Ramses Opdam and Joris Vleeming: children's mayors with a vision

Ramses, congratulations! Why did you want to become a children's mayor?  

When I learned more about politics in group 6, I immediately found it very interesting. We were allowed to form our own party and at the end there were even elections. I thought I could do this well. That's why I immediately knew I wanted to sign up when I saw the call for the children's mayorship. I recorded a video in which I shared my experiences and ideas. I really wanted to do it because I have plans for Haarlemmermeer. Not only more playground equipment, but also helping poor people and solving problems that take place on the street. 

It took quite a long time until we heard something, that was exciting. We were invited to present our plans and at the end of the day we met the mayor.

Joris, how was this day for you?

It was indeed exciting to wait beforehand, because they both thought Ramses and me were very good. That is why there is now a deputy mayor for children for the first time. The day with the city council, when we were officially appointed, was also very exciting. But also very special because almost everyone from my class came to watch! 

I would like to speak for other children and experience what is happening in the municipality. I thought it would be so much fun to go to events with the real mayor.

The first three months of your mayorship are now over. What was the coolest thing to do?

Ramses: We have already done a lot. During the Children's Book Week I was allowed to go to a primary school. There I heard a lot about how other children are doing at home. And I was at the arrival of Sinterklaas in Badhoevedorp. A good moment was the opening of a water tap point in Jeugdland. If you bring your own water bottle and fill it there, it saves waste and it's healthy.

Joris: I did too, I was allowed to welcome Sinterklaas to Zwanenburg and Lisserbroek! To be able to meet him as a children's mayor himself was really cool. What I also really liked was a book launch at Boekhandel Stevens. There I received the first book. Furthermore, the invitation to talk to the youth council was a real highlight for me.

Of course you also live in the municipality of Haarlemmermeer. What is it like to live here, to play, to do fun things?

Joris: It really is a very nice municipality!

Ramses: Yes, I am really happy that I can live here. I live in a very nice neighborhood with lots of nice children, I really don't want to leave there. I really like Restaurant Enjoy. There you can eat dishes from all over the world, I even saw venison steak there once.

Joris: I'm taking drawing lessons at the art and culture centre C. Hoofddorp (formerly Pier K). And then always cycle past the man in the center. That's one of my favorite places. And Climbing Park21 is super fun for children's parties.

Ramses: I used to go often to Youthland Hoofddorp to build huts and for children's parties. Claus Bowling is also really nice. Especially the snacks and the whole atmosphere there. We also go to it often Haarlemmermeer forest. Looking for Happy Stones there has really become a hobby of us. In fact, it is so completely complete in the municipality. It doesn't take much from me.

Joris: I think everyone should visit once Flour mill the Firstling need to buy flour. The mill is very beautiful and my father really bakes the most delicious pancakes with the flour!

In what areas do you hope to make a difference as children's mayors?

Joris: Before I applied, I did research at school and in my neighbourhood. For example, it emerged that different types of playground equipment should be installed for older children in order to prevent loitering youths. I find that very important myself. I am also committed through my chess club to reopen the outdoor chess field on the Polderplein. This was unfortunately removed during the coronalockdown.

Ramses: I especially want to enjoy the moments that are yet to come. But I also hope that in the coming months I can do more with what I hear from other children at school. I listen carefully to that. I also want to talk to the student councils of schools to discuss what is important to them. Later on I think it would be very nice to sit in the House of Representatives!

Finally, what would you like to say to the residents and visitors of the municipality of Haarlemmermeer?

Ramses: Keep it clean and tidy, because we have a wonderful municipality to live in. Be very happy with that.