We spoke with Cox van Zijderveld and Else Moolhuizen from ELANCE Academy, one of our tenants, about their mission to train social studies students as coaches. Through their internships, these students mentor girls and young women aged 10 to 27, helping them work towards personal goals such as building self-confidence, improving social skills, or simply having someone to listen to them. Over the course of 21 weeks, they form meaningful connections and provide guidance tailored to each young woman’s needs.
A big sister to rely on
At ELANCE Academy, students from social studies like Social Work and Psychology gain hands-on experience as coaches. Each coach is carefully matched with a girl from a similar background, creating a natural connection. Cox sees the value of this approach firsthand: “I would have loved to have had a coach like this when I was younger, not because I was struggling with major issues, but simply because having someone who understands you is incredibly valuable.
Cox emphasizes that the program isn’t just for girls facing major life challenges. “It’s about having someone who truly listens, who understands what they’re going through. A trusted person they can turn to for advice. The coaches act as a big sister figure for the girls.”
Else adds, “It’s incredibly rewarding work, especially when you see the impact coaching has. You become part of a new chapter in someone’s life. The girls themselves often express how much it has meant to them.”
Small steps, big impact
At ELANCE, it’s the small steps that count. A girl learning to set boundaries, gaining confidence in social situations, these developments are so important. Else reflects on what she would tell her younger self: “Take your time. Everything will work out, so allow yourself the space to process things.”
Cox adds, “Be aware of the impact you can have, whether it’s showing kindness to a friend or a stranger at the supermarket. You never know how much it might mean to someone.”
Eat & Empower: International Women’s Day
ELANCE Academy organizes various events to connect young women, coaches, and other inspiring role models. One example is Eat & Empower, part of The Hague Women’s Days. This interactive dinner brings women together to discuss the theme ‘Woman of the Future.’ By sharing experiences and inspiring each other, they empower both themselves and one another. “These events bring together girls, coaches, and strong women from different backgrounds,” Else says. “That’s incredibly valuable.”
Working at ELANCE and in The Zone
ELANCE Academy is a place where everyone feels at home. “It’s vibrant, informal, and welcoming. Our door is always open,” Cox and Else share. This extends beyond their own organization into The Zone, the workspace they call home. “It’s a great place to work, in a beautiful neighbourhood. We love taking a walk in the Scheveningse Bosjes or grabbing a drink after work.”
But for them, it’s the sense of community that truly matters. “We share this space with many socially driven organizations, like Buddy Netwerk, Stichting Vitalis Maatjes, and JINC. There’s a warm connection with our neighbors, we can always reach out, whether for support or just a friendly chat. That sense of togetherness is essential in an organization like ours.”
At the same time, they appreciate the diversity of businesses in The Zone. “It’s also refreshing to work alongside companies from different industries. It brings different worlds together, and that’s what makes it fun.”
Through their work at ELANCE Academy, Cox and Else demonstrate the importance of women supporting women. On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate initiatives like ELANCE Academy and the power of growing together.