Sobia Dilpazir Abbasi (1975, Rawalpindi, Pakistan) works as the coordinator of the greenhouse at Volkshortus Selwerd. Last year, she discovered the greenhouse in the heart of the Selwerd neighborhood and became a volunteer: “The greenhouse offers a fantastic opportunity for community involvement.” In this interview, she talks about what she's working on and what Volkshortus means for the neighborhood.
How did you come into contact with Volkshortus Selwerd?
I first saw Volkshortus during an evening walk through the neighborhood. At first, I thought it was a woodworking shop. When I discovered it was a greenhouse, I was very happy to find this hidden gem as a plant lover. The next day, I met Jeannette, the coordinator of the volunteer team, at Volkshortus. She told me all about this beautiful art project. Because I love plants, she asked if I wanted to become a volunteer. I gladly accepted.
The greenhouse beautifies the neighborhood and offers an invaluable learning place, especially for young children.
What is your role at Volkshortus?
As the coordinator, I ensure everything runs smoothly at Volkshortus. I am the contact point between the volunteers and Kunstpunt Groningen, which initiated the project. I make sure there is enough soil, fertilizers, water, and electricity. I also help repair broken equipment. Additionally, I inform the neighborhood about the various events organized by Kunstpunt and the educational department.
Are you growing anything in the greenhouse yourself?
Yes, my husband and I are currently growing various plants, including peppers, cucumbers, onions, beets, coriander, broccoli, garlic, pumpkins, and beautiful flowers. The greenhouse makes the neighborhood more beautiful and provides an invaluable learning place, especially for young children.
What does Volkshortus mean for the Selwerd neighborhood?
Volkshortus is a wonderful project that brings people together in a biological and healthy lifestyle. It provides a sense of peace, patience, and success. It is also a place where people can share knowledge and skills. The greenhouse beautifies the neighborhood and offers an invaluable learning place, especially for young children.
The greenhouse offers a fantastic opportunity for community involvement. Children can participate in art classes and see how the plants they care for grow. This helps them appreciate their efforts more and see how their work helps others.
This greenhouse is a real asset to the Selwerd neighborhood by providing access to affordable, fresh produce and promoting a healthy lifestyle. It also contributes to the overall beauty of the area, with colorful flowers and fruit-bearing trees that attract a variety of fauna. In short, I believe that Volkshortus should be maintained for as long as possible and hopefully expanded in the future so that more people can enjoy the many benefits and contribute to the well-being and vibrancy of Selwerd.
Would you like to know more about Volkshortus Selwerd? Then take a look at this page.