New Year, New Faces: Barbara Sarafian Reopens Her Student House in Ghent

The quirkiest house mom in the country is back. In the second season of the VTM show Kotmadam Sarafian, Barbara Sarafian once again opens the doors of her student house in Ghent to take seven new students under her wing for an entire academic year. Armed with her rich life experience, sharp wit, and warm personality, Barbara lives alongside them for 10 months. From late-night kitchen talks and exam stress to personal hurdles, new independence, and plenty of partying, together they navigate the daily rollercoaster of young adulthood. Will Barbara be the strict mom or a warm confidante? Will the generations clash, or will she find her rhythm among this fresh batch of Gen Z’ers?

“A new season and seven new personalities who each bring their own story. I am very curious to see how they will develop throughout the year in the house. They all have their own challenges and dreams, and that is precisely what makes it so fascinating. I hope to help them on their way, but I suspect they will teach me just as much in return.” Barbara Sarafian

While Barbara is ready for action, who will be sharing the kitchen and hallway with her this year? Meet the seven fresh faces of season two:

Léandro

Léandro, 19, comes from Bruges and is the captain of his local football team. He is starting his second year of Commercial Sciences at Ghent University and is moving into student housing for the very first time. After a difficult first year at university, Léandro is determined to use the structure of the house and the guidance of his new kotmadam, to get his academic track firmly back on rails.

Fauve

The 24-year-old Fauve from De Haan is a true busy bee. When she’s not working as a beach lifeguard, you’ll likely find her babysitting. Having navigated a bumpy academic path with several previous attempts, she remains determined to earn her degree. This year, she enters her second year of Social Work at Artevelde University of Applied Sciences with fresh energy and motivation.

Farzad

Farzad, 24, traded his familiar Antwerp for student life at Ghent University, where he is in his final year of Urban Planning. As the eldest of the house, he is still figuring out what comes next: stepping into the job market or continuing his studies for another year. One thing is certain: Farzad never misses an internet trend and is always up to speed on the latest gossip.

Eléa

The cheerful 22-year-old Eléa comes from Ertvelde in East Flanders and is living on kot for the first time. She is studying Occupational Therapy at Artevelde University of Applied Sciences and is eager to prove she can stand on her own two feet. Eléa sets high standards for herself both personally and academically, which means study stress can occasionally get the better of her.

Maxim

Maxim, 21, from Pajottegem, is a true bon vivant who believes there is more to life than just studying. An enthusiastic amateur actor, he always knows how to entertain the group. Maxim is entering his second year of a Communication bachelor’s program at Artevelde University of Applied Sciences, determined to strike the right balance between his lively social life and his coursework.

Stefan

Stefan fled Ukraine three years ago alongside his mother and sister. At 18, he is the youngest of the group, but his ambition matches anyone in the house: he is determined to become a film director. In September, he kicks off his first year in the film program at the prestigious KASK school of arts, ready to tackle a demanding and creative curriculum.

Farah

Farah, 20, comes from Merchtem and has a clear goal in mind: becoming a primary school teacher. Outside of class, she is a vibrant partygoer who brings energy to any room, usually balancing fun with her responsibilities effortlessly. Starting her final bachelor's year at HoGent, Farah faces a demanding year to bring her studies across the finish line.

Kotmadam Sarafian 2, starting Tuesday, September 1st, airing every Tuesday and Thursday at 20:35 on VTM and available on VTM GO.