Expats and Locals Limburg | Buddy System Sittard-Geleen
New in town?
Did you recently arrive in Sittard-Geleen for work? Or are you ready to settle here for a few years or the long term?
Join our social events and activities, meet new friends and let our buddies guide you! We speak multiple languages and are happy to meet you.
Let our buddies show you around
Let’s connect, share stories, and enjoy new experiences
Settle, explore, thrive in Sittard-Geleen
It’s a big step when you decide to move to Sittard-Geleen for work. Also, it is a wonderful opportunity: The Netherlands is a great base to discover Europe. We have a cycling culture and a healthy work-life balance. But moving is also exciting, especially when you travel alone. There are so many things to think about.
Browse through our buddy list and choose a buddy you would like to connect with
Complete the form to request your buddy, your selected buddy receives a request and makes an appointment with you
You will be paired with your buddy for 3 months, or as long as necessary
Community stories
Experiences of living and connecting in Limburg
Behind every move is a personal story. In these community interviews, internationals and expats share their experiences of starting a new life in South Limburg. From finding connections to navigating culture and everyday life, each story reflects a different journey, but a shared sense of home.
Our Foundation
Our values
Mission
Empowering internationals to integrate smoothly into the community of Sittard-Geleen and make it grow through personalized support and social connections.
Vision
Creating a welcoming and inclusive community for internationals in Sittard-Geleen that empowers individuals and transforms the city into a dynamic hub that celebrates cultural richness and diversity.
Empowerment
Providing internationals with the tools, resources, and support needed to actively contribute to the city's social-cultural, and economic life while celebrating diversity and respecting each other's culture.
Collaboration
Fostering a community between internationals, organizations and businesses to collectively address challenges and promote growth and development.
Community engagement
Encouraging active involvement in community events, initiatives, and activities to build connections amongst internationals and locals.
Cultural diversity
Celebrating and embracing cultural diversity between the internationals and the locals of Sittard-Geleen through cultural exchange, learning and appreciation.
New connections, new beginnings
Our buddies are here to help you discover Sittard-Geleen and smoothly integrate into your new surroundings. Together, we’ll make your move a warm welcome!
Wouter van den Berg
Wouter, A Dutch national, residing in Sittard and employed at the Brightlands Chemelot Campus, has been living in the area for a remarkable 25 years and still finds it captivating.
Noah Vladimir Hirsch Trembovolsky
Noah, a father, entrepreneur, and expat. Born in Belarus, he spent half of his life in Russia before relocating to Sittard.
Debbie van Cleef
Debbie has been living in Limburg since birth and Sittard has been her home from 2003 until 2024 and she now lives in Voerendaal. She left Limburg for six months to do a work placement in London, UK.
Helge Haarig
Helge was born in Germany and has been living in Limburg for almost 40 years, where he also obtained Dutch nationality five years ago. He works as a Global Operations Manager for a Swedish company. In his free time he likes many things including traveling and going to the gym.
Ian Grace
Ian moved to The Netherlands from Chester (UK) in 1993. He now has the Dutch nationality because of Brexit, but considers himself a true European.
Sjuul Derkx
Sjuul is an interdisciplinary PhD researcher with a background in finance, economics and psychology. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with friends and family.
Marliene Bos
Marliene has been living in Susteren since 1996, and she supports international students through Zuyd Hogeschool and the Buddy System. With a passion for travel, sports, culture, and music, she connects people and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Balázs Donát Bessenyei
Donát is originally from Hungary and lived in Budapest for over ten years. He also studied in Karlsruhe, Germany, and now works as a freelance software engineer. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor activities and table sports and likes to give back by supporting others through the Buddy System.
Björn van Sloun
Björn, a true local living in Sittard now for 10 years. In his spare time he loves sports, socializing, music, cooking and reading.
Kimberley van der Heijden
Kimberley likes travelling and exploring new cultures. She was born and raised in Sittard-Geleen and is looking forward to meeting you.
Nikolai Bredelev
Nikolai has been doing business in The Netherlands for more than 15 years. He moved to Limburg in 2023 and is eager to share his experience with newcomers.
Bert Kamphuis
Bert is based in Sittard, has an extensive experience in international education and local politics. Since his early retirement in January 2025, he has been involved in the Buddy System Sittard-Geleen, eager to share his expertise in international cooperation and integration with expats in the region.
Joop Petit
Joop is passionate about innovative solutions that connect people and their environment. Founder and owner of Phidias since 2012.
Ellen van Brandenburg
Ellen is originally from Gelderland, and she studied in Eindhoven. Her professional career led her to Limburg, and she has been residing in Geleen for quite some years now.
Emma Wijnen
Emma works at Fontys International Business School in Venlo where she teaches Marketing and Psychology and coordinates Erasmus+ projects for international students.
FAQ: Your questions answered
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join events without signing up for a buddy?
Yes. Everyone can join our events — internationals, expats and locals. You can choose to join events only or sign up for a buddy as well.
What kind of events do you organise?
We host monthly expat get-togethers, social gatherings, board game evenings, walking tours, pub quizzes and seasonal activities.
How do I join an event?
All our events are listed on Eventbrite. Simply pick the event you like and register. Some events have limited spots.
Can I ask for help even if I don’t want a buddy or can’t join events?
Absolutely. Feel free to join our WhatsApp community and reach out if you have questions about living, working or settling in Sittard-Geleen.
What is the Buddy System Sittard-Geleen?
The Buddy System connects newcomers, expats and internationals with local residents who help them settle into the city, build a network and feel at home.
How does the buddy matching work?
After you sign up, we review your preferences and match you with a local buddy or expat buddy who fits your interests and needs. You will receive an email once your match is ready.
Is the Buddy System free?
Yes, taking part in the Buddy System and signing up for a buddy is completely free
Do I need to speak Dutch in order to participate?
No. Most buddies speak English, and our activities are accessible for all language levels.