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TOGETHER, UNITING FOR COLLECTIVE STRENGTH

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The Federation Afro Diaspora Network (FADN) was founded to connect, strengthen, and represent organizations, initiatives, and communities within the Afro-diaspora. We believe that lasting change is only possible when we join forces and speak with a single, unified voice.

FADN serves as a platform and link between civil society organizations, governments, and other stakeholders. By structuring collaborations and sharing knowledge, we increase our collective impact on themes such as heritage, social justice, education, culture, and social participation.

Together we work towards a strong, visible and future-proof position for the Afro-diaspora, locally, nationally and internationally.

The voice and power of the global Afro-community

The Federation Afro Diaspora Network (FADN) represents the collective voice of the Afro community worldwide. We bring together organizations, communities, cultural institutions, and professional networks of African descent to form a powerful collective that is heard and recognized.

A federation of organizations

The FADN is a federation. This means that only organizations can become members. Individuals cannot join the federation directly, but they can do so through our affiliated organizations. In this way, together we form a strong, representative, and broad voice for the entire Afro-diaspora.

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About Us

The Federation Afro Diaspora Network (FADN) is an international umbrella organization dedicated to representing, connecting, and strengthening organizations, initiatives, and communities of African descent worldwide. Based on a shared vision, we work to increase social impact, visibility, and structural influence.

With a special focus on the Netherlands, the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Suriname, FADN focuses on themes such as social justice, heritage and identity, education, social participation, and sustainable development. We encourage cross-border collaboration and promote knowledge sharing between organizations, professionals, and communities.

FADN serves as a platform, discussion partner, and advocate. By joining forces and aligning agendas, we create a strong collective voice for governments, civil society institutions, and international partners. In this way, we contribute to structural solutions for issues affecting the Afro-diaspora.

We are more than a network: we are a movement. A movement that believes in solidarity, collaboration, and shared leadership. Together, we build lasting connections and a future where the voices of our members resonate powerfully, locally, nationally, and globally.

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FEDERATION BOARD

The board of the Federation Afro Diaspora Network (FADN) is composed in accordance with the established statutes.

The board is formed by representatives of the HOOB Foundation and the One PoweRRR Foundation and consists of:

  • Iwan Leeuwin – Chairman

  • Connie Arnoldus – Secretary

The board members share responsibility for the federation's direction, decision-making, and representation. They act within the mandate as laid out in the articles of association and are committed to transparent governance, collaboration, and strengthening the Afro-diaspora.

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OBJECTIVES

Objectives of the Federation

The Federation has the following objectives:

  • To represent, strengthen, and connect Afro-organizations worldwide, with particular attention to communities in the Netherlands, the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Suriname, and other regions where people of African descent live;

  • To promote equal rights, social justice, cultural recognition, self-determination, and economic development of Afro-communities worldwide;

  • To act as a dialogue partner on behalf of affiliated organizations in discussions with national and international governments, multilateral institutions, civil society organizations, companies, and other relevant actors;

  • To stimulate solidarity, cooperation, and the exchange of knowledge between Afro-organizations in the Global South and the diaspora;

  • To develop, support, and coordinate policy initiatives, projects, and programs aimed at emancipation, education, heritage, mental and physical health, entrepreneurship, and social participation;

  • To contribute to institutional and social infrastructures that enable sustainable development, self-organization, and political representation of Afro-communities;

  • To promote international networks, platforms, and exchange programs aimed at strengthening the global Afro-community;

  • To recognize, reflect upon, and actively address the continuing impact of the history of slavery and colonial legacies, and to promote repair, recognition, and healing in the broadest sense;

  • To carry out all further actions that are related to the above in the broadest sense or that may be conducive thereto.
     

The activities of the Federation are exclusively aimed at serving the public interest and not at making a profit. Any income shall be fully applied to the realization of the statutory objectives.
 

Mission

From a Dutch perspective, the Federation works worldwide towards the structural strengthening, representation, and connection of Pan-African organizations. The Federation promotes social justice, cultural recognition, economic independence, and political influence. It creates space for cooperation, policy advocacy, and self-organization, in solidarity with the struggle against racism, colonial legacies, the ongoing impact of the history of slavery, and systemic exclusion.

We strive for a world in which people of African descent are free to shape their own future, rooted in dignity, justice, and collective strength. We build sustainable systems in which our communities are not only heard, but also genuinely participate in decision-making on matters that concern them.

We do this by:

  • Actively acting as a dialogue partner with national and international governments, multilateral institutions, civil society organizations, companies, and other relevant actors;

  • Representing the interests of our members worldwide;

  • Stimulating cooperation and solidarity between organizations and individuals in the diaspora and the Global South.
     

What We Do

  • Organization of meetings, conferences, and networking activities;

  • Cooperation with international partners;

  • Initiating and coordinating heritage and awareness-raising projects;

  • Advisory services and advocacy: We engage in dialogue with local, national, and international governments to represent the interests of our members and constituencies;

  • Capacity building: Training sessions, workshops, and knowledge exchange for leaders and organizations;

  • Project development: Initiatives in the fields of emancipation, education, health, entrepreneurship, and social participation. Support for cultural and educational projects;

  • Network building: Creating platforms for cooperation between diaspora communities and the Global South;

  • Policy advocacy: Active involvement in shaping policies that affect Afro-communities worldwide.

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Management and Use of Assets

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The assets of the Federation are managed by the Board. Expenditures shall take place exclusively in furtherance of the statutory objectives. Funds are used for project costs, organizational costs, and activities that serve the public interest.

Any positive balances shall be added to the assets of the association and allocated to future activities.

 

Fundraising

The Federation derives its income from:

  • membership contributions;

  • subsidies and contributions from governments;

  • donations and gifts;

  • funds and sponsors;

  • other income that is consistent with the objectives of the Federation.
     

Remuneration Policy

In principle, members of the Board do not receive remuneration for their activities. They are entitled to reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred.

The Articles of Association provide for the possibility, if so decided by the General Meeting of Members, to grant Board members a non-excessive remuneration. Any remuneration shall at all times be market-conform, determined in a transparent manner, and in compliance with the framework set by the Dutch Tax Authorities for Public Benefit
 

Organizations (ANBI).

Reporting and Transparency

The Federation prepares an annual report and financial statements on a yearly basis. These are adopted by the General Meeting of Members. The association operates transparently and makes relevant information available in accordance with ANBI requirements.


Our Commitment

Together, we make history. Together, we build a strong, connected, and future-oriented Afro-community — locally and globally.

 

The Pillars of the Federation

 

The Federation operates on the basis of eight thematic pillars. Together, they form the foundation of our commitment to representation, connection, and sustainable development within the Afro-diaspora.
 

1. Legal Position & Equality

Within the Federation Afro Diaspora Network, Legal Position & Equality is a central pillar. We believe that every individual is entitled to equal opportunities, regardless of origin, skin color, or background. Unfortunately, many members of the Afro-community worldwide still experience discrimination, marginalization, and inequality.
 

Our Federation is actively committed to addressing these inequalities by:

  • Placing discrimination and racism on the agenda in social and political discourse;

  • Promoting equal access to education, employment, and social participation;

  • Supporting initiatives and projects that contribute to social justice and equal treatment;

  • Collaborating with organizations and institutions dedicated to human rights and inclusion.

We strive for a society in which justice, respect, and equal opportunities are the norm rather than the exception. By joining forces within our network, we strengthen the voice of the Afro-diaspora and take concrete steps toward a world without discrimination and with space for everyone’s talents.
 

2. Care, Health, and Well-being

Within this pillar, the promotion of inclusion, well-being, equal opportunities, and social cohesion is central. The Federation aims to serve as a safety net and support hub for the Afro-diaspora by working in partnership with civil society organizations, social welfare institutions, and community-based projects.
 

We are committed to combating exclusion and discrimination and to building a society in which everyone counts. By connecting Afro-communities worldwide, we not only strengthen social cohesion but also contribute to greater equality and overall well-being.
 

3. Education, Knowledge Development, Innovation & Technology

By making culture visible and passing it on to future generations, we strengthen bonds within the community and raise awareness beyond the diaspora. In this way, we build a future in which our history, traditions, and creativity continue to be valued.
 

The Federation Afro Diaspora Network is committed to the preservation, promotion, and transmission of African and Afro-diaspora heritage. Our culture is rich, diverse, and powerful, a source of identity and pride. We seek to keep this heritage alive through events, educational programs, arts, and documentation.
 

4. International Representation & Networks

The Afro-diaspora is present worldwide, and this pillar therefore focuses on building international networks and platforms. Through exchange programs, conferences, and collaborative projects, we aim to strengthen ties between diaspora communities in different countries.

Our ambition is to make the Afro-community internationally visible and influential and to serve as a voice in global issues. Cross-border cooperation enables us to pool knowledge, resources, and experiences, thereby forming a stronger collective.
 

5. Social & Community Well-being

The Federation is committed to strengthening social and community well-being within Afro-diaspora communities. We focus on promoting social cohesion, resilience, and socio-economic security, with attention to issues such as poverty reduction, housing, safety, participation, and equal access to public services.
 

Through cooperation with civil society organizations, local authorities, and communities, we identify challenges, place structural issues on the agenda, and contribute to sustainable solutions. In doing so, the Federation acts as a connecting link between policy and lived experience, with the aim of enabling everyone to participate fully in society.
 

6. Knowledge Centre for Cultural Heritage & Identity

The Federation Afro Diaspora Network is committed to the preservation, promotion, and transmission of African and Afro-diaspora heritage. Our culture is rich, diverse, and powerful, a source of identity and pride. We aim to keep this heritage alive through events, educational programs, arts, and documentation.

By making culture visible and passing it on to future generations, we strengthen connections within the community and increase awareness beyond the diaspora. In this way, we build a future in which our history, traditions, and creativity continue to be valued.
 

7. Economic Development & Entrepreneurship

The Federation actively supports entrepreneurship within the diaspora. We believe that economic strength is essential for self-reliance and sustainable progress. Therefore, we work to expand access to markets, financing opportunities, and collaborative partnerships.

In addition, we encourage innovative projects and start-ups and provide platforms for knowledge sharing and for connecting entrepreneurs. In this way, a strong economic network is created that generates opportunities for current and future generations.
 

8. Political & Civic Participation

The pillar of Political & Civic Participation focuses on increasing the influence and representation of the Afro-diaspora in policy processes and decision-making. Too often, the voice of our community is insufficiently heard, despite its valuable contribution to society.


The Federation Afro Diaspora Network seeks to change this by:

  • Actively promoting awareness and empowerment, enabling more members of the community to speak up and be heard;

  • Encouraging participation in political and civic debate at local, national, and international levels;

  • Supporting initiatives that enhance the representation of the Afro-community in councils, boards, and policy-making bodies;

  • Developing partnerships with policymakers and institutions to secure a structural place for the voice of the diaspora.


We believe that genuine progress is only possible when the Afro-community is present at the tables where decisions are made. By joining forces, we increase the visibility, influence, and impact of the diaspora in the civic and political domain.

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