Assignment

On this day, 800 external guests gathered to celebrate this anniversary. Alongside the board and management of De Goudse, advisers, certificate holders, commissioners, and former employees were present, as well as representatives from various social organisations. The event was held at a special location perfectly suited to mark this historic moment: the Sint-Jan church in Gouda. Together, they raised a glass to this significant point in time, exactly one hundred years to the day since 2 April 1924, when Geert Bouwmeester, the then 22-year-old founder, wrote the company’s first insurance policy.

Result

The reception in the beautiful Sint-Jan church was warm and welcoming. Upon arrival, guests were greeted by De Goudse colleagues before being guided to their seats. Particularly noteworthy was the impressive artwork of 900 swallows, adorning the ceiling, symbolising De Goudse. The afternoon officially commenced with a speech from Geert Bouwmeester, the chairman of De Goudse, who expressed his gratitude to all the employees and partners who have contributed to the company’s success over the past century. This was followed by a performance centred around the specially composed Goudse Song, which served as the thematic thread for the show. An actor portraying Geert Bouwmeester entered on a bicycle, a reference to the company’s origins 100 years ago. The mayor of Gouda, Pieter Verhoeve, spoke highly of the long-term service within De Goudse, while Enno H.M. Wiertsema, director of Adfiz, highlighted the importance of collaboration in his speech.

The performance concluded with a spectacular rendition of the Goudse Song, performed by an acapella choir, the Goudse employees' choir, singers, dancers, and the actor. After the show, guests enjoyed a lively drinks reception, where they lingered long into the evening, reflecting on the day’s special moments.