Connect your Roots

Connect Your Roots is an inspiring event that invites participants – especially young adults – to discover their family story. In a phase of life in which important choices are made about relationships, study, work or family, knowing your background helps you to stand stronger and more consciously in life. Through keynotes, music and workshops, visitors will search for the influence of family history on identity, personal development and mental resilience.

A versatile program of keynotes, workshops, music and soul food

The program is specifically designed for young adults between the ages of 18 and 35, but the event is open to all people who want to learn more about their ancestors and how this knowledge can be a positive force in their lives.

The day opens with two inspiring keynotes:

1. Rebecca Hintze (US), an expert in emotional health and author of the international bestseller Healing Your Family History , shares how understanding your family story can contribute to personal healing and breaking through generations-old patterns. She also shows how journaling can be a powerful tool in this.
2. Stephanie Biesheuvel , author of The Betrayal of the Jordaan , shares her search for the truth behind her suppressed family history, in which her great-grandfather was named as a possible traitor to Anne Frank.

Choice of 6 interactive workshops:

1. Searching for your Indian roots ( Maddy Batelaan – CBG )
2. Discover your Surinamese roots ( Denie Kasan – The Family Tree Guy )
3. Using FamilySearch apps
4. Find family with DNA ( MyHeritage )
5. Recognizing family patterns ( Lieke van Wermeskerken )
6. Bringing your family history to life ( Bauke Jousma – Story Explorer )

There will also be music and space for meeting and asking further questions in the discovery corner, with a walking dinner to end the day together.

Building your family story together

Connect Your Roots is organized by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in partnership with FamilySearch, CBG | Family History Center, MyHeritage, and other genealogical organizations.

The day is intended to help young adults, their friends and family – and anyone else who feels addressed – discover their roots, stimulate their personal development and strengthen connections between generations.