Ira is a one-of-a-kind human of The Hague, colourful, joyful, and unapologetically herself. At 75, she embodies the city’s spirit: creative, open, and full of life. When she walks into a room, her vibrant clothing instantly catches the eye, a mix of bold colours and textures that seem to mirror her personality perfectly. For this first edition of Humans of The Hague, we had the pleasure of meeting her. She arrived in her mobility scooter, which she affectionately calls her Bentley, and introduced her bright red walker with a grin: “That’s my Ferrari.” In that moment, it was clear: we want to know more about her! 

Who is Ira?

I was born in The Hague, in the Zeeheldenkwartier, and I’ve lived near the Haagse Bos for the past twenty-five years. And I’m not planning to leave, not ever. I’m retired now, but I love being out and about. I spend my days at cafés, museums, and small boutiques, simply enjoying life and everything this city has to offer.

Even at sixteen, I wanted to do things differently, not to be seen, but to be free. I’ve never been much of a group person; I like to move through life in my own rhythm. I try to stay positive. I feel rich, not in money, but in life itself. Happiness comes from within. You don’t need much to feel content. Give me a good cup of coffee, and I’m grateful.

Fashion has always been my passion. My mother was a seamstress and made all my clothes when I was young, that’s where it all began. I’ve always cared about what I wear; I’m drawn to pieces by unique designers and love discovering small boutiques with personality. Art has that same pull for me. With my museum card, I visit exhibitions and galleries whenever I can. What inspires me about artists and creatives is the way they see the world, from unexpected angles, never confined by the lines. That’s how I like to live too.

The Hague as her home

This city is my home. I was born here, and I’ll stay here. There’s so much to enjoy, culture, events, museums, and so much green. And of course, the sea. That makes The Hague special. It’s also become more multicultural than it used to be, which I really like. You meet people from all kinds of backgrounds, try different cuisines, and learn from each other. It’s beautiful.

The Hague used to be a little stiff, with all the ministries. But that’s changed. There’s so much more going on now, festivals, art, food events on the Lange Voorhout. The city became livelier, and so did I. It made it easier to move around, to meet people, to enjoy life here. A positive change.

Her safe space

A special place for me in The Hague is Paviljoen Malieveld. The people who work there are so kind, they always help me and I’m always welcome. I’ve even volunteered there during events like the CPC Run, Veteran’s Day, and others, helping to clear tables and lend a hand wherever needed. Everyone comes there, even the royal family once had poffertjes there with the children, and you often see ministers dropping by. Yet despite all that, it’s stayed completely authentic, a true family-owned place with a warm heart.

One of her favourite memories

Once, I was walking past Zandvliet and a group of teenagers saw me. One of them said to the other, ‘Now that’s a cool grandma, I wish she were my grandma.’ Isn’t that wonderful? Those are the moments that mean the most to me.

Words to live by

What I wish for most is more acceptance. Don’t judge too quickly, you never know someone’s story, and everyone carries something with them. Try to stay open, to understand. And above all, enjoy life. Living is about learning and choosing; every choice teaches you something, and that lesson shapes the next one. It’s a continuous loop, always moving. That’s what life is, never static, but full of moments that shape who you are.