In addition to her creative activities, Dalal follows the Water and Sustainable Development study at the University in Delft. She tries to spend her time as useful as possible, but also sees that many fellow residents struggle with the uncertainty. “We need activities here,” she says. “Hobbies give structure, and offer a chance to talk to each other.”
And the COA sees that too. To keep the peace on the ships and to combat boredom, various activities are organized. For example, the boring wooden furniture on the quay is now painted with bright colors.
Less alone
Dalal hopes that she can leave the boat within a year to settle definitively in the Netherlands. Until then she tries to make life on the boat bearable.
According to Dalal, sharing experiences is important. “People here have experienced a lot. By crafting together or just talking, we feel a little less alone.”