For more than 10 years, I’ve surrounded myself with people from different cultures. I’ve lived in Colombia, Turkey, Germany, and Spain, and traveled widely. Some of my closest friends are from India, Italy, Mexico, the United States, and many places in between. Being around people from different backgrounds—and speaking several languages—has become a big part of who I am.

Over time, I’ve come to see that we’re not all that different. Of course, our circumstances can be worlds apart. My friend from the Datooga tribe in Tanzania depends on a good harvest and the health of his cows, while my friend in Chicago depends on his customers renewing contracts. But underneath it all, both dream of many of the same things: a healthy and loving family, good friends and community, and time to do the things they love.

The past isn’t all that different either. A 15th-century sailor crossing the Sound from Amsterdam to Danzig longed for home, just as we do. A 17th-century painter worried about when the next commission would come through, much like a freelancer might today.

That perspective is at the heart of how I guide. Telling stories and meeting people brings me great joy. And as co-founder of AGC, I want to build a vibrant community of guides who love Amsterdam—not just for her beauty, but for her history, contradictions, imperfections, and the people who shaped her. Guides who bring those stories to life and share them with curious people from around the world.