Denderleeuw (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Denderleeuw held its 1st Language Market with over 70 residents, organised with the Agency for Integration and Civic Participation. Main figures included Isabelle Heyndrickx and Alderman Chancelvie Okitokandjo.
As VRT News reported, the municipality of Denderleeuw, in the province of East Flanders, Belgium, held its 1st Language Market today, Dec 4, 2025. The event was organised in partnership with the Agency for Integration and Civic Participation.
“Language is what connects everything,”
says general director Isabelle Heyndrickx.
“Language makes you feel at home, helps you find your way, and makes it easy to connect.”
“You don’t just learn Dutch in the classroom; you also have to practice it. A market like this ensures that every organisation is within reach, and you don’t have to refer people to other services at other times. That leads to too many dropouts.”
What is Denderleeuw’s 1st Language Market offering 70+ residents?
Officials mentioned that residents could join workshops, practice speaking, and learn practical tools to improve their language skills. The market also offered a space for people from different backgrounds to meet and share experiences.
Denderleeuw has around 20,000 residents and faces challenges often seen in larger cities. Its location near the capital has led to a diverse population with many cultures and languages. Local authorities said helping residents learn languages and feel included is a priority.
“The direct train and car connections make Denderleeuw very attractive for those working in Brussels,”
says Alderman Chancelvie Okitokandjo (CD&V).
“It’s important that people build their lives here and not just participate in life in Brussels. Dutch is an important link for our municipal government. That’s why we initiated this market.”
More than 70 residents of Denderleeuw took part in the municipality’s 1st Language Market. Attendees were able to have their language skills tested to find out their level. The event welcomed both beginners and residents who already speak some Dutch.
“You can also register for language courses,”
says Okitokandjo.
Authorities said that keeping up Dutch skills is just as important as learning them. Participants could join discussion groups, themed afternoons, and other practice sessions to maintain and strengthen their skills. The municipality will review the event and determine whether a refresher course or follow-up program is needed.
Denderleeuw is a busy commuter town with a main train station that connects many people to the capital city. The town has a diverse population, which has made integration and language learning a priority for local authorities. The Agency for Integration and Civic Participation helps coordinate programs to support Dutch language learning and civic orientation.
