Talking traffic on Keizer Karelplein, hydrogen developments in the automotive sector and an explanation of the new ways of working, cryptocurrencies and artificial intelligence. It’s all covered in *De Vibe van Nimma *. In her book, author Eva van Otterlo takes you on a tour of Nijmegen’s innovations. And there are plenty of them.
Innovation is a broad concept, as Van Otterlo knows only too well. In the early stages, she consulted with a think tank. She also consistently asked the people she interviewed the question: ‘What does innovation mean to you?’ During her journey of discovery, she encountered remarkable individuals, brilliant inventions and creative ideas across a wide range of sectors. Innovation isn’t confined to technology; it can be found everywhere. Sometimes it is a small tweak to an existing design; sometimes it is something that arises by chance simply by keeping an open mind. Because of this broad perspective, the stories in the book vary considerably. Together, they paint a picture of what Nijmegen is capable of.
Van Otterlo began writing during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Her aim was to write a book that would inspire those around her – fellow entrepreneurs and students – to take action. She noticed that many people around her were feeling down. Inspiration and positive thinking are therefore key themes. “I initially wrote this book for young people, so that they might see opportunities and take action: ‘Oh, is that possible too? Hey, I’m going to give that a go! Interesting, I’ll Google that – maybe I can do it too’.”
Personal stories
What makes *De Vibe van Nimma* so special is that it’s also about talent and growth. The author seeks out that personal connection. “When you connect with someone, it quickly becomes about more than just the company you work for. Then people talk about their motivations, give interesting examples and share their pride. That’s inspiring!”
Whilst writing, Van Otterlo noticed that some interviewees weren’t used to telling that sort of story. At the same time, people were often very enthusiastic. “By describing a story on different levels, it becomes more reader-friendly, more enjoyable and (young) readers can relate to it more easily. After all, it’s the next generation who will have to take over.”
Innovation 'all over the place
In the end, Van Otterlo interviewed around seventy people for her book, but she spoke to many more about the subject. “A great deal of work has gone into it,” she assures us, “all the pieces have their own charm; one chapter is about linguistic innovation. Everything changes, including language and text. Creativity, experience and the authentic conveyance of the message are becoming increasingly important. In the book, as a Dutch language and literature specialist, I also give examples of linguistic innovation in literature.”
Van Otterlo realised that innovation in Nijmegen extends beyond Health & High-tech, for which the region is renowned. “Technological innovation is advancing at breakneck speed at the moment, but there are other areas that demand our attention. In the book, you’ll read about circularity, the financial transition, innovative forms of education, and innovation in sport and nutrition. One chapter, for example, is about the entrepreneurial spirit, but the book also covers innovations relating to the Four Days Marches. Innovation is ‘all over the place’. It’s really wonderful if you’re open to it.”
More about The Vibe of Nimma
Nimma's Vibe was presented to the Nijmegen public in early June. Van Otterlo personally distributed the 2,500 copies to those who bought the book. This suits her personal approach. Currently, the book is no longer for sale (except for a few pieces). If there is enough enthusiasm, there will be a second edition. In her Upper Room, she is toying with plans about a sequel, a new version.
Read more
bovenkamer.com
linkedin.com/in/evavanotterlo
Main photo: Duncan de Fey
