City Solutions
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Meeting spot for the younger generation
The Bijlmer in Amsterdam is widely known for its urban aesthetic and it’s tough neighborhoods. The Amsterdam municipality decided to invest in the area with the Yalp Fono Interactive DJ-booth. Just like any other city in the Netherlands, the city district is having a hard time inspiring teenagers to get outdoors and live an active lifestyle. And when they do go outside, it’s even more challenging to ensure they spend their time constructively and in a positive manner – both for themselves and their surroundings. The Fono is shown to be a great solution to these issues.
Teenagers already carry mobile phones, listen to music and socialize. The Fono works with these trends and thereby allowing teens to do something they like. The teens acknowledge this and are truly thankful. The Fono will enable teenagers to get together positively and express themselves freely. Not only is it an absolute blast, but they also get to develop valuable skill sets and enhance their creativity.
“I am impressed the city gave us the Fono – it makes it feel like they do care, they did it for us and took special care to do something extra.
"The first time testing the Yalp Fono in the Bijlmerpark, the kids joined in right away. It's been a huge success ever since."
It perfectly complements the existing public space.
Oscar Hulscher, policymaker for South-East district, states: ‘’The first time I tested the Yalp Fono in the Bijlmerpark, the youth approached me immediately and they all wanted to try it out for themselves. They figured it out much faster than I could, and within a few minutes, they created their own little party. It was great to see their smiling faces. They couldn’t believe it was there to stay and for them to enjoy.”
The sports area quickly turns into hangout spots. This ruins it for the people that do want to play a game of football or basketball. It can also lead to a negative image of the neighborhood. The Fono fixes this by giving every type of group something they like. Those who want to hang can do so while making music for those playing sports. It is the missing link between the playground and the sports arena.
