A new way to play
Amsterdam invests in tough neighbourhood
The Bijlmer in Amsterdam is widely known for its urban aestheic , and its tough neighborhoods . The Amsterdam municipality decided to invest back into the area with the Fono outdoor DJ-booth . Just like any other city in the Netherlands , the city district is having a hard time inspiring teenagers to get outdoors and live an active lifestyle . And when they do go outside , it ’ s even more difficult to ensure they spend their time constructively and in a positive manner - both for themselves and their surroundings . The Fono is shown to be a great solution towards these issues .
Teenagers already carry mobile phones , listen to music and socialize . The Yalp Fono works with these trends , and thereby allows teens to do something they actually like . The teens acknowledge this and are truly thankful . Yalp Fono allows teenagers to get together in a positive way , and express themselves freely . Not only is it an absolute blast , they get to develop valuable skillsets and enhance their creativity .
Oscar Hulscher , policy maker for South-East district , states : ‘’ The first time I tested the Fono in the Bijlmerpark , the youth approached me immediately and they all wanted to try it out for themselves . They figured it out much faster than I could , and within a few minutes they created their own little party . It was great to see their smiling faces . They couldn ’ t believe it was there to stay and for them to enjoy .”