How to Work in an International Team
23rd International Talent & Food Festival at VU Amsterdam
On Saturday, 22 November, Monika Matuszewska – international career coach, intercultural communication specialist, and founder of LaMatu – will lead an interactive Table Topic discussion “How to Work in an International Team” as part of the 23rd International Talent & Food Festival at VU Amsterdam.
The Festival brings together an exceptional community of globally minded students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders. With more than 40 nationalities represented across past editions, it has become one of Amsterdam’s most dynamic platforms for international talent development. With 22 previous events, 790+ attendees, and participants from 40+ nationalities, the Festival offers a vibrant setting to learn, connect, and grow.
Event Details
📅 When: Saturday, 22 November 2025, 12:30 – 16:30
📍 Where: VU Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
🎯 What: 23rd International Talent & Food Festival
About the Session
International teams are the new normal – but working effectively across cultures requires more than shared goals or digital tools. It demands cultural awareness, communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to build trust with colleagues whose perspectives may be shaped by entirely different norms.
🌍 Key Skills for International Collaboration
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⚪️ Navigating cultural differences with confidence
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⚪️ Communicating clearly across diverse communication styles
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⚪️ Avoiding misunderstandings and resolving conflicts respectfully
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⚪️ Building psychological safety in multicultural team
🤝 Practical Workplace Strategies
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⚪️ How to work effectively with colleagues from different nationalities
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⚪️ How to handle feedback styles, hierarchy expectations, and decision-making across cultures
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⚪️ How to translate cultural awareness into everyday leadership
💼 For Whom?
This session is designed for:
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⚪️ Students entering the global job market
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⚪️ Professionals working in multicultural organisations in the Netherlands
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⚪️ Startup founders building international teams
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⚪️ Anyone looking to strengthen their intercultural competence
Why Join This Festival?
Previous attendees come for:
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⚪️ 91% – Networking opportunities
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⚪️ 75% – The international community vibe
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⚪️ 46% – Gaining more knowledge about the topic
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⚪️ 42% – Career opportunities
About Monika Matuszewska
Monika is an Amsterdam-based career and leadership coach specialising in supporting international professionals working across borders. Through her company, LaMatu, she helps clients build meaningful careers, strengthen intercultural communication skills, and thrive in global organisations. Her coaching blends cultural intelligence, values-driven leadership, and practical workplace strategy tailored to the realities of multicultural teams. Monika’s approach draws on her 20+ years of international corporate experience (IBM, L’Oréal, Philips, Dyson), her academic background across four European universities, and her coaching practice supporting international professionals from over 60 nationalities.
Venue
This edition of the International Talent & Food Festival takes place at VU Amsterdam, one of the city’s most well-known academic hubs located in the heart of Amsterdam’s Knowledge District in Buitenveldert. Located near the Zuidas business district and surrounded by research institutes, startups, and multinational headquarters, the area reflects the international, innovation-focused atmosphere of the event. Attendees often appreciate the modern facilities, open spaces, and easy access to a wide selection of cafés and restaurants. The campus is easy to reach from across the city, making it an ideal location for students, young professionals, and international visitors.
📍 Easy to Reach from Amsterdam City Centre
VU Amsterdam is conveniently connected to Amsterdam Zuid Station, one of the city’s major transport interchanges. From Amsterdam Central Station, the venue can be reached in around 15 minutes by metro or train, offering a smooth journey for anyone travelling from the centre or other parts of the Randstad.
VU University
De Boelelaan 1105
1081 HV Amsterdam
The Netherlands
🚆 Public Transport Access
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Metro: M52 (North–South Line) to Amsterdam Zuid + short tram/bus ride
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Train: Direct connections from Amsterdam Central, Schiphol, Utrecht, and The Hague
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Tram/Bus: Multiple lines stop within walking distance of the main campus buildings
This excellent accessibility makes VU Amsterdam a strong choice for international and local professionals attending events, conferences, and talent development programmes.
🚗 Arriving by Car
The campus is close to the A10 ring road, with several nearby parking garages. Guests arriving from outside Amsterdam or elsewhere in the Netherlands will find the location simple to navigate to.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for inspiration and general reference only. While LaMatu aims to keep details accurate and up to date, LaMatu cannot guarantee their completeness or correctness. LaMatu is not responsible for any changes, updates, or cancellations related to this event. LaMatu disclaims any liability for errors, omissions, or decisions made based on this information. For the most current details, please refer to the official event organisers.
