Wittenborg Celebrates 2025 with Festive Gatherings in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam

Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences wrapped up 2025 with two festive year-end events in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam, bringing together students, staff and alumni for music, drinks, dancing and community celebrations.

On 17 December, Wittenborg hosted its annual Christmas Drink Event at the Old Irish Pub in Apeldoorn. The gathering followed the conclusion of the SDG Gender Equality themed Project Week in the December block and began shortly after students completed their poster competition assessments. As one of Wittenborg’s well-established events, the evening focused on community spirit, holiday cheer and informal networking.

Sophia Faraji, External Relations & Events Manager, said the event “captured a wonderful sense of togetherness and celebration. It was great to see everyone relaxed and enjoying themselves, as it truly reflected the spirit of the season.”

The evening also served as the platform to announce the new Student Representatives. The election, held earlier in December, appointed Jasmine Shaw, Shelly Anand and Arshia Baharloueiyan as the top-voted representatives.

Shaw said, “I had a fantastic time. The Christmas lights sparkled and the energy of students and staff was high. It’s always such a good vibe when we can all be together in a positive and casual environment after working hard at project week.”

Baharloueiyan, who also dressed up as Santa, shared, “Playing Santa was a blast. Putting on the costume and getting into character instantly changed the mood, and the reactions from everyone made it even better. It was impossible not to smile the whole time.”

Asked about the party overall, he added, “The party was amazing! Great vibes, great music, and lots of happy faces. Everything came together perfectly and it was a proper university celebration.”

On the highlight of the evening, he said, “Definitely the interactions with students — the laughs, photos, and festive energy. Seeing everyone enjoy themselves and fully embrace the Christmas spirit was the highlight for me.”

In Amsterdam, Wittenborg closed the year with a DJ Night Party on 12 December 2025 at ClinkNOORD, hosted by Clink Hostels. The event brought together students, staff, and alumni for an evening of music, dancing, and casual socialising.

Dadi Chen, Deputy Head of School of Business, said it was great having alumni join the event, noting the enthusiasm of students who were keen to ask questions. “What an amazing night! We are still buzzing from the energy and happiness shared at the recent party, bringing together our brilliant alumni, staff, and students.”

Wittenborg alumna and Financial Administrator Amal Obi Orm added, “The DJ Party in Amsterdam was a wonderful way to close the year. I really enjoyed meeting staff, connecting with new and old students, and sharing fun moments together. Dancing, enjoying drinks, and playing games with both students and staff made the event lively and memorable.”

EBA Amsterdam student Ahd El Kafi, who designed the event poster and flyers for the event, said, “Seeing something I created become part of such an important end-of-year moment was a proud and rewarding experience. The December Block event is one of those occasions where students, staff, alumni, and leadership all come together, reinforcing the strong sense of connection at Wittenborg.”

With house, EDM, and mixed genres setting the tone, and a mini game zone keeping energy high, she added, “Moments like these show how creativity can bring people together and make the end of the year feel truly special.” 

WUP 18/12/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press