SWIFT Returns in 2026 with New Energy and Student-Led Events

16.04.2026

Paint and Cake Event Kicks Off SWIFT, Bringing Students Together

Wittenborg’s student organisation SWIFT is back in 2026, bringing fresh energy, creativity and a stronger sense of community to student life in Apeldoorn.

Founded in 2015, SWIFT (Student Wittenborg International Friendship Team) was created to help students connect, make friends and feel at home while studying abroad. After a break, it has now been reintroduced with new ideas and more student-led events.

The team shared their excitement about the relaunch, highlighting SWIFT as a group of creative students working together with the Events Department to organise activities that bring students closer and improve campus life.

Paint and Cake: Creativity, Food and Connection

On 23 March, SWIFT organised a 'Paint & Cake' event in Apeldoorn, giving students a fun and relaxed break from their studies. Around 20 students joined to paint, talk and enjoy homemade cakes.

Students were treated to chocolate cake and banana and walnut cake. The event created a warm and friendly atmosphere where students could relax, connect and enjoy time together.

For many students, the event was more than just fun, it was meaningful.

Master’s student Mahtab Sazgari from Iran, who baked the cakes, shared how baking became part of her journey:

“My passion for baking started as a way to cope. When I moved to the Netherlands, I needed something to help me relax. I began cooking and slowly started sharing it with friends.

"Over time, baking became a way to share happiness. For me, it is a way to turn stress into something warm and meaningful.

"I’ve learned that small gestures matter. A cake can say ‘you are not alone’, ‘celebrate this moment’ or simply ‘thank you’. My motto is: baked with love.”

A Welcome Break for Students

Students also highlighted how the event helped them relax and connect.

Bachelor’s student Zahra Geraili from Iran said it was a memorable and friendly experience that felt like a break from exam stress.

Bachelor’s student Sayedehanita Panahi from Iran enjoyed the creative atmosphere and said painting with friends made the event even more fun.

Bachelor’s student Kyal Sin Lin from Myanmar appreciated the sense of connection and is looking forward to more events.

Master’s student Aishat Olatunde Bakare from Nigeria described the event as fun, creative and a great way to meet others.

For SWIFT, the goal is simple: bring students together.

Digital Content and Community Administrator Allegra Zazzaro said:

“Building a community among international students is very important. These events help students to stay connected, support each other and remember they are not alone.”