From War-Torn Yemen to Empowering Newcomers in the Netherlands: The Inspiring Journey of Shadi Alhakimi and Taaly
- Shadi Alhakimi
- Jul 30
- 1 min read
Shadi Alhakimi, a tech entrepreneur from Yemen, faced the devastating reality of civil war, forcing him to flee his home. After a challenging two-year wait in Dutch asylum centers, he encountered a significant hurdle: learning Dutch. The language barrier, combined with the trauma of his experiences, led to a burnout.
Determined to help others avoid similar struggles, Shadi channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into a powerful solution. He founded Taaly, an innovative app that connects newcomers with Dutch language buddies, offering a crucial lifeline for faster integration.
Taaly addresses a critical need, as many newcomers struggle with informal language acquisition, leading to isolation and limited opportunities. Shadi's initiative has already made a remarkable impact, with thousands of users practicing Dutch and building essential connections within Dutch society.
Shadi's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of turning personal adversity into a force for good. His dedication to fostering integration and creating equal opportunities for new arrivals in the Netherlands is truly inspiring. Taaly is more than just a language app; it's a bridge to a new life for many.

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