A new chapter: Founder Josephine Rees shares what’s next for Able Amsterdam
After seven incredible years, I’m writing to share an important update for Able Amsterdam. As of 13 October 2025, Silvia Causin from AmsterdaMobile will take over the management of Able Amsterdam. This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, as Able Amsterdam will join with AmsterdaMobile and Accessible Travel Netherlands under Silvia’s leadership.
As many of you know, I founded Able Amsterdam in 2018 after a life-changing traffic accident at the age of 23 shattered my right leg and led me to use a wheelchair for three years. Overnight, I was suddenly faced with the daily challenges of navigating the world in a completely new way, and quickly realised how scarce and unreliable wheelchair accessibility information was. I'm a firm believer in turning the negative into something positive, and my accident was no exception. Without hesitation, I took up the challenge and set up Able Amsterdam, determined to make things easier for others by highlighting everything accessible this vibrant city has to offer.
During years of accident recovery, surgeries and setbacks, Able Amsterdam gave me a sense of purpose. The website enabled me to help thousands of visitors each month and brought me countless rewarding experiences and opportunities. I became a Rollz International ambassador; partnered with the Grachtenmuseum Amsterdam; wrote accessibility articles for I amsterdam; presented my Master's research at the UD2024 conference in Oslo, Norway; was chosen to participate in a Google Marketing Bootcamp; was interviewed by the BBC World Service; featured on the Lonely Planet website; and so much more. I’ve explored much of Amsterdam (and beyond), advocated for wheelchair accessibility, and met some amazing people along the way.
As I begin a new professional chapter in October, I feel this is the right moment to pass on Able Amsterdam to someone who can continue expanding its mission of sharing vital accessibility information. With Silvia’s strong background and dedication to inclusive travel, I’m confident Able Amsterdam is in excellent hands and will continue to thrive.
Cheers to a new chapter, and thank you to everyone for all your support over the years!
All the best,
Josephine Rees
Able Amsterdam Founder
