Catherine Kalamidas is Business Development Manager for International Congresses & Events at Rotterdam Partners. Since 2019, VKOZ events & communication has been a proud partner of Rotterdam Partners—collaborating closely to showcase the city as a world-class event destination. In this anniversary story, Catherine shares what makes VKOZ stand out, what’s next for the events industry, and her top tip for expats in the Netherlands.
🌟 In your opinion, what is VKOZ’s greatest strength as a Rotterdam-based event agency (PCO)?
“VKOZ is a true Rotterdam insider—perfectly in tune with the city’s vibe and ready to Make it Happen! Their local knowledge, creativity, and personal approach make them a reliable and inspiring partner.”
📈 What trends do you see shaping the future of corporate events – and how does VKOZ fit into that?
“Today’s event organizers are looking for flexibility, value, and experiences that feel new and meaningful. Rotterdam invites them to ‘Meet the Unexpected’—and VKOZ brings that promise to life. With fresh ideas and tailored concepts, they help international clients experience the city in ways they didn’t expect.”
🔮 What do you hope VKOZ will continue to do – or start exploring – in the next 15 years?
“Continue doing the great work you’re doing—especially in the spirit of collaboration with Rotterdam Partners! There’s so much potential in co-creating unforgettable events that truly reflect the spirit of our city.”
📚 Not a fun fact, but a tip from an expat:
“As an American living in the Netherlands, one of the best tips I can give is to read The Island at the Center of the World by Russell Shorto. It’s a fascinating story about the Dutch roots of my hometown, New York City—and it gives you a whole new perspective on Dutch-American history.”