ASIAN STUDENTS ASSOCIATION

Inspired by their older sister organisation in Leuven, ASA Antwerp was established in 2021 by students of Asian descent who wanted to combine their social life at the university with their love for Asian culture. On their Instagram and TikTok pages, you get a great taste of all the activities and events ASA organises: from Asian movie nights to workshops at soju bars, casino and board game nights, city trips, and even the ASA Olympics. Both outgoing party people as well as those who enjoy calmer activities are welcome at ASA. “I was just starting my ‘next chapter’ in life and wanted to meet new people, but I don’t drink and I don’t really go clubbing. One of my friends suggested ASA and at my first event I immediately felt at home,” Mobina tells us. “ASA is one of the student associations that doesn’t participate in hazing or any other initiation rituals that could make our members uncomfortable.”

“The first and last events of the year are usually the most spectacular. ASA strives to be inclusive and welcoming to all, so you can really talk to anyone and no one feels left out. At every event, there are people who don’t speak Dutch, so they will be grouped together along with others who don’t mind speaking English,” Mobina explains. “We plan many events together with ASA Leuven, and many students from Ghent, for example, come to our events as they don’t have a similar organisation over there. And even though ASA Antwerp is associated with UAntwerp specifically, students from all campuses and schools in the city are welcome.”

Mobina also gives us a sneak peek at what we can expect from ASA this year: “Some events will be ‘regionally themed’, meaning that they will revolve around specific parts of Asia. Students will meet these cultures and get to know more about their traditions, food and music through fun activities and workshops. Those who visit every region will get a great surprise at our grand gala at the end of the year!” Students who are only in Antwerp for one semester can become members all the same. “With our membership card, you get great benefits and discounts up to fifty percent at our events and at our sponsoring club,” Mobina explains.

Interested in coming to one of ASA’s events? “You can reach us basically anywhere: besides Instagram and TikTok, we also have a Facebook page, an email address and even LinkedIn. All we’re missing is an official telephone number!” Mobina concludes: “ASA’s goal is to connect students with each other through their interest in Asia and to learn about these cultures in a very positive way that everyone can enjoy.”