GVB 125 years

The anniversary party took place over two identical days at LIEF Amsterdam. A deliberate choice, because after all, streetcars and subways had to keep running. By duplicating the program exactly, every employee got the same experience.

The program was broad, musical and inclusive. From Dutch-language acts to culturally diverse styles of music, all with a nod to Amsterdam. An absolute highlight was the CFP Got Talent stage, where employees themselves were given the stage. Big talent, small talent, professional or hobby: everyone was welcome.

This was surrounded by a rich fringe program including an Amsterdam pub quiz, a comedy show about GVB and an extensive culinary offering. All of the food stations were inspired by Amsterdam markets such as the Noordermarkt and Dappermarkt. The city was also palpable throughout in decor and branding, combined with elements from the GVB corporate identity and the streetscape around stations.

The biggest challenge was finding the common denominator within such a diverse organization. The goal was not to have everyone always like everything, but rather to make sure that every employee recognized, felt appreciated and entertained at several points during the evening.

Together with GVB, we worked bottom-up. We set up a sounding board group with employees from all layers of the organization. Not to make concrete choices, but to understand what people find important and what should not be missing. That input formed the basis for the program.

In addition, the two-day program required tight choices. Artists and parts had to be available both days. The goal was to enthuse as many colleagues as possible, so internal communication was a major focus. Clarity, enthusiasm and expectation management were crucial.

Our added value lay in the creative concept, which GVB immediately fell for, as well as in the translation of cultural diversity into concrete choices. Because GVB does not organize this type of event on a regular basis, we were able to involve them in the entire process. From sketching possibilities to making choices that suited both management and target group.

This event was really written for us. Making the right transition between concept and execution is our expertise, based on years of experience. Listening, tuning in and then translating it sharply into a coherent whole. That is how we made the difference in this project.

The collaboration with GVB was intensive and very valuable. The project team worked on this anniversary alongside their daily work, which made it extra important to provide good support and present clear choices. Gradually the trust grew, and we were given more and more space to take steps independently.

Together we looked for the right direction, made adjustments where necessary, and built step by step toward something great. This joint effort and the feeling of really going for it together permeated the entire project. It made the collaboration not only pleasant, but above all meaningful.

The result was a two-day anniversary celebration with unprecedented energy. From start to finish there was a great atmosphere. Employees were visibly surprised by the size, format and content of the event.

The GVB Got Talent stage proved to be a huge hit and showed once again how powerful it is to put employees themselves at the center. The program had a fine structure and was greatly appreciated.

For many employees, the celebration felt like a gift. Especially in an organization where work is not always easy. The anniversary exceeded expectations and did exactly what it was supposed to do: show appreciation, connect and celebrate together.

A 125th anniversary, celebrated in a way that suits the city and its people.