Hailing from Mexico, Barbara Mora Valera was only four when she arrived in Belgium. Her father’s advice, keep on going, even when things get tough, had a formative influence on this Overijse resident’s life.

These words of wisdom are a reflection of the philosophy adopted by Khaled Mostafa. A way of thinking he employs not only as a chef to help enhance his recipes but also to progress through life one step at a time.

‘The first time I witnessed the orange glow of dusk from my Brussels apartment, 20 years ago, I realised Belgium would forever be my home,’ says Jon Echanove from Tervuren.

Ana Monteiro embraces the spirit of Brazilian optimism in her life. Her positive outlook inspired her to learn Dutch six years ago so now she can greet visitors to Tervuren library with a warm smile and speak to them in Dutch.

Jolie Odia Manzanza arrived in Ruisbroek about 10 years ago. ‘Leaving Congo was not initially part of my plan. I led a fascinating life over there, thanks to my work as an organiser of cultural events. However, I decided to move to Belgium so that I could live with my husband.’

Anja Pohler works as a German teacher at the Goethe Institute in Brussels. Languages have always been her passion. Mastering Dutch as quickly as possible was the obvious thing for her to do.

Meriama Boukhriss from Vilvoorde leads a busy life throughout the year, working full time, and being the mother of a son (6) and daughter (5).

Andrej Babenko was 14 when he decided to leave his homeland, Ukraine.

Gwyneth Igoe works during the day as a teacher in an international school in Tervuren, while her evening activities include singing in The Parent’s Choir in Wezembeek-Oppem and taking Dutch lessons in Kraainem.

The next issue (in February 2015) will be delivered to all letter boxes on the western side of the Rand (from north to south: Meise, Wemmel, Merchtem, Asse, Dilbeek, Sint-Pieters-Leeuw,…

We have a mixed bag of good news and bad news to bring to you.