Southern California Chapter

About the Southern California Chapter

The NAF SoCal Chapter was formed in 2006 with the support and input of the Consulate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Los Angeles. Its forerunner, the Dutch American Heritage Foundation, was established in 1991 to discover, promote, and celebrate Dutch culture, sharing this with Americans of Dutch descent and the broader community. From these activities, the Dutch American Heritage Hall of Fame was created, honoring outstanding Dutch Americans at an annual black-tie gala dinner dance. Over the years, more than 30 successful gala events have celebrated accomplished Dutch Americans across a wide variety of fields.

The Chapter represents the geographic and cultural region that generally comprises Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Riverside, San Bernardino, Kern, and Imperial counties. This wide footprint allows NAF SoCal to engage Dutch and American communities across one of the most dynamic regions in the United States.

Historically, the Chapter’s programming and events were primarily centered in the Los Angeles area. Since 2024, the Chapter has expanded its scope to include San Diego, recognizing its significant Dutch community and growing interest there. With this expanded presence, the Chapter advances the NAF’s mission of strengthening Dutch American exchange and collaboration across all of Southern California.

Key Events and Activities

The Southern California Chapter hosts a variety of annual and recurring programs, including:

• Dutch American Heritage Day Galas and Celebrations across Southern California, including in Los Angeles and San Diego, which honor Dutch American leaders and raise funds for research and cultural programs.
• Concerts featuring winners of the Princess Christina Competition, bringing world-class young musical talent to Southern California.
• Contributions to Dutch Studies at UCLA in Los Angeles and support for the Dutch School of Southern California, based in Orange County.
• NAF-Biz Talks covering Dutch developments in high-tech, climate and environmental fields, real estate, and entertainment.
• Participation in Dutch cultural traditions such as King’s Day and Sinterklaas celebrations.
• Support for impactful causes, including research exchanges with the Netherlands in the fight against cervical cancer, funded in part through gala proceeds.

These events not only celebrate Dutch heritage but also provide professional networking opportunities and strengthen U.S.-Netherlands ties.

Opportunities for Members to Get Involved

NAF SoCal offers multiple ways for members and volunteers to engage:

• Serving on Chapter leadership committees such as NAF-Biz, the Dutch American Heritage Day Gala and Celebrations Committee, and Arts & Culture.
• Volunteering at events to help advance programming, fundraising, and outreach.
• Providing mentorship and networking opportunities for students and professionals.
• Supporting the Chapter’s mission through sponsorships, donations, and active participation.

Due to its geographic location and strong business ecosystem, particularly the “Silicon Beach” corridor surrounding Los Angeles, the Chapter frequently connects with Dutch startups and entrepreneurs. NAF SoCal collaborates with the Netherlands Business Support Office Los Angeles (NBSO LA) to co-host and organize networking events, offering common ground for innovation, business development, and cultural exchange.

Looking ahead, major global events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles will create unique opportunities for NAF SoCal to host gatherings, fundraisers, and programs that connect Dutch athletes, businesses, and cultural leaders with the Southern California community. With active programming in Los Angeles and San Diego, and growing opportunities in Orange County — home to leading businesses, startups, and a strong Dutch American community, as well as the Dutch School of Southern California — the Chapter is well positioned to expand future NAF initiatives across the region.