I might sound funny when I tell you that a cup of coffee changed my life! Why? While I was standing in a café in Amsterdam, I saw a flyer which said:

"10% of all Amsterdammers are lonely".

I was shocked. I tried to ignore what I've just read. But I couldn't. After one year of researching and diving into loneliness statistics I decided to act.
I studied Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Amsterdam. I am from Germany, 26 years old.
After finishing my Masters Degree, I had the choice between a "normal job" and what I am doing now: fighting loneliness with SAM. To be honest, it was never a real choice for me. It might sound cheesy, but I do want to contribute to a better world. I am doing everything I can to make SAM happen.

I want to reduce loneliness for at least 2%.

So you might ask yourself: who is SAM?

SAM will be a mobile app with the aim to reduce loneliness. SAM comes from the Dutch word "samen", which means together. Loneliness is primarily a feeling, which can significantly be improved by spending time with others.

We are providing an effective solution to loneliness by facilitating meaningful social contact. People of all nationalities, social backgrounds and age groups should have the chance to do what they like most, easily connect with others, wherever they are and whenever they want to.

Furthermore, our SAM Guide helps people to overcome social insecurities and social anxiety. We will develop the SAM Guide with researchers, psychotherapists and with people who have experienced longterm loneliness. Together with the SAM Guide we want to help people connect with social life in a beautiful, easy and most effective way. We are building a community of SAMMERS, we create awareness and break the taboo.

We are including local partners like cafés, restaurants or sport clubs, who join our mission to reduce loneliness. We are not just an app but growing a SAM community, starting in Amsterdam.

SAM is made by and for people.