Godfrey Lado

“In the beginning, I was mostly concerned with survival. When I was ready to vote, it felt like a privilege. Many people don’t realize that voting is a privilege. Your vote really counts here, so please vote. Maybe you come from a country where voting doesn’t change anything, but in the Netherlands your vote does make a difference. I first look at what issues I find important, such as migration and refugees, and then I look for a party that fits. You can easily compare parties online, which helps to make a good choice. Can’t read the texts well? Use a translation app. It is important that you understand who you are voting for.”

Godfrey Lado is a South Sudanese Amsterdam native, musician, poet and social entrepreneur who uses art as a powerful tool for dialogue and participation. As founder of Ubuntu Embassy, he works to make the stories of newcomers visible and amplify their voices. In his work, he connects art, community and civic engagement, aiming to encourage active participation in society.