Throughout my engagement with you, expect many questions

Most of the time working with you I will be listening, so that I can make true sense of the situation at stake. I love asking questions, particularly the uncomfortable ones or to colleagues who normally stay silent.

Expect me to do extensive desk- and if need be, field research to inform my work. 

Learning is the norm

Whilst as being Dutch I carry an innate directness, I am actually better known for my empathy and listening skills. Creating space is the first step towards unlocking things that are stuck. The second step is establishing a climate where learning is not just accepted, but the norm. I believe that the best solutions are born in rooms where people can speak freely.

Care about accountability

As a long-term civil society activist I care about accountability. For social change to matter, we need to be clear on whose behalf we are speaking. This is as important as it is to be clear about where we are heading. Once there is agreement on the direction, we need to make sure to stay on track.

Working together with others

Change comes when we work together with others. This is true for me as consultant, as I cannot do my work alone. But it is also true for civil society organisations. I believe that we are at our best when we can have open conversations about our successes and learning. It creates trust and solidarity.

Working in complexity

I love working in complexity: finding your way out a maze is only possible if you first allow yourself to get lost. Becoming comfortable with the uncomfortable allows for a more interesting journey and for more learning. Solutions will arise when we ask the right questions and make place for creative thinking.

Have fun

Last but not least: working on social change can be fun, too! Wellbeing has rightly become a critical ingredient to the mix that our work is. For me an important part of this work is to make sure that we laugh.