Sweet Treats: Behind the Stroopwafel stand fueling delegates at THIMUN

By Ethan Chan

Photography by Lilly Tourville

Stroopwafels are a classic Dutch delicacy, and it is a yearly THIMUN tradition to pick up a freshly made one at the stand near the entrance of the World Forum. After tiring committee sessions and fierce debates, every delegate needs that injection of sugar, and there is no better way to scratch that itch than the smooth caramels mixed with crunchy bites of a fresh waffle, topped off perfectly with the satisfying warmth of a stroopwafel! Here at MUNITY, we bring the exclusive story of the trials and tribulations of the guys and gals manning the stroopwafel stand at this year’s conference, putting the sweet tooth of many hungry delegates to rest. 

Starting as a maker of Poffertjes, a doughy Dutch snack akin to pancake balls, 11 years ago, Gino Groenewegen has since expanded his expertise to stroopwafels, now running a successful catering company, GroeneBergen Catering. The endless line alone proves that there is no lack of patronage for the snack stand! Gino has been running the Stroopwaffel stand at the World Forum for two years now for many events, including weddings and public events, that his catering company can supply for, bringing classic Dutch snacks, and smiles, to a multitude of events in the Hague.

At THIMUN in the Hague, Gino says there is no shortage of special political figures patronising his stand here at the World Forum, with the mayor of the Hague and members of NATO, amongst other special guests, adding to the variety amongst the endless lines of delegates, chairs and admins that he meets everyday, all craving some of his delicious Stroopwaffles and Poffertjes. 

So with a job equal parts delicious, equal parts unique, what does Gino love most about his job? He says it is making people happy, whether it be preparing a buffet for international diplomats or serving up piping hot Dutch classics to high schoolers, and where his food goes, there is no shortage of smiles to boot, and that is what empowers him through every single day. Surely, everybody can attest that  there is no better food to have in the Netherlands than a warm stroopwafel, and there is no better place to find a delicious piece of caramel crammed waffle than Gino’s stand!