photo: Karl Gabor

15 inspiring years with Berättarministeriet

After 15 years of unwavering suport and shared joy through the written word, The Robert Weil Family Foundation has decided to end its partnership with Berättarministeriet (Ministry of Storytelling). The decision to part is grounded in the fact that Berättarministeriet today has grown into a nationwide organisation that stands firmly on its own two feet with a rich variety of funders, not least from public institutions. 

In the fall of 2009 a group of people, all deeply concerned about the rampant polarisation in society, gathered at Proventus office in Stockholm. They discussed the growing income gaps, unemployment, and how children that grow up in a socially disadvantaged environment are affected by these aspects. Drawing inspiration from the American movement 826 National, founded by the writer Dave Eggers, an idea was born to create an organisation in Sweden that could help youngsters to express themselves through the written word. In the year 2025 it is clear that this discussion resulted in something extraordinary.

Berättarministeriet, which we made possible together with Dilsa Demirbag-Sten and Sven Hagströmer, is today a well-established organisation and an important stakeholder in the work to strengthen our democratic society. Starting out in 2011 with an educational centre in Södertälje, Berättarministeriet has expanded with a nationwide programme and centres in Stockholm, Malmö and Gothenburg. The organisation has consistently navigated according to its own clear compass, gradually creating a solid platform that makes a real difference to a great many people, and that will last for the future.

“Our feelings are mixed, it will be sad to see Berättarministeriet head for new adventures without us, but we are also immensely proud of what we have achieved together”, Robert Weil states.

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