every few months. Right now I'm dancing a lot. I also like running, swimming, and cycling. 

8. What is your favorite book or movie and why? 

My favorite book is Freshwater (nl. Zoetwater) by Akwaeke Emezi. This book is unlike any other book I have ever read. It takes you into the life of Ada, told from the perspective of different parts of her broken self. Emezi tells an imaginative yet realistic story about identity, sexuality, trauma, brokenness, and mental struggle with yourself. From the first page it was a bizarre story that took me further into the story with every sentence. Yet I have never read such a sincere wording about the struggle in your head and the search for yourself. Something I could really identify with. A must-read for anyone who wants to read queer literature.

9. Who would you like to pass the baton to?

I would like to pass the baton to Levi (from Jong&Out and the information team).