Pride Summer Experience
Welcome to the Pride Summer Experience 2026 at Saxion University of Applied Sciences: an international educational summer programme where talent development, leadership and culture come together in a global learning environment.
Ready for the Pride Summer Experience 2026?
Apply now
Be part of something bigger than yourself
What if your summer was not just about travel,
but about discovering who you are and how you connect to others?
The Pride Summer Experience is a 5-day international programme by Saxion University of Applied Sciences, bringing together students from across Europe to explore identity, leadership and community.
Together, we start in Enschede. From there, you will be ready to continue your journey to WorldPride Amsterdam 2026, on your own but connected through a shared network.
Who is this for?
This experience is for students who:
- want to explore their identity in their own way
- are curious about leadership and making impact
- value diversity, inclusion and different perspectives
- identify as LGBTQIA+ or as an ally
- are open to meeting people from different cultures
You do not need to have all the answers. You just need to show up as yourself, and be open to others.
What will you gain?
This is not a traditional summer school. It is an experience where you will:
- build an international network of like-minded students
- explore identity in a safe and open environment
- develop leadership skills for your future career
- reflect on who you are as a professional and as a person
- experience what it means to be part of a community
The experience
1. Connect in Enschede
We start in a city where space allows for real connection. Through interactive sessions, creative workshops and shared moments, we build a community based on trust, openness and respect.
2. Explore identity and leadership
You will engage in sessions around:
- identity and culture
- being your authentic self in professional environments
- navigating challenges and opportunities as a queer professional
We learn from each other’s stories, perspectives and experiences.
3. Continue your journey
After the programme in Enschede, you will be ready to continue your journey to Amsterdam during WorldPride 2026 from August 1 to 7.
You will not be alone. You will move forward as part of a network that continues beyond this week.
What’s included?
- Full programme in Enschede
- Workshops and masterclasses
- Community activities and social events
- Guidance and support throughout the week in Enschede
Participation in WorldPride Amsterdam is optional and arranged individually, supported by the network formed during the programme.
You won’t be doing this alone
This experience is built together with:
-
student communities like SV Queer and Exaltio
- international partners across Europe
- professionals and role models from different fields
And most importantly, with you and your fellow participants.
Why this matters
In many environments, people still feel the need to adapt. To fit in. To hold back parts of who they are.
We believe in something different. We believe that real progress starts when people can show up as themselves and connect with others from that place. Not despite differences, but because of them.
Practical information
- Location: Enschede, the Netherlands
- Programme: July 27 to July 31, 2026
- Optional continuation: Amsterdam, August 1 to 7, 2026
- Limited spots available, approximately 25 students
- Open to national and international students
Marco creates learning environments where leadership, identity and professional growth intersect. His work focuses on dialogue, inclusion and future-oriented leadership within higher education.
Marco Strijks
Programme Lead - Pride Summer Experience and Inclusive Leadership & Learning Spaces
[email protected]Cecille brings a human-centred perspective to the programme, supporting students in reflection, wellbeing and personal leadership development. She ensures the programme remains balanced, safe and supportive.
As student representative, Daniël supports participants with practical questions and day-to-day matters from a student perspective, helping international participants feel welcomed and connected from the start. Mail for general inquiries: [email protected]
Ingrid supports the organisational coordination of the Pride Summer Experience within Saxion.
As an events coordinator, I help guide the Pride Summer Experience at Saxion from concept to execution. With a structured approach and an eye for detail, I help to create a seamless and engaging experience for participants.
Apply now
Spots are limited and selection will take place in rounds.
One more thing
This is not just about Pride. This is about connection. About community. About standing together and moving forward. This is who we are. And this is what we build, together.
- Location
Ko Wierenga, M.H. Tromplaan 28, Enschede
- Date and time
27 up to and including 31 July 2026