In a suburb of Groningen stands an unassuming business complex. But the moment Brother Tuck steps into the workshop of Vanhulley, everything changes.
In the showroom, bags made from old banners immediately catch the eye. One in particular stands out: a pop art inspired bag featuring a large female eye.
Then he comes face to face with Fatima, one of the employees. Together with director Jolijn, she tells Brother Tuck what makes this place so special.
The Story of Vanhulley
At Vanhulley, both textiles and women are given a second chance. Here, women learn a craft, develop skills that help them become stronger and more independent in society, and build a better future for themselves.
With care and creativity, they transform old corporate clothing and banners into new, sustainable products that are proudly used and worn once again.
And for office based companies, there is an opportunity to contribute too. Using surplus materials from Ahrend Gispen, the impact makers at Vanhulley create stylish circular products.
From old to new, from discarded to valuable, that is Vanhulley.
The Story of Fatima
Fatima was born in Somalia but has lived in the Netherlands since the age of six. Because of an extremely unsafe family situation, she moved to Groningen with her sister. The difficult years that followed left their mark, including on her education. But in Groningen, Fatima found support, and that support eventually led her to Vanhulley.
After attending a coffee morning, she started talking with Jolijn. They immediately connected. A few months later, in September, she began her journey at Vanhulley.
Now, four months later, Fatima is a different person: a cheerful woman who enjoys sharing her story.
“The best thing about Vanhulley? We are truly a team. Everyone is there for one another,” says Fatima.
The sense of security and structure she found has restored her confidence in the future. And that future is clear to her: she wants to study so she can help people in unsafe situations find their place in society.
“I want to give something back because I have received so much support myself,” says Fatima.
And Groningen? That is where she plans to stay. Because here, people still greet one another and take the time for a conversation.
Another stereotype proven wrong.
5 Questions for Jolijn Creutzberg
- What would be the first thing you would do as Director of the UWV?
I would organise large gatherings where employees can engage directly with the people they are there to support. This would allow civil servants to experience firsthand who they are working for and help build mutual trust between UWV staff and the people they assist. - What is the secret behind Vanhulley?
Our three core values: courage, enjoyment, and ownership. We make sure these values are reflected in everything we do. This creates a working environment where everyone can be themselves and continue to develop. And when people grow, enjoyment naturally follows.
- What is the biggest mistake you have ever made?
A few years ago, I brought someone in from the corporate world to help Vanhulley grow. We had plans to open locations in Rotterdam and Amsterdam. But along the way, it became clear that not every manager is an entrepreneur. Someone who performs well within a corporate structure is not necessarily a pioneer who can build a new business from the ground up.
- What are you most proud of?
That we are still here! What started as an idea to turn old shirts into boxer shorts has grown into a solid company. With the help of others, we shifted our focus to the business market, ensuring a steady supply of materials and larger assignments. I look to the future of Vanhulley with confidence.
- Which Dutch celebrity would you most like to ask a question, and what would that question be?
I would like to ask Geert Wilders what he is afraid of. I find it difficult to understand how an intelligent man can believe that all problems will disappear if the borders are closed.
