Step into Zelfspraak, a vibrant spoken word experience by Diversity Academy here at The Grey Space, where young voices turn language into a powerful force for identity, reflection, and social change.
Zelfspraak is a spoken word programme by Diversity Academy in The Hague where language becomes a tool for self-expression, reflection and social change.
In this creative workshop series, young people explore who they are, what they stand for, and how they want to use their voice. Through spoken word, participants learn to translate personal stories into powerful performances that challenge norms and spark dialogue.
Diversity Academy is a creative learning programme for young people who want to express their identity, creativity and social voice through art. In a supportive and brave space, participants experiment, collaborate and grow, both as artists and as individuals.
Zelfspraak runs from April to June 2026 in The Hague, with multiple workshops.
The trajectory includes:
Kick-off Zelfspraak – 18 April, 12:00 – 17:00
Workshop + Inspiration Session 1 – 25 April, 12:00 – 17:00
Workshop + Inspiration Session 2 – 2 May, 12:00 – 17:00
Workshop + Inspiration Session 3 – 9 May, 12:00 – 17:00
Work Session 1 – 13 May, 19:00 – 22:00
Work Session 2 – 20 May, 19:00 – 22:00
Work Session 3 – 27 May, 19:00 – 22:00
Production Session – 30 May, 12:00 – 17:00
Final Presentation Moment – 13 June (time TBA)
Each workshop combines spoken word with urgent social themes. Participants first dive into topics such as feminism, anti-racism, sexual freedom, queer emancipation, gender diversity and activism. Through conversation, reflection and inspiration, they deepen their understanding of these themes and how they relate to their own lived experiences.
After exploring the theme, participants immediately translate their insights into writing. Through specific spoken word techniques, creative exercises and performance practice, they develop their own texts step by step. This approach ensures that artistic development and social awareness go hand in hand.
Throughout the programme, participants are guided by experienced spoken word artists and socially engaged makers. They offer personal feedback, writing support and performance coaching in a supportive and safe space. Participants work within a community, where experimentation, vulnerability and growth are encouraged.
By the end of the trajectory, each participant is ready to confidently perform their own spoken word piece in front of an audience.
Please note that all workshops are conducted in Dutch.
It is a paid workshop programme: participation in Diversity Academy costs €125. More than 95% of the total cost is covered by people, organisations, and funds that believe in each participant’s potential. If someone cannot afford the fee but still wants to join, no worries! They can send an email to isabelle@bo-diversity.com, and the team will look for a suitable solution together. Participants pay €125 for all workshops and the entire programme, but a sponsor is always available for those who are unable to cover the cost.