Queen Máxima Participates in Youth Mental Health Workshop at Amsterdam's Museum van de Geest
Museum van de Geest, a prominent cultural institution in Amsterdam dedicated to exploring mental health and the human mind, recently welcomed Queen Máxima for a special workshop. The event took place on January 21, 2025, during the National Education Fair (NOT) in Utrecht, where Her Majesty officially opened the fair.
During her visit, Queen Máxima actively participated in the museum's popular educational program, "Maak je eigen gebruiksaanwijzing" (Make Your Own Instruction Manual). This workshop is designed to facilitate discussions around mental health among young people. Engaging enthusiastically alongside students from Zadkin College in Schiedam, the Queen experienced firsthand how the museum tackles complex topics.
Fostering Mental Well-being Through Interactive Learning
Museum educators highlighted a core idea behind the workshop: while complex devices often come with manuals, the human brain, arguably the most intricate 'device,' does not. The program guides young individuals through a series of personal questions, helping them gain a deeper understanding of themselves and others. During the session, Queen Máxima shared that humor is a significant character trait for her, offering a personal insight into her own 'manual.'
The workshop was a component of the MIND Us program, an initiative for which Queen Máxima serves as honorary chair. MIND Us aims to empower young people to better manage their mental health, develop resilience, and know where to seek assistance when needed. The educational approach of Museum van de Geest, which uses art and culture to open dialogues about mental health, aligns closely with these goals.
The Museum van de Geest continues its mission to present stories and artworks that encourage reflection on the human mind and mental well-being, fostering an environment where these crucial conversations can take place.
For those interested in discovering more about local cultural experiences that address important societal themes, you can explore other museums or browse the full map on Musemap (musemap.art).
