I have went to school at no less than thirteen different schools; at almost all of those schools/educational facilities I was eventually expelled. This has led to considerable school trauma, so I see my commitment to education not as a choice, but as a moral duty. I know how painful it can be when the system fails, and I don't allow anyone to. I am now a real dossier eater: you can wake me up in the middle of the night to provide critical commentary on complex policies.

I love to talk to anyone involved in education. I get the most pleasure from discussions with people with whom I fundamentally disagree. Not for nothing I often say: “without friction no shine” I am regularly invited by schools and regional oganizations where a lot is already going well. That is valuable, but I find that I sometimes lose myself in details. I myself prefer to visit places where my presence is less desirable in the first instance. This is where, in my opinion, the most impact can be made.

I have been involved in this beautiful organization for 5 years and was also 1 of the 3 official founders, as an unpaid board member (treasurer) I deal with the finances of the organization, but in addition I also work for the foundation as a policy advisor. I deal with everything that has to do with, for example, exemptions from compulsory education, symbiosis schemes, absenteeism registration, the new law to reduce school absenteeism, digital distance education and much more. I follow the latest scientific and policy developments in the field of school attendance in the Netherlands, but also internationally. I am active in various networks such as the Knowledge Network school attendance (KNSA) and the international Network for School Attendance (INSA) and also structurally participate in the National absenteeism table, in which I consult every 6 weeks with representatives of all kinds of national educational organizations such as knowledge institutes, industry associations, sector councils, and stakeholdergroups.

I am extremely grateful that I can use my own unpleasant experiences in education today for something so constructive and meaningful. In the past I often felt really worthless and since I am active for this organization I have every day a reason to get out of bed with enthusiasm and for that opportunity I am eternally grateful. I wish everyone would get opportunities like I did, so do you happen to recognize yourself in my story? Do not hesitate to sign up as a volunteer or apply once we have a vacancy open, trust me, you will not regret it!