As the daughter of an architect, I learned at an early age to look at our environment with care and attention. My practical approach and the urge to create led me to study architecture in Eindhoven. During my studies, my interest in architecture shifted more and more to a fascination with the building and development process. I wanted to understand and optimize the process from concept to realization, but always with an eye on the existing social context. This is where my passion for developing sustainable cities came from and drives me in my work as a real estate developer. For example, I am working with various stakeholders on the Merwede project. A district of the future where 6000 new homes will be built with ambitious goals in terms of mobility, energy, climate adaptation and affordability.
In addition to my work as a developer, I have the ambition to become a commissioner of a housing company in order to broaden my horizons and increase my impact in society. Thanks to the Marina van Damme scholarship, I was able to follow the training program for commissioners at the Erasmus University. This training provides me with the necessary knowledge and experience to actually take this step.
For me, the Marina van Damme Scholarship is much more than just financial support. It gives me credibility to break down gender and age stereotypes on boards. It gives me the opportunity to connect with role models and to become a role model myself. Finally, it provides access to networks where we can share experiences, learn from each other, and inspire and motivate each other.
In short, I am ready to combine my passion and profession with my work as a developer to become a commissioner of a housing company and make a positive contribution to the development of even more sustainable cities.